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B-A in Political Science at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya
Basti, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya Basti?
This Political Science program at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya, Basti, affiliated with Siddharth University, focuses on foundational political theories, Indian and global political systems, public administration, and international relations. Given India''''s vibrant democracy and complex governance, the program offers a critical understanding of policy-making, constitutional frameworks, and socio-political dynamics, preparing students for engaged citizenship and careers in public service, advocacy, and research. Its comprehensive curriculum caters to the evolving demands of the Indian administrative and political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about governance, public affairs, and social justice. It suits fresh graduates aspiring for civil services (UPSC/PCS), those interested in journalism, social work, law, or pursuing higher education in political science or international relations. Individuals seeking to develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills for roles in policy analysis or non-governmental organizations will also find this program valuable, particularly with a focus on India-specific challenges.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can pursue diverse career paths in India, including civil services, political journalism, electoral campaign management, social activism, policy research with think tanks, and roles in NGOs. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, growing significantly with experience and success in competitive examinations. The program lays a strong foundation for advanced studies and offers pathways into academic and specialized professional roles within India''''s dynamic political and administrative sectors, fostering civic leadership.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Conceptual Clarity- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on understanding core political theories and concepts from day one. Utilize prescribed textbooks thoroughly, complement learning with online lectures (e.g., NPTEL, Swayam courses on political science fundamentals), and actively participate in peer discussions to grasp the basics of state, power, liberty, and justice.
Tools & Resources
Prescribed Textbooks, NPTEL/Swayam Online Courses, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is fundamental for competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced studies in political science, enabling deeper analysis in policy-making and research.
Cultivate Regular Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a consistent habit of reading daily reputable newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express, The Wire) and analytical magazines (e.g., Frontline, Economic and Political Weekly). This practice builds crucial current affairs knowledge, essential for Political Science, competitive exams, and helps connect theoretical concepts to real-world socio-political events in India.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express (e-papers), Reputable News Portals, Current Affairs Magazines
Career Connection
Enhances general awareness, critical thinking, and articulation, which are vital for civil services, journalism, and policy analysis roles.
Develop Analytical Writing and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Practice essay writing and structuring answers effectively for examinations and academic assignments. Actively participate in college debates, extempore, and elocution competitions to hone persuasive communication and public speaking skills. This is crucial for academic excellence and future careers requiring strong articulation, such as public relations or advocacy.
Tools & Resources
Previous Year Question Papers, College Debating Societies, Writing Workshops
Career Connection
Strong written and oral communication skills are indispensable for competitive exams, professional presentations, and influencing public discourse in various career fields.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Practical Politics and Governance- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities for internships with local NGOs focused on governance, political campaign teams, or community development projects during summer breaks. This provides firsthand exposure to policy implementation, grassroots issues, and electoral processes within the Indian democratic framework, offering a practical dimension to theoretical learning.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, Political Party Offices, Community Development Centers, Internship Portals (e.g., Internshala)
Career Connection
Practical exposure is invaluable for understanding real-world challenges, building networks, and identifying specific career interests in public service or social advocacy in India.
Participate in Academic Research- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with professors on small research projects, term papers, or reviews of academic articles. This actively develops essential research methodology skills, critical thinking, and deepens understanding of specific political issues relevant to India, preparing students for higher studies or roles in policy analysis and think tanks.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, JSTOR/Google Scholar, Faculty Mentorship
Career Connection
Refines analytical and problem-solving abilities, which are highly valued in research-oriented roles, think tanks, and academia.
Join Competitive Exam Prep Groups- (Semester 3-5)
Form or join study groups specifically focused on preparing for civil services (UPSC/PCS) or other government job examinations. Regularly discuss current affairs, analyze previous year''''s question papers, and collectively share academic resources to build a strong, collaborative foundation for future career aspirations in public administration.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PCS Study Materials, Online Forums for Civil Services, Previous Year Question Papers
Career Connection
Provides structured preparation, peer support, and strategy development for highly competitive government sector jobs, a popular career choice for Political Science graduates.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Study and Dissertation- (Semester 6)
In the final year, focus on areas of deep interest for advanced specialization, such as international relations, Indian political thought, or public policy. Undertake a dissertation or a major research project, applying theoretical knowledge to a contemporary political issue, thereby showcasing comprehensive research capabilities for academic or policy-making roles in India.
