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B-A in Political Science at Karnataka Rural and Educational Development Society's Shivasharanya Hemaraddi Mallamma Arts College for Women
Vijayapura, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Karnataka Rural and Educational Development Society's Shivasharanya Hemaraddi Mallamma Arts College for Women Vijayapura?
This Political Science program at Karnataka Rural and Education Development Society''''s Shivasharny Hemraddi Mallamma Arts College for Women, Vijayapura, focuses on equipping students with a profound understanding of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations. It delves into Indian political thought, public administration, and human rights, providing a comprehensive foundation essential for civic engagement and policy analysis in India. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking about the democratic processes and administrative frameworks prevalent in the country.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from arts or commerce backgrounds seeking entry into civil services, public policy roles, or journalism. It also suits individuals passionate about social change and governance, aspiring to careers in NGOs, research, or academia within India. Students keen on understanding national and international political dynamics will find this specialization particularly engaging, preparing them for influential roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central or state government services (UPSC, KPSC), public relations, media, and social work. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth potential in administrative or research roles. The program also serves as a strong foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies in political science, law, or public administration, enhancing their career trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core political theories, concepts like state, sovereignty, justice, and key thinkers from both Western and Indian traditions. Utilize textbooks, reference books from the college library, and online resources like e-PG Pathshala for clear explanations.
Tools & Resources
College Library resources, e-PG Pathshala (UGC), NCERT Political Science textbooks
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC, which test fundamental knowledge, and for higher studies in political science.
Cultivate Effective Reading and Note-Taking Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a systematic approach to reading academic texts and newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) to stay updated on current affairs. Practice structured note-taking methods like Cornell notes to synthesize information efficiently for exam preparation.
Tools & Resources
Daily English/Kannada Newspapers, Note-taking apps (Evernote, OneNote), College mentorship programs
Career Connection
Enhances communication and critical thinking skills, essential for public speaking, civil service interviews, and research roles, where information processing is key.
Engage in Debates and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, college debates, and political science forums. This helps in articulating ideas, defending arguments, and understanding diverse perspectives on political issues relevant to India and the world.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Departmental seminars, Online political discussion groups
Career Connection
Enhances communication and critical thinking skills, essential for public speaking, civil service interviews, and leadership roles in any organization.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Indian Political System and Governance- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intently on the Indian Constitution, political processes, and public administration. Read scholarly articles and government reports alongside textbooks. Prepare detailed notes on specific constitutional amendments, landmark judgments, and administrative reforms in India.
Tools & Resources
Indian Constitution commentaries, PRS Legislative Research website, Yojana & Kurukshetra magazines
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for the Indian civil services (UPSC, KPSC) and roles in public policy analysis and governance-focused NGOs.
Analyze Current Affairs and Policy Implications- (Semester 3-5)
Regularly follow national and international news, analyzing events through the lens of political theories and concepts learned. Write short analytical essays or participate in mock policy discussions to sharpen your perspective on contemporary Indian political challenges.
Tools & Resources
Frontline magazine, Gateway House policy briefs, Online news portals (The Wire, Scroll.in)
Career Connection
Develops the analytical acumen required for roles in journalism, think tanks, foreign policy analysis, and strategic communication.
Explore Internship Opportunities in Public/Social Sector- (Semester 4-5)
Seek internships with local NGOs, government departments (e.g., district administration), or political organizations. This provides practical exposure to policy implementation, grassroots issues, and the functioning of public institutions in Karnataka.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, NGO directories, LinkedIn for internship postings
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, builds professional networks, and helps clarify career interests in public service or advocacy within India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services, KPSC, or other state-level competitive exams. Practice answer writing, essay composition, and general studies. Consider joining a coaching institute or study group for structured guidance.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Online test series, UPSC/KPSC study materials
Career Connection
Directly targets career aspirations in the highly competitive Indian civil and administrative services, offering stable and impactful career paths.
Undertake a Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Choose a topic of interest, preferably related to Indian politics, governance, or international relations, and conduct an in-depth research project. This develops independent research skills, academic writing, and a deeper understanding of a specific area.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology books, JSTOR/Google Scholar for academic papers, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Essential for students planning to pursue M.A. or Ph.D. in political science, or for roles in policy research and analysis within Indian think tanks.
Network with Alumni and Professionals- (Semester 6)
Connect with college alumni who have pursued careers in political science-related fields, civil services, or social work. Attend webinars, workshops, and career fairs to gain insights into various career paths and build a professional network.
Tools & Resources
Alumni association portals, LinkedIn, Industry-specific webinars
Career Connection
Provides mentorship, career guidance, and potential job leads, easing the transition from academia to the professional world in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in II PUC or 12th Std. Examination with any combination from a recognized Board / University
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: Not explicitly aggregated for the Political Science specialization as a total. Each optional Political Science subject is 4 credits. Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.1.1 | Political Science - I : Principles of Political Science | Optional Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Methods of Political Science, Concepts: State, Nation, Sovereignty, Power, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Law, Property |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.2.1 | Political Science - II : Political Thought (Western and Indian) | Optional Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Revolution, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, Locke: Natural Rights, Social Contract, Rousseau: General Will, Social Contract, Indian Political Thought: Gandhi, M. N. Roy, Ambedkar, Kautilya |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.3.1 | Political Science - III : Indian Political System | Optional Core | 4 | Indian Constitution: Features, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Duties, DPSP, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Union Legislature: Parliament (Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha), Indian Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, State Government: Governor, Chief Minister, State Legislature, Electoral System, Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Bodies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.4.1 | Political Science - IV : International Relations | Optional Core | 4 | Concepts: National Interest, Power, Security, Balance of Power, Theories: Idealism, Realism, United Nations: Organs, Role, Reforms, Cold War, Non-Alignment Movement, Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, European Union, India''''s Foreign Policy: Principles, Objectives, Major Determinants |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.5.1 | Political Science - V : Public Administration | Optional Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Importance of Public Administration, Principles of Organization: Hierarchy, Span of Control, Unity of Command, Bureaucracy: Types, Role, Problems, Personnel Administration: Recruitment, Training, Promotion, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Planning, Control Over Administration |
| BA.POL.5.2 | Political Science - VI : Government and Politics of Karnataka | Optional Core | 4 | Historical Background and Formation of Karnataka, Features of Karnataka Politics, State Legislature: Structure, Powers, Functions, Chief Minister and Council of Ministers, Panchayat Raj and Urban Local Self Government in Karnataka, Political Parties and Pressure Groups in Karnataka |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA.POL.6.1 | Political Science - VII : Comparative Government and Politics | Optional Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics: Traditional, Modern, Constitutions of UK (Parliamentary), USA (Presidential), China (Communist), Switzerland (Direct Democracy), Political Parties and Pressure Groups in UK, USA, India, Federalism: USA and India, Electoral Systems: First Past the Post, Proportional Representation |
| BA.POL.6.2 | Political Science - VIII : Human Rights and Environmental Politics | Optional Core | 4 | Meaning, Theories, and Evolution of Human Rights, United Nations and Human Rights: Universal Declaration, Covenants, Human Rights in India: NHRC, SHRC, Constitutional Provisions, Environmental Movement and Politics: Global and Indian, Environmental Policy and Governance, Global Environmental Issues: Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss |
