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B-A-GENERAL in Political Science at Khudiram Bose Central College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Khudiram Bose Central College Kolkata?
This Political Science program at Khudiram Bose Central College focuses on the fundamental concepts of governance, international relations, and public administration crucial for understanding Indian and global political landscapes. It differentiates itself by offering a robust curriculum aligned with the University of Calcutta, preparing students for diverse roles in public service, policy analysis, and journalism within the dynamic Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds seeking entry into civil services, journalism, or research roles. It also suits individuals passionate about socio-political dynamics and aspiring to contribute to public life, providing a strong theoretical foundation essential for higher studies or policy-related careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, WBPSC), political analysis, and media. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories in government, NGOs, and think tanks across Indian cities. The degree also aligns with preparation for legal studies and social work professions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand fundamental concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and state theory through regular reading and discussion groups. Utilize online resources like NCERT Political Science textbooks and YouTube channels from reputed educators to supplement classroom learning and build a strong theoretical base for the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books, E-Pathshala platform, University library resources, Study groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual understanding is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, and for effective policy analysis.
Enhance Communication and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in debates, public speaking events, and essay competitions. Focus on improving written communication by regularly writing analytical essays and short research papers. Utilize college library databases for academic journals and reputable news sources to develop critical thinking on current affairs.
Tools & Resources
College debate club, Public speaking workshops, JSTOR/ProQuest access through library, Reputable Indian news portals (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
Strong communication and research are vital for civil services, journalism, advocacy, and academic pursuits.
Engage with Current Political Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, regularly follow national and international news, especially focusing on Indian politics, government policies, and international relations. Read editorials and analytical pieces from diverse perspectives. Discuss contemporary issues with peers and faculty to broaden understanding and develop informed opinions.
Tools & Resources
Reputable newspapers (physical/digital), News magazines like Frontline, Parliament of India website, Think tank reports (ORF, CPR)
Career Connection
Keeps knowledge relevant for competitive exams and provides practical context for theoretical learning, essential for policy roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Collaborate with faculty or peers on small research projects focusing on specific Indian political issues, such as local governance, social movements, or public policy implementation. This helps apply theoretical knowledge, develop analytical skills, and understand ground realities of India''''s political landscape.
Tools & Resources
College faculty mentorship, Research methodology workshops, Government reports (NITI Aayog, Census of India), Statistical data portals (MOSPI)
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills valued in policy analysis, think tanks, and academic research in India.
Explore Internships with NGOs or Local Bodies- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out short-term internships with local Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), political consultancies, or municipal corporations in Kolkata or nearby areas. This provides invaluable exposure to grassroots political processes, advocacy, and public service delivery mechanisms within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
College career cell, Online internship platforms (Internshala), Direct outreach to local NGOs/MLAs'''' offices, Networking events
Career Connection
Offers practical experience, helps build a professional network, and provides a competitive edge for placements in development and public sector roles.
Participate in Model UN or Youth Parliaments- (Semester 3-5)
Join Model United Nations (MUN) conferences or Youth Parliament sessions organized by the college or other institutions. This hones diplomatic skills, negotiation tactics, and deepens understanding of international relations and parliamentary procedures, highly relevant for aspiring diplomats or civil servants in India.
Tools & Resources
College clubs and societies, National/International MUN circuits, Official UN websites
Career Connection
Builds confidence, public speaking abilities, and analytical skills crucial for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, and public policy.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services- (Semester 5-6)
Begin intensive preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services or West Bengal Public Service Commission (WBPSC) for entry into government administration. Focus on Political Science as an optional subject, practice answer writing, and join mock interview sessions to simulate exam conditions specific to India.
Tools & Resources
Reputed coaching institutes (online/offline), Previous year question papers, Online test series, Mentorship from successful aspirants
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for coveted roles in Indian bureaucracy, public administration, and state government services.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 6)
Work on a final year dissertation or a major project on a relevant Political Science topic, incorporating extensive research, data analysis, and critical arguments. This showcases advanced academic ability and specialization, which can be a strong portfolio piece for higher education or research-oriented careers in India.
Tools & Resources
Faculty supervisors, Academic databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Statistical software (if applicable), Research paper writing guides
Career Connection
Enhances analytical and research skills, crucial for postgraduate studies, research positions, and think tanks.