Tools & Resources
Academic Journals, Research Supervisors, Statistical Software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Demonstrates expertise and research acumen, essential for postgraduate studies, roles in policy research, and specialized government departments.
Participate in Mock Interviews and Group Discussions- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in mock interviews and group discussion sessions, especially those tailored for civil services, public sector undertakings (PSUs), or corporate placements. This focused practice enhances communication, critical thinking under pressure, and presentation skills, which are crucial for securing coveted positions in both Indian public and private sectors.
Tools & Resources
Career Services Cell, Professional Trainers, Online Interview Platforms
Career Connection
Improves confidence and performance in real-world selection processes, significantly boosting placement and career advancement prospects.
Network and Career Counseling- (Semester 6)
Attend career counseling workshops, alumni talks, and seminars organized by the college or university. Actively network with faculty, alumni, and professionals in relevant fields to gain practical insights into career paths, job opportunities, and further educational avenues specific to political science in India.
Tools & Resources
Alumni Association, Departmental Seminars, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Building professional connections can lead to mentorship, internship opportunities, and direct job referrals, accelerating career entry and growth in the Indian context.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) from any recognized board, as per general university norms.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 32 (for 8 major Political Science papers, 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060101T | Political Theory (राजनीति शास्त्र का परिचय: राजनीतिक सिद्धांत) | Core (Major) | 4 | Political Science: Nature and Scope, State and Sovereignty, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice: Theories and Dimensions, Democracy: Theories and Forms, Political Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060201T | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development (भारतीय राष्ट्रीय आंदोलन एवं संवैधानिक विकास) | Core (Major) | 4 | Indian National Movement: Causes and Phases, Constitutional Development up to 1947, Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Federal System and Centre-State Relations, President, Prime Minister, and Parliament |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060301T | Comparative Government and Politics (तुलनात्मक सरकार और राजनीति) | Core (Major) | 4 | Comparative Politics: Nature, Scope and Approaches, Political Systems and their Classifications, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems: Types and Functioning, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Comparative Study of UK, USA, China, and Indian Political Systems |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060401T | Public Administration (लोक प्रशासन) | Core (Major) | 4 | Public Administration: Meaning, Nature and Scope, Theories of Organization: Classical, Human Relations, Bureaucracy and its Role in Governance, Financial Administration and Budgeting, Personnel Administration and Recruitment, Accountability and Control in Public Administration |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060501T | Principles of International Relations (अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संबंध) | Core (Major) | 4 | International Relations: Nature, Scope and Theories, Concepts of Power, National Interest, Security, Evolution of International System: Cold War, Post-Cold War, United Nations: Structure and Functions, Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, EU, India''''s Foreign Policy: Determinants and Challenges |
| A060502T | Western Political Thinkers (पाश्चात्य राजनीतिक विचारक) | Core (Major Elective) | 4 | Plato: Justice and Ideal State, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Revolution, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality and Politics, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theories, J.S. Mill: Liberty and Representative Government, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060601T | Indian Political Thinkers (भारतीय राजनीतिक विचारक) | Core (Major) | 4 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Manusmriti: Social Order and Dharma, Mahatma Gandhi: Non-violence, Satyagraha, Swaraj, Jawaharlal Nehru: Democratic Socialism, Non-Alignment, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Constitutionalism, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism, Deendayal Upadhyay: Integral Humanism |
| A060602T | Research Methodology (शोध प्रविधि) | Core (Major Elective / Project) | 4 | Social Research: Meaning, Objectives, Types, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Interview, Observation, Sampling: Types and Techniques, Hypothesis Formulation and Testing, Report Writing: Structure and Ethics |
