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B-A-PROGRAMME in English Discipline And Political Science at Kirori Mal College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is English Discipline and Political Science at Kirori Mal College Delhi?
This English Discipline and Political Science program at Kirori Mal College focuses on cultivating critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of literature, politics, and society. It integrates the rigorous study of literary traditions and critical theory with an in-depth exploration of political systems, theories, and international relations. The program aims to equip students with strong communication abilities and a comprehensive perspective vital for diverse careers in India''''s dynamic public sector, media, and education industries.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in humanities, social sciences, and a desire to understand the intricacies of governance, social structures, and cultural narratives. It suits aspirants for civil services, journalism, law, education, and social work who require a robust foundation in both verbal and analytical domains. Students who enjoy reading, writing, debating, and engaging with complex ideas will thrive in this interdisciplinary environment.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, state PSCs), journalism, content writing, law, teaching, political analysis, and public relations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs+ for experienced professionals in policy research, media leadership, or senior academic roles. The multidisciplinary foundation provides a strong base for postgraduate studies in either English or Political Science.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Robust Reading and Critical Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent time each week to critically read assigned literary texts and political theory. Maintain a reading journal to summarize arguments, identify literary devices, and connect political concepts to contemporary events. Participate actively in classroom discussions to articulate your interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Online literary databases (e.g., JSTOR), News analysis platforms (The Hindu, Indian Express), Academic writing guides, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong analytical reading is fundamental for UPSC civil services exams, journalism, legal studies, and academic research, enabling quick comprehension and effective summarization of complex information.
Cultivate Effective Written and Oral Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing skills by practicing structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and developing a clear, concise style. Engage in college debates, elocution competitions, and group presentations to enhance public speaking and argumentation. Seek feedback from professors and peers regularly.
Tools & Resources
Writing workshops, Grammar tools (Grammarly), DU''''s academic integrity guidelines, Debate clubs, college societies
Career Connection
Excellent communication is indispensable for careers in media, public relations, policy advocacy, and teaching, allowing for persuasive and articulate expression of ideas.
Build Foundational Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 1-2)
Actively look for connections between your English and Political Science courses. For example, analyze how historical political movements are reflected in literature or how literary works influence political thought. Start identifying common themes like justice, power, and identity across both disciplines.
Tools & Resources
Creating mind maps, Interdisciplinary reading lists, Discussions with professors specializing in comparative studies
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary perspective is highly valued in policy analysis, research, and academia, providing a holistic understanding of complex societal issues.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Research and Academic Writing- (Semester 3-4)
Begin exploring research topics that bridge English and Political Science. Learn to conduct literature reviews, formulate research questions, and use academic databases effectively. Aim to write a substantial research paper or project, perhaps for an internal competition or departmental journal.
Tools & Resources
Delhi University library resources, JNU/DU faculty mentors, Research methodology workshops, Plagiarism checkers
Career Connection
Essential for postgraduate studies, research positions, and any role requiring in-depth analysis and evidence-based reporting, such as think tanks or policy advocacy.
Seek Practical Exposure and Network Building- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek internships with NGOs, media houses, political campaigns, or governmental bodies in Delhi. Attend public lectures, seminars, and literary festivals to network with professionals and academics. Join college societies related to English, Political Science, or social work.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), Cultural event listings in Delhi
Career Connection
Internships provide real-world experience, build a professional network, and enhance resume for placements in diverse sectors like public affairs, journalism, or non-profits.
Develop Specialized Analytical Skills- (Semester 4-5)
Deepen your analytical abilities by engaging with specialized theories in both disciplines. For English, explore postcolonial, feminist, or cultural studies. For Political Science, delve into international relations theories or public policy analysis. Participate in debates or mock parliaments to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic texts, Online courses (e.g., Coursera, edX on specific theories), Debating societies
Career Connection
Sharpens critical thinking for roles in policy analysis, strategic communication, and advanced academic pursuits, allowing for nuanced problem-solving.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Civil Services/Postgraduate Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services or entrance tests for MA English/Political Science. Focus on current affairs, general knowledge, essay writing, and optional subjects (if applicable). Consider joining a coaching institute or forming dedicated study groups.
Tools & Resources
Online test series, Current affairs magazines (e.g., Drishti IAS, Chronicle), Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes in Delhi
Career Connection
Direct preparation for high-impact careers in government administration or advanced academic research and teaching.
Curate a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Compile your best academic essays, research papers, creative writing samples, and any published articles. If applicable, include details of internships, workshops, and extracurricular achievements. This portfolio will be crucial for job applications, postgraduate admissions, and showcasing your abilities.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, personal website), Professional resume building services, College career counselors
Career Connection
A strong portfolio demonstrates tangible skills and achievements, significantly enhancing employability in media, content creation, policy advocacy, or research roles.
