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BA-HONS in Political Science at Govt. Aizawl West College
Aizawl, Mizoram
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Govt. Aizawl West College Aizawl?
This BA (Honours) Political Science program at Government Aizawl West College, affiliated with Mizoram University, offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations. It delves deep into Indian political thought, constitutional frameworks, and global dynamics, fostering critical analysis skills. The program is tailored to equip students with a robust understanding of political science relevant to public service and various analytical careers in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideally suited for ambitious fresh graduates from any stream who aspire to careers in civil services (UPSC, MPSC), journalism, policy analysis, or academia. It also attracts individuals deeply passionate about understanding societal structures, public policy, and engaging with socio-political issues in India. The curriculum provides a strong foundation for those seeking to make a tangible impact through informed civic engagement.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can pursue diverse and impactful career paths across India. Opportunities exist in the civil services, policy research institutions, journalism, teaching, and non-governmental organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with significant growth potential in government and public policy consulting. The program cultivates essential skills like critical thinking, research, and communication, highly valued in the Indian job market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core political theories and concepts by participating in class discussions and debating current socio-political issues. Practice critical analysis of news, policy statements, and academic texts. Joining a college debate or literary club will enhance verbal articulation and logical reasoning.
Tools & Resources
Reading classic political philosophy texts, Current affairs magazines (e.g., Frontline), PRS Legislative Research (for policy briefs), College debate society
Career Connection
Develops essential skills for civil services exams, policy analysis, and journalism, where analytical reasoning, articulate expression, and informed opinions are crucial for success.
Master Indian Constitutional and Political Systems- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a thorough understanding of the Indian Constitution, its amendments, key articles, and the country''''s political processes. Utilize commentaries, landmark case studies, and daily news to grasp their real-world application. Create structured notes for easy revision of complex concepts.
Tools & Resources
M. Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, D.D. Basu''''s Introduction to the Constitution of India, Daily national newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Lok Sabha TV/Rajya Sabha TV debates
Career Connection
Crucial for clearing UPSC, MPSC, and other state civil services examinations, and indispensable for careers in law, public administration, or any role related to governance in India.
Cultivate Effective Academic Writing and Research Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss challenging topics, clarify doubts, and prepare for examinations collaboratively. Actively seek feedback on all academic essays and assignments from professors and peers, focusing on structuring arguments and clear, concise expression. Attend workshops on academic writing.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic writing guides (e.g., Purdue OWL), Peer review sessions within study groups, Referencing tools like Zotero or Mendeley
Career Connection
Enhances communication, research, and teamwork skills, which are vital for higher education, competitive exams, and professional roles requiring effective documentation and insightful reporting.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Exposure to Comparative Politics and Public Administration- (Semester 3-5)
Explore political systems, administrative structures, and public policy models across diverse countries, drawing comparisons with India. Analyze case studies of successful and failed public policies, both globally and within India, to understand their underlying principles and impacts.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic & Political Weekly), Comparative Politics textbooks, Government reports on public policy outcomes, International news analysis platforms
Career Connection
Prepares students for roles in international organizations, policy think tanks, and positions requiring a global perspective on governance and an understanding of diverse administrative challenges.
Seek Internships and Field Experience with NGOs/Government Bodies- (Semester 3-5 (during academic breaks or part-time))
Proactively identify and apply for internships with local NGOs, community organizations, district administration offices, or political research groups in Aizawl or Mizoram. This provides hands-on exposure to policy implementation, grassroots issues, and practical aspects of governance.
Tools & Resources
College career guidance cell, Online directories of NGOs in Mizoram/North East India, Local government websites, LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
Builds invaluable practical experience, expands professional networks, and offers insights into the operational realities of public service and social work, significantly boosting post-graduation employability.
Develop Advanced Research and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Undertake independent or group research projects on specific political issues relevant to Mizoram, the North East, or India, culminating in detailed reports. Practice presenting findings clearly, concisely, and engagingly in college seminars, departmental events, or inter-college competitions.
Tools & Resources
University research databases, Statistical data from NSSO, Census of India, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing higher studies, roles in policy analysis, research, and journalism. It enhances capabilities in data interpretation, evidence-based argumentation, and effective dissemination of information.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Preparation for Civil Services and Other Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Dedicate focused time to preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services Exam or the Mizoram Public Service Commission (MPSC) exams, which often require a strong foundation in Political Science and General Studies. Focus on extensive current affairs reading, essay writing, and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Previous years'''' question papers of UPSC/MPSC, Standard General Studies textbooks, Online coaching platforms, Daily reputable newspapers and current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Directly targets highly prestigious and impactful civil service positions in India, offering stable careers in public administration, policy making, and governance at state and national levels.
