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B-A in International Relations at Jadavpur University
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is International Relations at Jadavpur University Kolkata?
This International Relations program at Jadavpur University focuses on comprehensive understanding of global politics, economics, and security. It delves into historical contexts, theoretical frameworks, and contemporary issues shaping the international landscape. The program emphasizes critical analysis of foreign policies, international organizations, and global challenges, preparing students for dynamic roles in diplomacy, research, and global affairs, highly relevant in India''''s growing global stature.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in global politics, diplomacy, and international affairs seeking entry into foreign services, think tanks, or international organizations. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like policy analysis or conflict resolution. Aspiring journalists, researchers, and those with a strong analytical bent, often from humanities or social science backgrounds, will find this curriculum enriching and career-defining.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India-specific contexts, including roles in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS) through civil service exams, defense analysis, or international organizations. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Career trajectories involve policy analysis, diplomatic attaché roles, academic research, or positions in multinational corporations'''' global strategy divisions, aligning with various policy and development certifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core IR Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong theoretical foundation in International Relations by thoroughly understanding key theories (e.g., Realism, Liberalism) and historical contexts (e.g., Cold War) from semesters 1 and 2.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, academic journals, online courses (e.g., Coursera''''s ''''International Relations: An Introduction''''), peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical grasp is crucial for advanced analysis, policy formulation, and competitive examinations like UPSC (for Indian Foreign Service).
Develop Academic Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic writing, essay structuring, and citation techniques from the outset. Engage in critical reading of current international affairs to enhance analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
Jadavpur University Library resources, academic writing guides, online news portals (The Hindu, Indian Express, The Economist, Foreign Policy)
Career Connection
Essential for producing well-researched policy briefs, academic papers, and analytical reports in think tanks or government roles.
Engage Actively in Current Global Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Actively follow daily global news, diplomatic developments, and international policy debates, relating them back to theoretical learnings. Participate in discussions and express informed opinions.
Tools & Resources
Daily newspapers, news apps (BBC News, Al Jazeera), international relations podcasts, mock UN simulations, university discussion forums
Career Connection
Builds a robust knowledge base vital for interviews, group discussions, and staying updated in the dynamic field of international relations, especially for civil services.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Foreign Language Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Given the global nature of International Relations, learn or improve proficiency in a foreign language (e.g., French, German, Mandarin, Arabic) relevant to regions of personal or professional interest.
Tools & Resources
Jadavpur University''''s language department courses, Alliance Française, Max Mueller Bhavan, Duolingo, Babbel
Career Connection
Enhances marketability for diplomatic roles, international organizations, and research positions requiring cross-cultural communication.
Seek Relevant Internship Opportunities- (Semester 4-5 (during summer breaks))
Actively look for internships at prominent Indian think tanks (e.g., ORF, IDSA), NGOs, government departments (if available), or UN offices in India during semester breaks.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, organizational websites of think tanks and international bodies
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical exposure, builds professional networks, and can often lead to pre-placement offers or significant experience for future roles.
Participate in Debates and Model UN Simulations- (Semester 3-5)
Hone public speaking, negotiation, and diplomatic skills by actively participating in college debates, Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, and other parliamentary debate simulations.
Tools & Resources
College societies, national/international MUN circuits, public speaking clubs, inter-university competitions
Career Connection
Crucial for roles requiring strong communication, negotiation, and teamwork, such as diplomacy, international advocacy, and public policy.
Advanced Stage
Specialize and Undertake Advanced Research- (Semester 6)
Focus on an area of strong interest (e.g., strategic studies, international law, global economy) through elective choices, advanced projects, and potential dissertation work in the final year.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, specialized academic databases, advanced literature, research methodology workshops, interdisciplinary research groups
Career Connection
Developing deep expertise in a niche area can open doors to specialized research roles, higher studies, and policy advisory positions.
Begin UPSC Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6 (concurrent with academics))
Initiate rigorous preparation for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, especially targeting the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), by focusing on current affairs, general studies, and optional subjects like International Relations.
