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MA in General at Jugal Kishore Mahavidyalaya, Gowan, Sambhal
Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is General at Jugal Kishore Mahavidyalaya, Gowan, Sambhal Sambhal?
This MA Political Science program at Jugal Kishore Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with MJPRU, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and processes. It delves into both Indian and international political dynamics, critical for navigating the complexities of governance and public life in India. The program emphasizes analytical thinking and research skills, preparing students for diverse roles in policy-making, civil services, and academia.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in humanities or social sciences seeking entry into public policy, civil services, or research. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in political analysis and governance, or career changers transitioning into roles requiring deep political insights. A strong interest in current affairs, societal dynamics, and constitutional principles is a key prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding India-specific career paths such as civil servants, policy analysts, political consultants, journalists, and educators. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in government and private sectors. Growth trajectories in Indian companies and government bodies often involve rising to leadership positions, contributing to nation-building, and aligning with competitive exams like UPSC and State PSCs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core political theories and concepts from the first semester. Utilize college library resources for classic texts and academic journals. Participate actively in classroom discussions and form study groups to clarify complex ideas, ensuring a robust understanding of fundamental political thought.
Tools & Resources
College Library, NCERT Political Science books, JSTOR/Shodhganga (for academic articles)
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for clearing competitive examinations like UPSC and State PSCs, which extensively test conceptual understanding in Political Science.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and basic research skills from the outset. Attend workshops on academic writing and citation provided by the university or college. Practice structuring arguments logically and citing sources correctly in assignments, preparing for advanced research work.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL (for academic writing guidelines), Reference management tools like Zotero or Mendeley
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing and research is essential for higher studies, policy analysis roles, journalism, and any profession requiring analytical reporting and documentation.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs and Policy- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable Indian newspapers, magazines, and watch news debates to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world political events and policy developments in India. Discuss these issues with peers and faculty to gain diverse perspectives and develop informed opinions.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research (for policy briefs), Sansad TV for parliamentary debates
Career Connection
Current affairs knowledge is indispensable for competitive exams, journalism, think tanks, and any career in public service or policy advocacy, especially in the Indian context.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Policy Analysis and Debate- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, debates, and mock parliaments focused on contemporary Indian political and policy issues. Analyze government reports, policy drafts, and provide constructive feedback to develop critical policy evaluation and formulation skills.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Ministry of External Affairs publications, Think tanks like Observer Research Foundation (ORF), Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA)
Career Connection
These skills are vital for roles in policy research, public administration, advocacy, and positions requiring strategic communication and problem-solving within the Indian governance framework.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Local Bodies- (Semester 3-4)
Apply for internships with local non-governmental organizations, municipal corporations, or political consulting firms in India. Gain practical exposure to grassroots governance, social work, and political campaign management, understanding the ground realities of Indian democracy and administration.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites like those of PRS India, Goonj, Local administration offices
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths in public service and social development sectors in India.
Specialized Skill Development and Networking- (Semester 3-4)
Identify a specific area of interest within Political Science (e.g., international relations, public policy, electoral studies) and attend specialized workshops or short courses. Network proactively with professionals and academics through conferences or online forums to explore specific career avenues and mentorship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX (for relevant online courses), LinkedIn, Academic conferences and seminars (e.g., Indian Political Science Association)
Career Connection
Specialized skills enhance your marketability in niche areas, while networking can open doors to mentorship and job opportunities in specific political science fields.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services/Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for UPSC Civil Services Exam or State PSCs, or for PhD entrance examinations like UGC NET/JRF. Join coaching institutes if necessary, practice answer writing, and take mock tests. For research, focus on refining your dissertation proposal and methodology.
Tools & Resources
Vision IAS, Vajiram & Ravi (for civil services preparation), UGC NET study material, Academic research guides and journals
Career Connection
This stage is critical for securing top positions in government administration or for pursuing an academic and research career in political science in India.
Develop Leadership and Public Speaking Skills- (Semester 4)
Take on leadership roles in college societies, organize academic events, and actively practice public speaking through presentations, debates, and moderating discussions. These skills are vital for future roles in bureaucracy, political campaigning, or public advocacy in India.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available nearby), College debating societies, Presentation software and public speaking guides
Career Connection
Effective communication and leadership are highly valued in all professional spheres, significantly enhancing your impact and career progression in any chosen path.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 4)
Compile all research papers, policy briefs, project work, and internship reports into a professional portfolio. Attend job fairs, connect with alumni, and actively apply for relevant positions. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific job requirements for roles in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional networking events, College placement cell and alumni network platforms
Career Connection
A strong portfolio showcasing your work and a robust professional network are essential for successful job placement and long-term career growth in India''''s competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized university with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks (as per university/college norms and reservation policies).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 96 (estimated based on 4 credits per subject as per typical NEP structure) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101 | Political Theory: Concepts and Approaches | Core | 4 | Concepts: State, Power, Authority, Sovereignty, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Approaches: Liberal, Marxist, Feminist, Post-modern, Democracy and its theories, Political Obligation and Civil Disobedience |
| MAPS102 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope, Methods of Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, State, Civil Society, and Globalization |
| MAPS103 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Scope, Evolution of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Classical, Human Relations, Personnel Administration: Recruitment, Training, Motivation, Financial Administration: Budgeting, Auditing, Good Governance and Public Policy |
| MAPS104 | Research Methodology in Social Sciences | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Interview, Observation, Data Analysis: Quantitative and Qualitative, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ram Mohan Roy, Dayanand Saraswati, Gokhale, Tilak, Gandhi, Ambedkar, Savarkar, Nehru, M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, Secularism, Nationalism, Social Justice in India, Critiques of Western Political Thought |
| MAPS202 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Theories: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Constructivism, Key Concepts: Power, Security, Alliances, Diplomacy, Evolution of International Society, Globalization and its Impact, Contemporary Global Issues |
| MAPS203 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Evolution: Non-alignment to Multialignment, Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka), India''''s role in UN, BRICS, SAARC |
| MAPS204 | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Contemporary Issues: Gender, Environment, Terrorism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Constitutional Framework of States, Dynamics of State Autonomy, Regionalism and Identity Politics, Caste, Class, and Gender in State Politics, Coalition Politics and Electoral Trends |
| MAPS302 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Greek Political Thought: Plato, Aristotle, Medieval Thinkers: St. Augustine, Aquinas, Modern Thinkers: Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Enlightenment Thinkers: Kant, Hegel, Utilitarianism: Bentham, J.S. Mill |
| MAPS303 | Local Governance in India | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Panchayati Raj Institutions, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Rural and Urban Local Bodies: Structure and Functions, Finances of Local Bodies, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| MAPS304 | Political Sociology | Elective | 4 | Relationship between Society and Politics, Political Culture and Social Stratification, Elites, Power, and State, Social Movements and Political Participation, Civil Society and Governance |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401 | Government and Politics of Uttar Pradesh | Core | 4 | Historical background of UP politics, Constitutional framework and governance structure, Political parties and electoral dynamics, Caste, religion, and regionalism in UP politics, Development challenges and policy initiatives |
| MAPS402 | Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 4 | Identity Politics, Nationalism, Populism, Global Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism, Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Role of Media in Politics, Challenges to Democracy |
| MAPS403 | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Interpretation of Findings, Report Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce |
| MAPS404 | Gender and Politics | Elective | 4 | Feminist Theories of State, Gender Inequality and Political Participation, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Public Policy, Challenges to Gender Justice |