Specialize through Electives and Pursue Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 6)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with specific career aspirations, such as Human Rights, International Law, or Development Studies. If offered, engage in a dissertation or significant research project on an advanced topic to demonstrate in-depth research capability and critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, Faculty mentors for guidance, University''''s digital and physical library resources, Research methodology guides
Career Connection
Allows for deeper specialization, preparing students for niche roles in policy formulation, advocacy, or advanced academic research, showcasing expertise in a chosen area to potential employers or universities.
Network Actively with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Actively connect with alumni of Government Aizawl West College and Mizoram University who are working in relevant fields (civil services, journalism, academia, NGOs). Attend seminars, webinars, and career fairs to expand professional networks and gain insights into various career paths and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Network, College alumni association platforms, Career guidance cells for expert sessions, Industry-specific online forums and events
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship leads, and job opportunities. A strong professional network is invaluable for career planning, gaining insights into industry trends, and securing placements post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Higher Secondary) in any stream from a recognized board, as per Mizoram University general admission guidelines.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 6 | What is Political Theory?, Approaches to Political Theory, Key Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Power, Political Obligation |
| POLSC-C-2 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core | 6 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Salient Features of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive and Legislature: President, Prime Minister, Parliament, Indian Judiciary |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - 1 | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from various disciplines like Economics, History, Psychology, etc. |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources: Renewable and Non-renewable, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Management and Public Participation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-3 | Political Theory Concepts and Debates | Core | 6 | The State: Nature and Theories, Sovereignty and Citizenship, Democracy: Forms and Theories, Nationalism and Globalization, Gender and Political Theory |
| POLSC-C-4 | Political Process in India | Core | 6 | Parties and Party Systems, Elections and Electoral Process, Caste, Religion and Politics, Regionalism and Language Politics, Social Movements in India |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - 2 | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from various disciplines like Economics, History, Psychology, etc. |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theory of Communication: Types and Modes, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Skills: Comprehension and Analysis, Writing Skills: Report Writing, Official Correspondence, Presentation Skills and Group Discussions |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-5 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 6 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Regimes: Democracies and Authoritarian Regimes, States and Societies: Citizenship, Identity, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Pressure Groups |
| POLSC-C-6 | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core | 6 | Public Administration: Meaning, Nature, Scope and Evolution, Classical Approaches: Scientific Management, Bureaucratic Theory, Human Relations Approach, Decision-Making and Communication, Accountability and Control in Public Administration |
| POLSC-C-7 | Perspectives on International Relations | Core | 6 | International Relations: Meaning, Scope and Evolution, Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Globalization and its Impact |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - 3 | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from various disciplines like Economics, History, Psychology, etc. |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course - 1 | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Topics vary based on chosen skill-based elective, e.g., Conflict and Peace Building, Public Opinion and Survey Research. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-8 | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core | 6 | Theories of Constitutionalism, Federalism and its Variants, Legislature, Executive, and Judiciary in comparative perspective, Party Systems and Electoral Systems (comparative), Civil Society and State |
| POLSC-C-9 | Public Policy and Administration in India | Core | 6 | Public Policy: Meaning, Theories and Models, Processes of Public Policy Making in India, Decentralization: Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Governance, Budgeting and Financial Administration, Good Governance and E-governance |
| POLSC-C-10 | Global Politics | Core | 6 | International System and Global Actors, Traditional and Non-Traditional Security, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention, Global Environmental Issues, International Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - 4 | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen elective from various disciplines like Economics, History, Psychology, etc. |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course - 2 | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Topics vary based on chosen skill-based elective, e.g., Legislative Practices and Procedures, Understanding the Election Process. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-11 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, Hobbes: State of Nature, Social Contract, Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| POLSC-C-12 | Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 6 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Kautilya (Arthashastra), Dharma, Medieval Indian Political Thought: Barani, Abul Fazl, Modern Indian Political Thought: Raja Rammohan Roy, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Political Thought of Jyotiba Phule |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - 1 | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen specialization elective, e.g., Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective, Feminist Political Thought. |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - 2 | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen specialization elective, e.g., India''''s Foreign Policy, Understanding Globalisation. |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-C-13 | Modern Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Hegel: State and Freedom, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Antonio Gramsci: Hegemony, State and Civil Society, Hannah Arendt: Totalitarianism, Public and Private Realm |
| POLSC-C-14 | Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 6 | V.D. Savarkar: Hindutva, B.R. Ambedkar: Annihilation of Caste, State Socialism, Jawaharlal Nehru: Democratic Socialism, Non-alignment, Jayaprakash Narayan: Total Revolution, Deendayal Upadhyaya: Integral Humanism |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - 3 | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen specialization elective, e.g., Human Rights, United Nations and Global Conflicts. |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - 4 | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics vary based on chosen specialization elective, e.g., Development Process and Social Movements, Contemporary Political Issues. |