Tools & Resources
UPSC coaching institutes, online test series, previous year papers, government publications (Yojana, Kurukshetra), dedicated study groups
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for prestigious government roles, offering a clear pathway into Indian diplomacy and public administration.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Actively connect with Jadavpur University International Relations alumni and professionals in the field through alumni events, LinkedIn, and industry seminars to gain insights and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University alumni portal, LinkedIn network, industry conferences and webinars, career fairs
Career Connection
Access to mentorship, job opportunities, and valuable insights into diverse career trajectories in international relations, leveraging the university''''s network.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC1 | ENGLISH | Compulsory (Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course) | 4 | Language and Communication, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Presentation Skills |
| CC1 | INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: AN INTRODUCTION | Core | 6 | Introduction to International Relations, Key Theories in IR, Levels of Analysis, Actors in IR, Major Debates in IR |
| CC2 | HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (1919-1945) | Core | 6 | World War I and its aftermath, League of Nations, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II, Causes and Consequences of WWII |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC2 | ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES | Compulsory (Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course) | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Environmental Ethics and Policies |
| CC3 | THEORIES OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Core | 6 | Realism and Neorealism, Liberalism and Neoliberalism, Marxism and Critical Theories, Constructivism and Post-Structuralism, Feminist Approaches to IR |
| CC4 | HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (1945-1990s) | Core | 6 | Cold War Origins and Dynamics, Bipolarity and Non-Aligned Movement, Détente and Second Cold War, Decolonization and Third World, End of the Cold War and its Impact |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE1 | Generic Elective from other disciplines | Elective (Choice Based) | 6 | |
| CC5 | INTERNATIONAL LAW | Core | 6 | Nature and Sources of International Law, Statehood and Recognition, Jurisdiction and Immunities, Treaties and Diplomatic Relations, International Human Rights Law |
| CC6 | GLOBAL ECONOMY | Core | 6 | Theories of International Political Economy, Trade and Protectionism, International Finance and Monetary Systems, Development and Underdevelopment, Globalization and Inequality |
| CC7 | SECURITY STUDIES | Core | 6 | Concepts of Security (Traditional/Non-Traditional), Arms Control and Disarmament, Causes of Conflict and War, Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding, Human Security |
| SEC1 | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | Elective (Skill Enhancement Course - Choice Based) | 2 | Nature of Social Science Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods (Qualitative/Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE2 | Generic Elective from other disciplines | Elective (Choice Based) | 6 | |
| CC8 | INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS | Core | 6 | Evolution of International Organizations, United Nations System, Regional Organizations (e.g., EU, ASEAN), International Financial Institutions (e.g., IMF, World Bank), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) |
| CC9 | INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY | Core | 6 | Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India''''s Neighbourhood Policy, Look East/Act East Policy |
| CC10 | INTERNATIONAL ETHICS | Core | 6 | Theories of International Ethics, Justice in International Relations, Just War Theory, Humanitarian Intervention, Global Justice and Poverty |
| SEC2 | MEDIA AND INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Elective (Skill Enhancement Course - Choice Based) | 2 | Role of Media in IR, Propaganda and Public Diplomacy, Media and Conflict Reporting, Digital Diplomacy, Global Media Landscape |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC11 | GLOBAL GOVERNANCE | Core | 6 | Concept and Evolution of Global Governance, Actors in Global Governance, Global Challenges and Institutions, International Regimes and Norms, Future of Global Governance |
| CC12 | ISSUES IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Core | 6 | International Terrorism, Climate Change and Environmental Issues, Global Poverty and Development, Pandemics and Global Health Security, Energy Security |
| DSE1 | INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS OF SOUTH ASIA | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - Choice Based) | 6 | Regional Dynamics of South Asia, SAARC and Regional Cooperation, Bilateral Relations within South Asia, Conflict and Peacebuilding in the Region, External Powers in South Asia |
| DSE2 | GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - Choice Based) | 6 | Environmental Regimes and Treaties, Climate Change Politics and Policy, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Justice, Resource Conflicts and Geopolitics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC13 | DIPLOMACY AND FOREIGN POLICY ANALYSIS | Core | 6 | Theories of Foreign Policy, Models of Foreign Policy Decision Making, Forms and Functions of Diplomacy, Public Diplomacy and Digital Diplomacy, Coercive Diplomacy and Bargaining |
| CC14 | CONTEMPORARY CHALLENGES IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Core | 6 | Rise of Multipolarity and Great Power Competition, Cyber Warfare and Information Warfare, Global Health Crises and Governance, Role of Non-State Actors, Refugee Crises and Migration |
| DSE3 | TERRORISM AND COUNTER-TERRORISM | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - Choice Based) | 6 | Definitions and Typologies of Terrorism, Causes and Motivations of Terrorism, Global Terrorist Networks, Counter-Terrorism Strategies (Military, Legal, Diplomatic), State Terrorism and Human Rights |
| DSE4 | GLOBAL HUMAN RIGHTS | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - Choice Based) | 6 | Evolution of Human Rights Norms, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, UN Human Rights System, Regional Human Rights Systems, Challenges to Human Rights Protection |
