.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-A in Economics Sociology Political Science Esp at ISBC College of Arts, Science and Commerce
Bengaluru, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Economics, Sociology, Political Science (ESP) at ISBC College of Arts, Science and Commerce Bengaluru?
This B.A. program with a specialization in Economics, Sociology, and Political Science (ESP) at ISBC College, affiliated with Bengaluru City University, offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding societal structures, economic principles, and governance. The curriculum aligns with the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on developing critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to India''''s dynamic socio-economic and political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, public policy, social research, or journalism. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of societal dynamics for roles in NGOs, CSR, or government organizations. Aspiring academicians and those interested in a holistic liberal arts foundation for advanced studies will find this specialization beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as policy analysts, social workers, economists, researchers, journalists, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The interdisciplinary knowledge fosters versatility, enabling graduates to adapt to various sectors and contribute effectively to India''''s development and governance challenges.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts and Interconnections- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational concepts in Economics, Sociology, and Political Science. Focus on identifying how these disciplines intersect, for example, how economic policies (Economics) impact social structures (Sociology) and are shaped by government decisions (Political Science). Use mind maps and conceptual diagrams to visualize these linkages.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks for Grades 11-12 (for foundational clarity), Khan Academy for basic economics, Online academic journals (JSTOR through college library portal for broad understanding)
Career Connection
A strong grasp of interdisciplinary fundamentals is crucial for passing competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services or state PSCs, which test integrated knowledge of social sciences. It also builds analytical capabilities for entry-level research roles.
Develop Strong Academic Writing and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice academic writing, focusing on essay structure, argumentation, and evidence-based analysis. Participate actively in classroom discussions and student seminars to enhance verbal communication skills. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine your writing and presentation abilities.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL for writing style guides, Grammarly for proofreading, College debate clubs or Toastmasters (if available)
Career Connection
Effective communication is paramount for any role, from report writing in NGOs to presenting policy recommendations in government. Clear articulation of ideas is highly valued in both academic and professional settings in India.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss difficult topics, prepare for exams, and share different perspectives on socio-political and economic issues. Teach concepts to each other to solidify understanding and identify knowledge gaps. Collaborate on projects and presentations to learn teamwork dynamics.
Tools & Resources
Google Docs for collaborative notes, WhatsApp groups for quick discussions, College library common study areas
Career Connection
Collaborative skills are highly sought after in professional environments in India, especially in research teams, policy formulation bodies, and development organizations. Peer learning also builds a valuable academic network.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge through Case Studies and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world Indian case studies. Work on research projects or assignments that require analyzing contemporary economic challenges, social movements, or political developments in India. Participate in college-level research competitions or essay contests.
Tools & Resources
EPW (Economic & Political Weekly) for current affairs and analysis, PRS Legislative Research for policy briefs, Datasets from NSSO, RBI, Census of India
Career Connection
This practical application prepares students for roles in policy analysis, think tanks, and social impact organizations where understanding Indian context and proposing solutions is key. It also strengthens research portfolios for postgraduate admissions.
Gain Industry Exposure through Internships and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internships with local NGOs, government departments (e.g., district administration, urban local bodies), small research firms, or social enterprises during semester breaks. Attend workshops and seminars on public policy, data analysis for social sciences, or development studies organized by the college or external bodies.
Tools & Resources
Internshala for internship searches, LinkedIn for networking with professionals, College career services for guidance
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical experience, build professional networks in India, and often lead to pre-placement offers. They bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations, making graduates more job-ready.
Develop Quantitative and Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Complement your theoretical learning with robust quantitative and analytical skills. Enroll in skill enhancement courses (SEC) related to data analysis, basic statistics, or economic modeling. Utilize software like Excel or R (for beginners) to analyze social and economic data.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX courses on ''''Introduction to Data Analysis'''', NPTEL lectures on Statistics for Social Sciences, MS Excel tutorials
Career Connection
Analytical skills are critical for roles in economic research, market analysis, survey design, and policy evaluation in both government and private sectors in India, offering a distinct edge in the job market.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
In your final year, choose a research topic that deeply interests you within ESP and undertake a comprehensive project or dissertation. This involves extensive literature review, data collection (primary or secondary), rigorous analysis, and academic writing. Present your findings at college-level conferences.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar for research papers, SPSS/R/Python (basic) for advanced data analysis, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A strong research project is a major asset for postgraduate applications (MA, PhD) and for entry-level research positions in think tanks, universities, or international development organizations in India and abroad.
