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MASTER-OF-ARTS in Political Science at Government P.G. College, Damoh
Damoh, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government P.G. College, Damoh Damoh?
This Political Science program at Gyan Chandra Shrivastava Government Post Graduate College, Damoh, focuses on the intricate dynamics of power, governance, and public policy. It provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and international relations. In the Indian context, this specialization is crucial for comprehending the nation''''s democratic processes, constitutional framework, and its evolving role in global geopolitics, catering to the rising demand for informed policy analysts and public administrators.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking a deeper understanding of political thought, public administration, and international affairs. It also suits working professionals, including those in civil services or NGOs, aiming to enhance their analytical and leadership skills. Individuals aspiring for roles in government, policy research, journalism, or teaching will find this course beneficial, especially those interested in contributing to India''''s governance landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government services (UPSC, PSC), policy think tanks, diplomacy, political consulting, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-15 lakhs. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical abilities, opening avenues for higher education and academic careers, aligning with the demand for skilled human resources in India''''s public sector and civil society.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Knowledge in Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core political theories and thinkers (e.g., Plato, Marx, Gandhi). Focus on understanding their historical context and contemporary relevance in India. Participate in classroom discussions and form study groups to clarify complex concepts.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online open courses (e.g., NPTEL for Political Science), Standard textbooks by Indian authors like O.P. Gauba, Rajeev Bhargava
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for cracking competitive exams (UPSC, PSC) and forming nuanced opinions for roles in policy analysis or journalism.
Enhance Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Develop academic writing proficiency by regularly practicing essay writing, precis writing, and critical analysis of political articles. Pay close attention to citation styles and methodological rigor, especially after studying Research Methodology.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Online academic writing guides, Peer review with classmates, Practice writing answers for previous year''''s competitive exam questions
Career Connection
Crucial for academic success, publication, and report writing in government, think tanks, and research organizations.
Stay Updated with Current Indian Politics & Global Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable news magazines. Follow debates on major policy issues, parliamentary proceedings, and international events, linking them to learned theories.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian news portals, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV, IDSA (Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses) publications, Foreign policy journals
Career Connection
Essential for general knowledge sections in competitive exams, effective participation in group discussions, and staying informed for roles in media or diplomacy.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Comparative Political Analysis- (Semester 3)
Focus on comparing different political systems, electoral models, and governance structures, both within India (e.g., state-level variations) and internationally. Actively discuss and critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various political approaches.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals on comparative politics, Case studies of different political systems, Debates with peers on policy choices
Career Connection
Develops analytical acumen vital for policy advising, diplomatic services, and roles in international organizations.
Develop Specialized Knowledge in an Elective Area- (Semester 3)
Deep dive into the chosen elective (e.g., Development Administration, Electoral Politics). Read extensively beyond the syllabus, engage with research papers, and follow current events related to that specific sub-field of Political Science in India.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals, Books by leading scholars in the elective field, Participation in relevant workshops or webinars, Discussions with faculty mentors
Career Connection
Allows for focused skill development and opens pathways to niche roles in research, advocacy, or specific government departments related to the elective.
Participate in Academic Workshops and Conferences- (Semester 3)
Attend and, if possible, present papers at departmental or inter-collegiate seminars and workshops focused on political science. This builds academic confidence, provides networking opportunities, and exposes students to current research trends.
Tools & Resources
College''''s academic calendar, Notices for university-level events, Local academic associations
Career Connection
Important for those considering higher studies (PhD) or academic careers, and for developing presentation skills for professional settings.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Robust Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Select a relevant, contemporary topic for the MA dissertation/project, ideally with an India-specific focus. Work closely with a supervisor, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present findings professionally.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Statistical software (if applicable), University library resources, Regular consultations with faculty
Career Connection
Demonstrates independent research capability, critical thinking, and written communication skills, highly valued in research, policy, and academic roles.