Network and Attend Public Policy Seminars- (Semester 5-6)
Actively network with alumni, faculty, and professionals in the political and public policy spheres. Attend seminars, webinars, and workshops on contemporary public policy issues in India. Engage in discussions to gain insights, explore career opportunities, and build contacts for future internships or job placements.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Think tank events (ORF, CPR, ICRIER), Government department workshops
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and keeps graduates updated on industry trends, enhancing employability in various sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (Higher Secondary) examination or its equivalent from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-CC-1-1-TH | Political Theory | Core Course (Political Science) | 6 | What is Political Theory?, Approaches to Political Theory, Concept of State and its elements, Key Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Sovereignty and Citizenship |
| ENVS | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Ecosystems and their functions, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental pollution and control measures, Global environmental issues and sustainable development |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-CC-2-1-TH | Indian Government and Politics | Core Course (Political Science) | 6 | Colonialism in India and Nationalist Movement, Making of the Indian Constitution: Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Union Legislature (Parliament), Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts), Federalism, Party System, Elections |
| ENGC/MILC | English/Modern Indian Language (MIL) Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Theory of Communication, Types of Communication: Verbal, Non-Verbal, Written, Listening and Speaking Skills, Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, Report Writing and Drafting |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-CC-3-1-TH | Comparative Government and Politics | Core Course (Political Science) | 6 | What is Comparative Politics? Nature, Scope, Methods, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitution and Constitutionalism, Legislature, Executive, Judiciary (comparative study), Federalism, Unitary System, Party Systems and Electoral Systems |
| PLSG-SEC-A-3-1-TH | Understanding Political Theory through Films | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Conceptualizing Political Theory through Cinema, Themes of Power and Authority in Films, Justice and Rights in Cinematic Narratives, Democracy and Citizenship representations, Critiques of Political Systems through films |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-CC-4-1-TH | International Relations | Core Course (Political Science) | 6 | Approaches to International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Key Concepts: Power, Security, Sovereignty, Globalisation, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Rise of Multi-polarity and Regional Organizations (UN, EU, SAARC, ASEAN), Foreign Policy of India: Determinants and objectives, Contemporary global challenges |
| PLSG-SEC-A-4-1-TH | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | What is Public Opinion? Nature and formation, Methods of Measuring Public Opinion, Survey Research Design: Questionnaire, Sampling, Data Analysis and Interpretation in Survey Research, Ethics and Limitations of Survey Research |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-DSE-A-5-1-TH | Western Political Thought | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE - Option 1) | 6 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: Citizenship, Constitution, Types of Government, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, Morality and Politics, John Locke: Social Contract, Natural Rights, Limited Government, Jean-Jacques Rousseau: General Will, Social Contract, Popular Sovereignty |
| PLSG-DSE-B-5-1-TH | Public Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE - Option 2) | 6 | Meaning, Scope, and Evolution of Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration: Scientific Management, Bureaucracy, Human Relations Approach, Rational Choice Theory, Public Policy: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Accountability and Control in Public Administration |
| PLSG-SEC-A-5-1-TH | Human Rights: Theory and Practice | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Concept of Human Rights: Meaning and Attributes, Evolution of Human Rights: Historical Background, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) and Covenants, Human Rights in India: Constitutional provisions, NHRC, Role of State and NGOs in protecting Human Rights |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSG-DSE-A-6-1-TH | Modern Indian Political Thought | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE - Option 1) | 6 | Raja Rammohun Roy: Rationalism, Social Reform, M.K. Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Non-violence, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Caste Annihilation, V.D. Savarkar: Hindutva, Nationalism, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism, Jawaharlal Nehru: Secularism, Democracy, Non-alignment |
| PLSG-DSE-B-6-1-TH | Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE - Option 2) | 6 | Approaches to Development: Modernization, Dependency, Displacements and Development Induced Migration, Peasant and Farmers Movements in India, Workers and Trade Union Movements, Environmental Movements (Chipko, Narmada Bachao Andolan), Women''''s and Dalit Movements |
| PLSG-SEC-A-6-1-TH | Legislative Practices and Procedures | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | The Legislative Process: Bill to Act, Types of Bills: Ordinary, Money, Constitutional Amendment, Role of Parliamentary Committees, Parliamentary Devices: Questions, Zero Hour, Adjournment Motion, Budgetary Process and Financial Control, Role of Speaker/Presiding Officer and Functions of Legislature |
