.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-A in Political Science at K.S.S. Arts, Science and Commerce College
Dharwad, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at K.S.S. Arts, Science and Commerce College Dharwad?
This Political Science program at Kanakadasa Shikshana Samiti''''s Arts & Commerce And Science College, Dharwad, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and contemporary issues. With the NEP 2020 framework, it integrates core political concepts with interdisciplinary perspectives and skill development. India''''s vibrant democracy and geopolitical significance make this specialization highly relevant, addressing the evolving demand for informed citizens and skilled policy analysts in the public and private sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 seeking entry into public service, journalism, policy analysis, or social work. It also caters to individuals passionate about understanding governance, societal dynamics, and global affairs. Aspiring civil servants, political strategists, and those interested in academia or research will find this course beneficial, providing a strong theoretical and practical foundation for their career goals.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services, NGOs, political consultancies, media, and academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Growth trajectories often lead to positions as policy advisors, social workers, journalists, or educators. The program also aligns with preparations for UPSC, KPSC, and other competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong theoretical base by deeply understanding foundational political concepts and ideologies. Engage in group discussions, use library resources for diverse perspectives, and take meticulous notes. Participate in department seminars and guest lectures to broaden understanding beyond textbooks.
Tools & Resources
College Library, NCERT Political Science textbooks, Online encyclopedias like Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust conceptual understanding is critical for cracking competitive exams (UPSC/KPSC) and forms the bedrock for advanced studies in political science, making you a more articulate and informed citizen.
Developing Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice reading political texts, newspaper editorials, and current affairs articles critically. Learn to identify arguments, biases, and underlying assumptions. Participate in debates and essay competitions to refine analytical and argumentative writing. This also improves comprehension for complex government documents.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express (Editorial sections), Frontline magazine, Journals of Political Science (access via library), Debate clubs
Career Connection
Essential for roles in journalism, policy research, and civil services, where dissecting information and forming coherent arguments are daily tasks. Enhances problem-solving abilities.
Understanding the Indian Constitution and Polity- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate specific time to thoroughly study the Indian Constitution, its amendments, and the functioning of the Indian political system. Regularly follow parliamentary proceedings and major policy decisions. Engage with faculty for clarification on complex constitutional provisions. This will provide an Indian context to global concepts.
Tools & Resources
M. Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, Bare Act of Indian Constitution, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates), Lok Sabha TV/Rajya Sabha TV
Career Connection
Indispensable for any career in public administration, law, or political analysis in India, forming the core knowledge required for civil service examinations and government roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engaging in Public Opinion and Survey Research- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in any departmental or college-level survey projects. Learn basics of questionnaire design, data collection, and simple statistical analysis. Seek opportunities for minor field surveys within the local community to apply theoretical knowledge of public opinion. This provides practical research skills.
Tools & Resources
Google Forms, Basic Excel for data entry, Reference books on survey methodology, Guidance from research-oriented faculty
Career Connection
Develops practical skills valuable for market research, political campaigning, social science research, and data analysis roles in NGOs and think tanks.
Exploring Interdisciplinary Perspectives through Open Electives- (Semester 3-4)
Choose open electives that complement Political Science, such as Economics, Sociology, Psychology, or History. This broadens your understanding of societal factors influencing politics and policy. Utilize interdisciplinary knowledge to analyze political events more comprehensively. This fosters holistic thinking.
Tools & Resources
Course catalogues of other departments, Online introductory courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera) for related fields
Career Connection
Makes you a versatile candidate for roles requiring a holistic understanding of socio-economic factors in policymaking, journalism, and advocacy, setting you apart in a competitive job market.
Participating in Model UN/Youth Parliament- (Semester 3-4)
Join or initiate Model United Nations (MUN) or Youth Parliament sessions within the college or at inter-collegiate levels. This enhances negotiation, public speaking, and diplomatic skills, while deepening your understanding of international relations and governance. Prepare position papers and engage in constructive debate.
Tools & Resources
MUN societies/clubs, UN official website, Foreign policy think tank reports
Career Connection
Builds crucial soft skills for diplomacy, international organizations, corporate communications, and leadership roles, preparing you for global challenges.
Advanced Stage
Undertaking Research Project/Internship- (Semester 5-6)
Actively seek and complete an internship with an NGO, local government body, research institution, or political consultancy. For the required project work, choose a topic of contemporary relevance and apply robust research methodologies. This is your chance to gain hands-on experience and build a professional portfolio.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internshala, NGO directories, Academic supervisors, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability by providing practical experience, networking opportunities, and a tangible output (project report/internship certificate) for your resume, crucial for placements and higher studies.
Preparing for Competitive Examinations and Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Start dedicated preparation for civil services (UPSC, KPSC) or entrance exams for postgraduate studies (MA in Political Science, Public Administration). Join study circles, practice previous year papers, and take mock tests. Identify specific areas for improvement and seek guidance from faculty or alumni. This focused effort is key to success.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/KPSC previous year papers, Online coaching platforms, Civil service preparation books, Alumni network
Career Connection
Directly facilitates entry into prestigious government services and top academic institutions, opening doors to high-impact career paths and specialized knowledge.