Prepare Systematically for Competitive Exams (UPSC/PSC)- (Semester 4)
Integrate preparation for major Indian competitive exams (like UPSC Civil Services, State PSCs) into the final semester. Focus on general studies, essay writing, and optionally, Political Science as an optional subject, utilizing the program''''s strong academic foundation.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institute materials (if self-studying), Online test series, Study groups focused on exam preparation
Career Connection
Directly targets entry into prestigious government services, a primary career aspiration for many MA Political Science graduates in India.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 4)
Actively seek out and connect with college alumni who are in government service, academia, journalism, or NGOs. Attend career guidance sessions, alumni meets, and leverage these connections for mentorship and potential career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College alumni association, LinkedIn, Career fairs (if organized by the university), Informational interviews
Career Connection
Provides insights into real-world career paths, potential job leads, and valuable professional guidance for post-graduation transition.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree with minimum 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer candidates)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Liberalism and its various forms, Marxism and Neo-Marxism, Democracy and its theories, Power, Authority and Legitimacy, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice |
| MA-102 | Ancient and Medieval Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Education, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Morality, Statecraft, Locke: Natural Rights, Social Contract, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Concept of Law and Sovereignty in Medieval Thought |
| MA-103 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Duties and Directive Principles, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Parliament: Structure, Functions, Law-making process, Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, Judicial Review, Federalism in India, Electoral System |
| MA-104 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Social Science Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Hypothesis Formulation, Variables, Methods of Data Collection: Survey, Observation, Interview, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Research Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-201 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Jeremy Bentham: Utilitarianism, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, G.W.F. Hegel: State, Dialectics, Freedom, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Hannah Arendt: Totalitarianism, Public & Private Realms, Feminist Political Thought |
| MA-202 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Reforms, Modernity, M.K. Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Sarvodaya, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Caste Annihilation, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism, Jawaharlal Nehru: Secularism, Democracy, Socialism, Swami Vivekananda, Deendayal Upadhyay |
| MA-203 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Scientific Management, Human Relations, Bureaucracy: Max Weber''''s concept, Role of Bureaucracy in India, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Recruitment, Training, Promotion in Civil Services, Good Governance, E-Governance |
| MA-204 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations: Organs, Role and Reforms, Disarmament, Arms Control, Nuclear Proliferation, Regional Organizations: ASEAN, SAARC, EU, Global Terrorism, Human Security |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-301 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics: Systems, Structural-Functional, Political System: Features, Functions, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Electoral Systems: Plurality, Proportional Representation, Federalism, Unitary System, Constitutions |
| MA-302 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Rights of Women, Children, Minorities, Indigenous People, Environmental Rights, Refugee Rights, Human Rights in India: NHRC, SHRC, Human Rights and International Law |
| MA-303 | Government and Politics in Madhya Pradesh | Core | 4 | Formation of Madhya Pradesh, State Reorganization, State Legislature: Vidhan Sabha, Speaker, Committees, State Executive: Governor, Chief Minister, Council of Ministers, State Judiciary: High Court, Subordinate Courts, Local Self Government: Panchayati Raj, Urban Local Bodies, Regionalism, Caste, and Identity Politics in MP |
| MA-304A | Development Administration | Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Development Administration, Theories of Development: Growth, Equity, Sustainable Development, Development Planning in India: NITI Aayog, Rural Development Programs, Urban Development, Role of Bureaucracy in Development, Challenges of Development Administration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-401 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-alignment Movement and its Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers: US, Russia, China, India and Neighboring Countries: SAARC, Nuclear Policy of India, Look East/Act East Policy, India and Global Governance (UN, WTO) |
| MA-402 | Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 4 | Globalisation and its Impact on Politics, Environmentalism, Climate Change and Politics, Identity Politics, Multiculturalism, Social Movements in India, Civil Society, Politics of Caste, Religion and Gender, Challenges to Democracy: Populism, Authoritarianism |
| MA-403B | Electoral Politics in India | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Electoral System in India, Election Commission of India: Role and Powers, Political Parties: National and Regional Parties, Voting Behaviour, Determinants of Voting, Electoral Reforms: Funding, Delimitation, EVMs, Role of Media, Money, and Muscle Power in Elections |
| MA-404 | Project / Dissertation | Project | 8 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Comprehensive Literature Review, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Structured Report Writing, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