Engage in Mentorship and Career Planning- (Semester 6)
Seek mentorship from alumni working in your desired fields. Actively participate in career counseling sessions provided by the college. Develop a clear career roadmap, whether it''''s for higher education, specific job roles, or entrepreneurial ventures. Prepare for interviews and group discussions.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network platforms, Career services at Kirori Mal College, Mock interview sessions, Industry expert talks
Career Connection
Strategic career planning and mentorship provide clarity, guidance, and practical advice, increasing the likelihood of securing desired post-graduation opportunities and long-term career success.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent examination with a minimum aggregate percentage as per University of Delhi admission guidelines. Specific subject requirements may apply based on the chosen disciplines.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM1-1 | Indian Classical Literature | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Kalidasa''''s Abhijanasakuntalam, Sudraka''''s Mrcchakatika, Vyasa''''s Mahabharata (Selections), Sangam Poetry, Ilango Adigal''''s Silappadikaram |
| POLP-DSC-SEM1-1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | What is Political Theory?, Approaches to Political Theory, Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Concepts: Rights, Democracy, Power and Authority |
| AECC-SEM1-1 | Environmental Studies | Compulsory | 4 | Introduction to Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Natural Resources, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Laws and Ethics |
| VAC-SEM1-1 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Elective (Value Added) | 2 | The Constitution of India, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Constitutional Amendments |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM2-1 | Indian Writing in English | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Raja Rao''''s Kanthapura, R.K. Narayan''''s The Vendor of Sweets, Kamala Das'''' My Story, Poems by A.K. Ramanujan, Poems by Nissim Ezekiel |
| POLP-DSC-SEM2-1 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Organs of Government: Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, Federalism in India, Local Self-Government |
| AECC-SEM2-1 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Hindi MIL) | Compulsory | 4 | Grammar and Syntax, Reading Comprehension, Essay Writing, Basic Translation, Communication Skills, Literary Forms |
| VAC-SEM2-1 | Digital Empowerment | Elective (Value Added) | 2 | Basics of Computer and Internet, Digital Literacy, Cyber Security, Online Transactions, Digital Government Services, Social Media Responsibility |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM3-1 | European Classical Literature | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Homer''''s Iliad, Sophocles'''' Oedipus Rex, Plato''''s The Republic (Selections), Horace''''s Art of Poetry, Seneca''''s Thyestes |
| POLP-DSC-SEM3-1 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Introduction to Comparative Politics, Approaches to Studying Comparative Politics, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Party Systems, Federalism, Globalization |
| SEC-SEM3-1 | Communication in Everyday Life | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Principles of Communication, Barriers to Communication, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Listening Skills, Public Speaking, Group Discussion |
| GE-SEM3-1 | Generic Elective - Any Discipline | Elective (Generic) | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM4-1 | British Poetry and Drama: 14th to 17th Centuries | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Chaucer''''s The Prologue to The Canterbury Tales, Shakespeare''''s Hamlet, Marlowe''''s Doctor Faustus, John Donne''''s Poetry, Ben Jonson''''s Volpone |
| POLP-DSC-SEM4-1 | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | State in Comparative Perspective, Regime Types (Democratic, Authoritarian), Political Parties, Interest Groups, Federalism, Public Policy, Challenges to Democracy |
| SEC-SEM4-1 | Financial Literacy | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Basics of Personal Finance, Banking Services, Investments (Stocks, Bonds, Mutual Funds), Insurance, Taxation, Budgeting, Digital Financial Tools |
| GE-SEM4-1 | Generic Elective - Any Discipline | Elective (Generic) | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM5-1 | British Literature: 18th Century | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Swift''''s Gulliver''''s Travels (Book IV), Defoe''''s Robinson Crusoe, Pope''''s The Rape of the Lock, Addison and Steele''''s Essays, Dr. Johnson''''s Prefaces |
| POLP-DSC-SEM5-1 | Public Administration | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy, Public Policy Making, Ethics in Public Administration, Governance, Decentralization |
| SEC-SEM5-1 | Understanding Legal Documents | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Introduction to Indian Legal System, Types of Legal Documents, Reading and Interpreting Legal Texts, Basic Legal Terminology, Rights and Responsibilities, Consumer Protection |
| GE-SEM5-1 | Generic Elective - Any Discipline | Elective (Generic) | 4 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGP-DSC-SEM6-1 | British Romantic Literature | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | William Wordsworth''''s Tintern Abbey, S.T. Coleridge''''s Kubla Khan, Lord Byron''''s Don Juan (Canto I), P.B. Shelley''''s Ode to the West Wind, John Keats'''' Ode to a Nightingale |
| POLP-DSC-SEM6-1 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Determinants of Foreign Policy, India and its Neighbors, India and Major Powers, India at the UN, Economic Diplomacy, Nuclear Policy |
| SEC-SEM6-1 | Research Methodology | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Introduction to Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis (Basic), Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| GE-SEM6-1 | Generic Elective - Any Discipline | Elective (Generic) | 4 |