Developing Specialized Knowledge through Electives- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your career interests (e.g., Human Rights, Gender Studies, Foreign Policy, Local Governance). Deep dive into these chosen areas through additional readings, seminars, and by attending relevant workshops. This specialization will make you an expert in your chosen niche.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals, Reports from government bodies/UN agencies, Expert lectures, Online courses on niche topics
Career Connection
Allows you to build a unique profile and expertise, making you a preferred candidate for specialized roles in NGOs, think tanks, international organizations, or focused research positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (Pre-University Course/Intermediate) or equivalent examination from a recognized board/council.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) for BA, 4 years (8 semesters) for BA (Honours)
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 30-40%, External: 60-70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 1.1 | Understanding Political Theory | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Power and Authority, Liberty and Equality, Justice and Rights |
| AEC 1 | Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Constituent Assembly and Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Governments, Amendment Procedures |
| LANG 1.1 | Language I (e.g., Kannada/English) | Language Course | 3 | Literary Texts, Grammar and Usage, Communication Skills, Comprehension, Writing Practice |
| VC 1 | Vocational Course (e.g., E-Governance) | Vocational Course | 3 | Introduction to E-Governance, Digital India Initiatives, E-services and Delivery Channels, Cyber Security Basics, Challenges in E-Governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 2.2 | Political Concepts and Ideologies | Major Core | 4 | Democracy and its Forms, Nationalism and its Evolution, Socialism and Communism, Liberalism and Conservatism, Feminism and Environmentalism |
| SEC 1 | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Nature of Public Opinion, Methods of Survey Research, Sampling Techniques, Questionnaire Design, Data Analysis Basics |
| LANG 2.2 | Language II (e.g., English/Kannada) | Language Course | 3 | Prose and Poetry, Advanced Grammar, Writing and Presentation Skills, Critical Analysis, Official Communication |
| VC 2 | Vocational Course (e.g., Social Media Marketing) | Vocational Course | 3 | Basics of Social Media Platforms, Content Creation and Strategy, Digital Marketing Fundamentals, Audience Engagement, Campaign Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 3.3 | Indian Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Indian Parliament, Judiciary in India, Federalism and Center-State Relations |
| PSMC 3.4 | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Locke''''s Social Contract Theory, Rousseau''''s General Will and J.S. Mill''''s Liberty |
| OE 1 | Open Elective I (e.g., Introduction to Economics) | Open Elective | 3 | Basic Economic Concepts, Demand and Supply, Market Structures, National Income, Inflation and Unemployment |
| SEC 2 | Human Rights and Duties | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 4.5 | International Relations | Major Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and its Organs, Disarmament and Arms Control, Globalization and its Impact |
| PSMC 4.6 | Public Administration | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Role, Financial Administration (Budgeting), Personnel Administration |
| OE 2 | Open Elective II (e.g., Fundamentals of Psychology) | Open Elective | 3 | Introduction to Psychology, Perception and Cognition, Learning and Memory, Motivation and Emotion, Personality Theories |
| SEC 3 | Legal Literacy | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basic Legal Terms and Concepts, Criminal Justice System in India, Civil Law and Procedures, Consumer Protection Act, Right to Information Act |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 5.7 | Comparative Politics | Major Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Comparative Constitutions, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Federalism in Comparative Perspective |
| PSMC 5.8 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Quantitative and Qualitative Research, Report Writing and Citation |
| DSE 1 | Indian Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and SAARC, India''''s Look East/Act East Policy |
| DSE 2 | Local Self-Government in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Evolution of Local Self-Government, Panchayati Raj Institutions (73rd Amendment), Urban Local Bodies (74th Amendment), Decentralization and Grassroot Democracy, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| INT 5.1 | Internship/Project Work | Experiential Learning | 2 | Fieldwork in local governance/NGOs, Data collection and analysis, Report writing, Problem identification, Solution proposal |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSMC 6.9 | Contemporary Political Issues in India | Major Core | 4 | Challenges to Indian Democracy (Corruption, Criminalization), Identity Politics (Caste, Religion, Language), Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Environmental Politics and Sustainable Development, Issues of Governance and Accountability |
| PSMC 6.10 | Political Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Political Socialization and Culture, Political Participation and Mobilization, Elites and Leadership, Pressure Groups and Social Movements, Political Development and Modernization |
| DSE 3 | Human Rights and Refugee Studies | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Concept of Refugees and Displaced Persons, International Refugee Regimes, Causes and Consequences of Displacement, Human Trafficking and its Challenges, Rehabilitation and Integration of Refugees |
| DSE 4 | Gender and Politics | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Patriarchy and Gender Roles, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender Quotas and Political Representation, Feminist Theories of Politics, Gender-based Violence and Policy Responses |