Focus on Specialization for Career Readiness- (Semester 6)
Deepen your knowledge in specific sub-fields of Economics, Sociology, or Political Science that align with your career aspirations. For instance, if interested in public policy, focus on related electives and research topics. Network with professionals in your chosen field and attend their talks/webinars.
Tools & Resources
Professional bodies like Indian Economic Association, Indian Sociological Society, Industry-specific webinars on platforms like Zoom/Google Meet, Mentor networking via LinkedIn
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for targeted roles in areas like development economics, urban sociology, or international relations, which are high-demand fields in India.
Engage in Comprehensive Placement and Competitive Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in campus placement drives and prepare thoroughly for aptitude tests, group discussions, and personal interviews. Simultaneously, if aspiring for civil services or other government jobs, begin intensive preparation for relevant competitive examinations. Practice mock tests and current affairs discussions.
Tools & Resources
Online aptitude test platforms, Current affairs magazines (e.g., The Hindu, Yojana), Coaching centers for competitive exams (if opted for)
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation directly impacts placement success and performance in highly competitive examinations, opening doors to esteemed careers in India''''s public and private sectors, including prestigious government roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in PUC/12th standard or equivalent examination from a recognized board
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters (Option to exit) or 4 Years / 8 Semesters (Honours)
Credits: 140 (for 3-year BA Major) or 180 (for 4-year BA Honours) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC101 | Microeconomics - I | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Basic Economic Problems, Demand and Supply Analysis, Consumer Behaviour, Production and Cost, Market Structures |
| BASO101 | Introduction to Sociology | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts of Sociology, Social Institutions, Socialization and Culture, Social Control and Deviance |
| BAPS101 | Introduction to Political Science | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, State and Sovereignty, Power and Authority, Liberty and Equality, Rights and Justice |
| BA-L101 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada/Hindi) | Language | 3 | Prose and Poetry, Grammar and Composition, Functional Language, Literary History, Cultural Context |
| BA-E101 | English Language | Language | 3 | Reading Comprehension, Grammar and Usage, Writing Skills, Communication Strategies, Literary Texts |
| BA-AECC101 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory | 2 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and Environment, Environmental Protection |
| BA-VAC101 | Digital Fluency | Value Added Course | 1 | Computer Fundamentals, Internet and Web Browsing, Cyber Security Basics, Digital Tools for Productivity, Online Communication Etiquette |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC201 | Microeconomics - II | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Factor Pricing Theories, Welfare Economics, General Equilibrium Theory, Market Failures and Externalities, Public Goods and Asymmetric Information |
| BASO201 | Indian Society: Structure and Change | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Features of Indian Society, Caste System and its Dynamics, Family, Marriage, Kinship in India, Rural-Urban Linkages, Social Change Processes in India |
| BAPS201 | Political Concepts and Theories | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Meaning of Justice, Theories of Rights, Dimensions of Democracy, Nationalism and Globalization, Liberalism, Marxism, and Anarchism |
| BA-L201 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada/Hindi) | Language | 3 | Advanced Prose and Poetry, Applied Grammar, Translation Skills, Literary Criticism, Regional Literature |
| BA-E201 | English Language | Language | 3 | Advanced Reading Techniques, Vocabulary Building, Formal and Informal Writing, Public Speaking Skills, Critical Analysis of Texts |
| BA-AECC201 | Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory | 2 | Preamble and Basic Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Structure and Functions of Government, Federalism and Amendments |
| BA-VAC201 | Health & Wellness, Yoga, Sports | Value Added Course | 1 | Physical Health, Mental Wellness, Basic Yoga Practices, Importance of Sports, Healthy Lifestyle Choices |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC301 | Macroeconomics - I | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | National Income Accounting, Classical Theory of Employment, Keynesian Theory of Employment, Consumption and Investment Functions, Money and Banking |
| BASO301 | Sociological Thinkers - I | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Herbert Spencer: Social Evolution, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Suicide, Karl Marx: Class Conflict, Capitalism, Max Weber: Ideal Types, Authority |
| BAPS301 | Western Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Power, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government |
