.png&w=1920&q=75)
MA in Political Science at Kalindi College
Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Kalindi College Delhi?
This Political Science program at Kalindi College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political phenomena, institutions, and processes. It delves into Indian and global political thought, international relations, public administration, and research methodologies. In the Indian context, it prepares students for roles in public service, policy analysis, and academia, addressing the evolving political landscape of a diverse nation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, humanities, or law, seeking entry into civil services, journalism, or political consulting. It also suits working professionals in NGOs, government departments, or media looking to deepen their analytical skills. Career changers transitioning into policy research or advocacy roles will find it particularly beneficial, leveraging their prior experience with advanced political insights.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as civil servants (IAS, IPS), policy analysts for think tanks, political journalists, or researchers. Entry-level salaries range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy-making or academic roles. Growth trajectories involve leadership positions in public service, influential roles in media, or advanced research in political science.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong conceptual foundation by thoroughly understanding core political theories, comparative politics, and international relations. Focus on identifying and critiquing different perspectives.
Tools & Resources
University of Delhi prescribed readings, Standard political science textbooks (e.g., Andrew Heywood, Will Kymlicka), Online academic journals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for UPSC Civil Services Examination and other competitive exams, building a robust analytical base for policy analysis roles.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read national newspapers and magazines (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express, Frontline) and watch debates on reputable news channels (e.g., Rajya Sabha TV, Sansad TV). Formulate your own informed opinions on contemporary political issues.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers and news channels, PRS Legislative Research (for policy briefs), EPW (Economic and Political Weekly) for scholarly articles
Career Connection
Crucial for aspiring journalists, policy advisors, and civil servants to stay updated and develop critical thinking on India''''s political landscape.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice writing analytical essays, research papers, and critical reviews using proper academic citation styles. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine your argumentation and clarity.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Grammarly, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing, College writing center (if available)
Career Connection
Fundamental for success in higher education, research roles, and any career requiring clear communication and structured arguments.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your career interests (e.g., public policy, gender studies, international relations). Actively participate in class discussions and projects related to these chosen areas.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals in your chosen sub-field, Advanced textbooks, Departmental seminars on DSE topics
Career Connection
Builds expertise for specific roles in think tanks, NGOs, or specialized government departments, enhancing your resume for targeted job applications.
Undertake Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Proactively seek opportunities for short-term research projects with professors or internships with NGOs, government bodies, or political consultancies in Delhi. Gain practical exposure to policy formulation, advocacy, or political campaigns.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), LinkedIn, Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, builds a professional network, and strengthens your CV for placements and competitive exams.
Engage in Debates, Seminars, and Model UN- (Semester 3-4)
Participate actively in departmental seminars, college debates, and Model United Nations (MUN) conferences. These platforms hone your public speaking, negotiation, and critical analysis skills.
Tools & Resources
College societies, Inter-college events, National/international MUN circuits, Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Enhances communication, leadership, and diplomatic skills, highly valued in civil services, international organizations, and advocacy roles.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services/NET/PhD- (Semester 3-4 (Parallel with coursework))
Begin focused preparation for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services or UGC NET (for lectureship/PhD). Join coaching centers if desired, solve previous year papers, and revise comprehensively.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/NET official websites, Coaching institutes (e.g., Vajiram & Ravi, Drishti IAS), Online test series, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Directly targets high-demand government jobs and academic positions, providing a structured approach to career entry.
Craft a Strong Dissertation/Research Paper- (Semester 4)
For students opting for a dissertation, choose a relevant and impactful research topic. Conduct thorough research, write a well-structured paper, and be prepared to defend your findings. For others, focus on producing high-quality research papers for courses.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Library resources, Statistical software (if applicable), Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical for academic careers, think tank positions, and highly regarded in civil services interviews.
Network Strategically and Attend Career Fairs- (Semester 4)
Attend career fairs, alumni meets, and public lectures to network with professionals in your target fields. Build connections with professors, guest speakers, and industry leaders who can offer mentorship or job leads.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Professional associations, Career development workshops
Career Connection
Opens doors to exclusive job opportunities, mentorship, and provides insights into industry trends, facilitating smoother transitions into professional life.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. Hons. Political Science from University of Delhi or any other recognized University with 50% or above marks in aggregate; OR B.A. from University of Delhi or any other recognized University with 50% or above marks in aggregate and 50% or above marks in Political Science papers; OR Any Graduate from University of Delhi or any other recognized University with 60% or above marks in aggregate. (As per University of Delhi PG Admissions Bulletin, 2023-24, which is generally applicable for 2024-25 admissions).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MP-101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Theory, Traditions in Political Thought, Concepts of Liberty and Equality, Justice and Rights, Power and Authority, Democracy and Citizenship |
| MP-102 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, State and Society, Political Regimes, Political Parties and Electoral Systems, Federalism, Globalization and Politics |
| MP-103 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Eras, International Political Economy, Global Governance, Peace and Conflict Studies |
| MP-104 | Modern Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Colonialism and Nationalism, Reformist and Revivalist Movements, Diverse Streams of Indian Thought (e.g., Roy, Ambedkar, Gandhi), Debates on Nationhood, Tradition and Modernity |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MP-201 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Public Policy Analysis, Bureaucracy and Governance, Decentralization, Public Sector Reforms |
| MP-202 | Modern Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | Contemporary Indian Political Thinkers (e.g., Nehru, Lohia, Jayaprakash Narayan), Debates on Secularism and Communalism, Socialism and Development, Caste and Gender in Politics |
| MP-203 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment, India''''s Relations with Major Powers, South Asian Diplomacy, Economic Diplomacy, Nuclear Policy |
| MP-204 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Federalism and Centre-State Relations, Regionalism, Political Economy of States, Caste and Religion in State Politics, Development Experiences of Indian States |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MP-301 | Western Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Ancient Greek Thought (Plato, Aristotle), Medieval Political Thought (Augustine, Aquinas), Early Modern Thought (Machiavelli, Hobbes), Social Contract Theorists (Locke, Rousseau) |
| MP-302 | Research Methods in Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature of Social Science Research, Research Design, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| MP-DSE-3XX (Example) | Democracy and Human Rights in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Theories of Democracy, Indian Democratic System, Human Rights Framework in India, State and Civil Society, Challenges to Democracy |
| MP-DSE-3XX (Example) | Gender and Politics | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Feminist Theories, Gender and Public Policy, Women''''s Movements, Representation and Participation of Women in Politics, Patriarchy and Power |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MP-401 | Western Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | Enlightenment Thinkers (Kant), Utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill), Idealism (Hegel), Marxism, Contemporary Western Political Theory (e.g., Arendt, Foucault) |
| MP-DSE-4XX (Example) | Electoral Politics in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Electoral System, Voting Behaviour, Political Parties and Alliances, Election Commission, Reforms, Money and Muscle Power |
| MP-DSE-4XX (Example) | Public Policy in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Public Policy Process, Policy Analysis Frameworks, Health and Education Policy, Rural Development, Social Welfare Policies |
| MP-405 | Dissertation/Project | Elective (in lieu of one DSE) | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing, Presentation of Research Findings |
