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MA in Political Science at Government Kalidas Girls College, Ujjain
Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government Kalidas Girls College, Ujjain Ujjain?
This MA Political Science program at Government Kalidas Girls College, Ujjain, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and contemporary issues. It delves into Indian politics, international relations, and public administration, equipping students with critical analytical skills relevant to India''''s evolving socio-political landscape and its role on the global stage. The program emphasizes an in-depth study of governance, policy-making, and political thought.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Political Science, History, Economics, or Sociology seeking entry into civil services, journalism, or public policy roles. It also suits working professionals from government or non-profit sectors looking to upskill in policy analysis, and individuals transitioning into research or academic careers who require a strong theoretical and practical foundation in political science.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, journalism, think tanks, and NGOs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in academic research and teaching. The curriculum''''s focus on policy and governance prepares students for impactful roles in public life and administration.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to understanding foundational political theories (e.g., liberalism, socialism, realism) and key concepts (state, sovereignty, justice). Form study groups to discuss complex ideas and use online resources like Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy for deeper insights. This solidifies your analytical base for higher semesters.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), JSTOR (for academic articles), Study groups, peer discussions
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for cracking civil services exams and for effective policy analysis roles, enabling you to articulate and defend arguments clearly.
Develop Strong Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and proper academic citation. Attend university workshops on research methodology and ethics. Practice structuring arguments logically and backing them with evidence from credible sources. This lays the groundwork for dissertation and advanced research.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), Grammarly (for proofreading), University library resources, research methodology textbooks
Career Connection
Excellent writing skills are indispensable for report generation, policy briefs, and academic publications, vital for roles in think tanks, NGOs, and journalism.
Engage with Current Indian Political Affairs Actively- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines (e.g., Frontline, Economic and Political Weekly), and watch unbiased news debates. Connect classroom theories to real-world political developments in India. Participate in college debates or discussions on contemporary issues.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu newspaper, Indian Express newspaper, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Rajya Sabha TV debates
Career Connection
Staying updated is critical for civil services aspirants, journalists, and policy professionals. It enhances your ability to understand, critique, and contribute to public discourse.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Internships in Governance or NGOs- (Semester 2-3 breaks, or during Semester 3)
Seek internships with local government bodies (e.g., municipal corporations, district administration), state political parties, NGOs focusing on social issues, or research organizations. Gain practical exposure to policy implementation, grassroots political work, or data collection in an Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO directories (e.g., GuideStar India), College placement cell
Career Connection
Practical experience significantly boosts your resume for civil services interviews, think tank positions, and development sector jobs. It helps build a professional network.
Participate in National Level Debates and Model UN- (Semester 2-3)
Join college clubs focused on debates, Model United Nations (MUN), or parliamentary affairs. Actively participate in inter-collegiate and national competitions. This sharpens your public speaking, negotiation, and diplomatic skills, crucial for understanding complex political scenarios.
Tools & Resources
MUN societies in college, National debate circuits, News articles on international affairs
Career Connection
These experiences are highly valued in roles requiring strong communication, diplomacy, and analytical thinking, such as foreign service, public relations, and international organizations.
Start Preparing for Competitive Examinations (Civil Services)- (Semester 2-3)
If aspiring for civil services (UPSC, MPSC, etc.), begin preliminary preparation alongside your MA. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and optional subjects (Political Science and International Relations) from your syllabus. Consider joining a coaching institute or online platform for guidance.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/MPSC syllabus, Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s for IAS)
Career Connection
Early and consistent preparation for civil services significantly increases your chances of securing prestigious government positions, offering a stable and impactful career path.
Advanced Stage
Complete a Research-Oriented Dissertation Project- (Semester 4)
Undertake a robust dissertation on a contemporary political issue in India. Focus on original research, data collection (fieldwork if possible), rigorous analysis, and academic writing. Seek guidance from faculty mentors regularly to ensure high-quality output.
