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M-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, affiliated with Siddharth University, offers a comprehensive study of political theories, systems, and international relations. It prepares students for diverse roles in public service, research, and non-governmental organizations, meeting the growing demand for politically informed professionals in India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape. The program emphasizes a blend of theoretical understanding and practical insights relevant to governance and policy-making in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences or humanities seeking entry into civil services, academia, or political journalism. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of political processes for career progression in public affairs or advocacy. Individuals passionate about societal change and governance, with strong analytical and communication skills, will find this program enriching and highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths such as civil servants, policy analysts, political consultants, journalists, educators, and researchers in India. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 lakhs or more in government, think tanks, or NGOs. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, crucial for navigating complex political environments and contributing effectively to national development and public discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Strong Analytical Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate daily time to critically read core texts, academic journals, and leading newspaper editorials related to political theory and current affairs. Focus on understanding diverse perspectives, historical contexts, and underlying arguments presented by scholars and commentators.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR (if accessible), Project Muse (if accessible), The Hindu, Indian Express, NCERT Political Science books
Career Connection
Develops foundational knowledge for civil services exams, research roles, and for contributing informed public commentary and analysis in media or policy.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and debate competitions organized by the college or university. Prepare well-researched arguments, confidently present viewpoints, and engage in constructive discussions to sharpen communication and critical thinking skills.
Tools & Resources
College debate club, Departmental notice boards, Faculty guidance, Inter-college debate competitions
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, persuasive communication, and intellectual confidence, which are invaluable for policy advocacy, academic presentations, and leadership roles.
Build Foundational Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Learn to identify and evaluate reliable sources, conduct comprehensive literature reviews, and structure basic academic essays and research papers. Practice ethical citation and referencing methods to avoid plagiarism and ensure academic integrity.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, University library research databases, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
Essential for successful academic research, thesis writing, and contributing to well-structured policy briefs or insightful journalistic reports later in your career.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Local Government or NGO Internships- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks))
Seek short-term internships with local governmental bodies, such as Nagar Palika or Zila Parishad, or non-governmental organizations working on social and political issues. This provides invaluable firsthand experience in policy implementation, community engagement, and grassroots development.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Local NGO directories, Faculty connections, Online internship portals like Internshala
Career Connection
Offers practical exposure to the functioning of public and non-profit sectors, helps build professional networks, and clarifies specific career interests in public service or social advocacy.
Participate in Model United Nations (MUN) or Youth Parliaments- (Semester 3-4)
Join or organize Model United Nations (MUN) conferences or youth parliament sessions. In these simulations, represent countries or legislative constituencies, draft resolutions, and engage in diplomatic negotiations to understand global and national policy-making processes.
Tools & Resources
Online MUN resources and guides, College societies and clubs, Inter-college events
Career Connection
Develops critical negotiation skills, a deep understanding of international diplomacy, and practical insights into public policy formulation, valuable for roles in international organizations or foreign services.
Specialize through Electives and Independent Study- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose elective papers based on your career aspirations (e.g., international relations for diplomacy, public administration for civil services). Additionally, conduct independent study on a topic of deep personal or professional interest under the mentorship of a faculty member.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Faculty advisors, Advanced research databases and specialized textbooks
Career Connection
Allows for a deeper dive into a niche area, making students more competitive for specialized roles, higher education, or specific research opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Comprehensive Civil Services/NET-JRF Preparation- (Semester 4 and immediate post-MA period)
Begin intensive and structured preparation for competitive examinations such as UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commission (PCS) exams, or UGC NET-JRF. Focus on rigorous revision of core Political Science concepts, current affairs, and general studies papers.
Tools & Resources
Online coaching platforms (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s IAS), Previous year''''s question papers, Standard reference books (e.g., M. Laxmikanth for Polity), Dedicated study groups
Career Connection
Directly targets entry into prestigious government services (IAS, IPS, etc.) or opens doors to academic careers (Assistant Professor, JRF) in India.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 4)
Systematically compile academic achievements, research papers, policy briefs, and significant projects into a professional portfolio. Actively network with alumni, faculty, and professionals in think tanks, NGOs, or government through platforms like LinkedIn and informational interviews.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Online portfolio platforms, College alumni association events, Professional networking workshops
Career Connection
Significantly enhances visibility in the job market, opens doors to job opportunities, and facilitates mentorship, crucial for diverse roles in public affairs, advocacy, and research.
Master Advanced Research and Data Analysis Techniques- (Semester 4 and beyond)
If planning for further research (M.Phil/Ph.D.) or data-driven policy roles, delve deeper into advanced research methodologies, statistical tools, or qualitative data analysis software. This includes understanding survey design, econometric models, or discourse analysis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R programming language, NVivo (for qualitative data), Advanced methodology textbooks, Specialized workshops or online courses
Career Connection
Prepares students for advanced academic research careers, data analyst roles in policy organizations, or specialized positions requiring sophisticated analytical and research capabilities.