| BA-L301 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada/Hindi) | Language | 3 | Advanced Literary Studies, Functional Grammar, Creative Writing, Cultural Readings, Language in Media |
| BA-E301 | English Language | Language | 3 | Academic Writing, Presentation Skills, Report Writing, Intercultural Communication, Introduction to Literature |
| BA-SEC301 | Data Analysis for Social Sciences | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Introduction to Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Data Visualization, Introduction to Software Tools (e.g., Excel), Interpretation of Social Data |
| BA-OEC301 | Open Elective - I | Open Elective | 3 | Interdisciplinary Topics, Introduction to Other Disciplines, Skill-Oriented Courses, General Knowledge Enhancement, Contemporary Issues |
| BA-VAC301 | Art of Happiness | Value Added Course | 1 | Concept of Happiness, Positive Psychology, Mindfulness Practices, Stress Management, Well-being and Life Satisfaction |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC401 | Macroeconomics - II | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Business Cycles, Inflation and Deflation, Fiscal Policy, Monetary Policy, International Economics (Basics) |
| BASO401 | Sociological Thinkers - II | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Talcott Parsons: Structural Functionalism, Robert Merton: Middle-Range Theory, G.H. Mead: Symbolic Interactionism, Erving Goffman: Dramaturgy, Feminist Sociological Perspectives |
| BAPS401 | Indian Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya), Medieval Political Thought, Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Liberalism, Mahatma Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Dalit Empowerment |
| BA-L401 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada/Hindi) | Language | 3 | Regional Literary Movements, Advanced Grammar and Syntax, Public Discourse Analysis, Professional Communication in MIL, Adaptation and Translation |
| BA-E401 | English Language | Language | 3 | Business Communication, Creative Writing, Media and Communication, Critical Thinking Skills, Introduction to Literary Theory |
| BA-SEC401 | Personality Development & Leadership Skills | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Self-Awareness, Communication Skills, Teamwork and Collaboration, Problem-Solving, Leadership Qualities |
| BA-OEC401 | Open Elective - II | Open Elective | 3 | Contemporary Global Issues, Art and Culture Appreciation, Introduction to Ethics, Basic Computing Skills, Entrepreneurial Mindset |
| BA-VAC401 | Jeevana Kaushalya (Life Skills) | Value Added Course | 1 | Stress Management, Time Management, Goal Setting, Financial Literacy Basics, Emotional Intelligence |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC501 | Development Economics | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Concepts of Economic Development, Theories of Underdevelopment, Poverty and Inequality, Population and Human Capital, Role of State in Development |
| BAEC502 | Indian Economy - I | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Features of Indian Economy, Economic Reforms since 1991, Agriculture Sector in India, Industrial Sector Growth, Service Sector Contribution |
| BASO501 | Social Research Methods | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature of Social Research, Research Design Types, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis |
| BASO502 | Social Problems in India | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Poverty and Unemployment, Corruption and Crime, Environmental Issues in India, Caste and Gender Discrimination, Youth Unrest and Drug Abuse |
| BAPS501 | Comparative Government and Politics | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Party Systems, Pressure Groups and Social Movements |
| BAPS502 | Public Administration | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration, Bureaucracy and its Role, Financial Administration, Personnel Administration |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAEC601 | Quantitative Methods for Economics | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Basic Statistics in Economics, Probability and Probability Distributions, Sampling and Estimation, Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis Fundamentals |
| BAEC602 | Indian Economy - II | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Fiscal Policy in India, Monetary Policy and RBI, India''''s External Sector, Planning in India (Historical Context), Current Economic Challenges and Policies |
| BASO601 | Rural and Urban Sociology | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Rural Social Structure, Agrarian Issues and Change, Urbanization and its Impact, Urban Problems and Planning, Rural-Urban Development Strategies |
| BASO602 | Social Demography | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Basic Demographic Concepts, Theories of Population, Population Structure of India, Population Policy and Family Planning, Migration and Urbanization |
| BAPS601 | International Relations | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, WTO), Foreign Policy of Major Powers, Global Challenges and Conflicts |
| BAPS602 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Meaning of Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Methods in Political Science, Report Writing and Ethics |
| BA-PROJ601 | Research Project / Internship | Project | 4 | Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