Tools & Resources
Research journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for quantitative data), Plagiarism checker tools
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases advanced research capabilities, making you highly suitable for academic roles, think tanks, and policy research organizations.
Network with Faculty and Political Science Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the department or university. Engage with faculty for career advice and potential research collaborations. Connect with alumni and professionals in political science through LinkedIn or professional associations in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Departmental seminars, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and collaborative projects, helping you navigate career paths in a competitive Indian job market.
Refine Interview Skills and Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Participate in mock interviews, especially for civil services or specific job roles. Prepare a portfolio of your best academic papers, research projects, and internship reports. Focus on articulating your skills, knowledge, and career aspirations clearly and confidently.
Tools & Resources
Career guidance cells, Mock interview platforms, Well-organized digital portfolio
Career Connection
Effective interview skills and a strong portfolio are critical for securing coveted positions in government, academia, or the private sector post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree with Political Science as a major, minor, or elective subject from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Liberty, Equality, Justice, and Rights, Democracy and Citizenship, Power and Authority |
| MAPS102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought, Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru), Ideas of Nationalism and Social Reform, Dharma and Rajdharma |
| MAPS103 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems and Regimes, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties |
| MAPS104 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration, Bureaucracy and Public Policy, Financial Administration and Accountability, Personnel Administration and Ethics |
| MAPSFC1A | Human Rights | Foundation Elective | 2 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India (NHRC), Role of NGOs in Human Rights, Human Rights and Global Challenges |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Greek Thinkers (Plato, Aristotle), Medieval Political Thought (Machiavelli), Social Contract Theories (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill), Marxism and Modern Political Thought |
| MAPS202 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Globalisation and its Impact, International Organizations (UN, SAARC, ASEAN), Conflict, Peace, and Security |
| MAPS203 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Duties, and DPSP, Indian Federalism, Parliamentary System and Judiciary, Electoral Reforms and Political Parties |
| MAPS204 | Research Methodology in Social Sciences | Core | 4 | Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection (Quantitative, Qualitative), Sampling Techniques and Data Analysis, Report Writing and Research Ethics |
| MAPSSE1A | Gender and Politics | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | Concepts of Patriarchy and Feminism, Gender and Political Participation, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender Budgeting and Policies, Challenges to Gender Equality |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Participation and Elite Theories, Caste, Class, and Tribe in Indian Politics, Social Movements and their Impact, State and Civil Society |
| MAPS302 | Modern Indian Political Thought (Selected Thinkers) | Core | 4 | Selected Thinkers (e.g., Savarkar, Lohia, Deendayal Upadhyaya), Nationalism and Anti-Colonial Thought, Secularism and Communalism in India, Gandhianism and Socialism, Contemporary Debates in Indian Politics |
| MAPS303 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, Recognition and State Responsibility, United Nations System and its Organs, International Court of Justice, Humanitarian Law and Intervention |
| MAPS304 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Evolution of Non-Alignment, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka), Look East/Act East Policy and India''''s Global Role |
| MAPSFC2A | Environmental Politics | Foundation Elective | 2 | Concept of Environmental Politics, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Global Governance, Sustainable Development Goals, India''''s Environmental Policies and Challenges |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401 | Local Self Government in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Self-Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Structure and Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| MAPS402 | Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 4 | Globalisation and its Political Impact, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism, Identity Politics and Regionalism, Good Governance and E-Governance, Democratization and Political Development |
| MAPS403 | Politics of Developing Countries | Core | 4 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Challenges of Post-Colonial States, Role of Military in Politics, Democratization Processes, State and Society in Developing Countries |
| MAPS404 | Dissertation/Project | Project | 6 | Problem Identification and Research Question, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Analysis, Presentation of Findings, Academic Writing and Referencing |
| MAPSSE2A | Election Studies in India | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | Indian Electoral System, Role of Election Commission of India, Voting Behaviour and Public Opinion, Role of Money, Media, and Technology in Elections, Electoral Reforms and Challenges |
