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MA in Political Science at Lal Bahadur Shastri Smarak Degree College
Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Lal Bahadur Shastri Smarak Degree College Maharajganj?
This MA Political Science program at Lal Bahadur Shastri Smarak Degree College offers a comprehensive exploration of political theories, systems, and global dynamics under the New Education Policy. It integrates classical and contemporary thought, preparing students for analytical roles in government, media, and civil society. The curriculum emphasizes India-centric political thought, public administration, and international relations, crucial for navigating the evolving Indian public and policy landscape with a nuanced understanding.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree, particularly those with a political science background, aspiring for careers in civil services, academia, research, or social work. It also caters to working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of governance, public policy, or international affairs, or those aiming to transition into policy analysis and advocacy roles. Students with a keen interest in journalism or critical analysis of Indian and global politics will find the curriculum highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state governments (e.g., civil services, legislative assistants), non-governmental organizations, political consulting firms, journalism, and academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential based on experience and expertise. The program cultivates critical thinking, advanced research skills, and robust policy analysis capabilities, aligning with the growing demand for skilled professionals in government think tanks and advocacy groups across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understanding core political theories and concepts from both Indian and Western traditions. Actively participate in class discussions and form peer study groups to debate complex ideas, ensuring clarity on foundational principles. Utilize online platforms for supplementary lectures and academic articles.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL lectures on Political Science, Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Core political theory textbooks, Peer study groups for debate and discussion
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in policy research, journalism, and civil services, enabling deeper understanding and critical evaluation of policy impacts and political phenomena.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course. Practice formulating clear research questions, conducting comprehensive literature reviews, and writing structured academic papers. Actively seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine analytical writing, citation, and referencing skills. Participate in college-level essay competitions.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley or Zotero for referencing, Academic writing guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), University library resources (databases, e-journals), Feedback from faculty on written assignments
Career Connection
These skills are essential for any role involving reports, policy briefs, or academic publications, and are highly valued in research organizations, think tanks, and government agencies.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Discourse- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow major national and international news, focusing on political developments, government policies, and international relations. Read reputable newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and watch analytical news programs. Actively discuss contemporary issues with peers and faculty to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world political events and policy challenges.
Tools & Resources
Reputable national newspapers, News analysis shows and political commentary programs, PRS Legislative Research for policy updates, Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV for parliamentary proceedings
Career Connection
Crucial for preparation for civil service exams, political journalism, policy advocacy, and staying relevant and informed in India''''s dynamic political and governance environment.
Intermediate Stage
Specialise through Electives and In-depth Study- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose elective papers based on your career interests, such as Indian Foreign Policy or Public Policy. Dive deep into the chosen specialization by reading beyond the prescribed syllabus. Explore advanced readings, monographs, and case studies related to your chosen area to build substantial expertise and a nuanced understanding.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic books and specialized journals, Policy documents from government ministries and think tanks, Research papers and reports from international organizations, Online courses on specific sub-fields of political science
Career Connection
Developing domain expertise makes you a highly attractive candidate for specific roles in foreign policy analysis, public administration, international organizations, and specialized research positions.
Network with Professionals and Academics- (Semester 3)
Actively attend webinars, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or university, featuring experts from political science, public administration, or international relations. Engage with speakers, ask pertinent questions, and build professional contacts. Connect with alumni working in relevant fields through platforms like LinkedIn for mentorship and insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, University alumni network and departmental events, Professional association events and conferences, Webinars by think tanks and policy research institutes
Career Connection
This opens doors to mentorship, internships, and potential job opportunities through referrals, while also providing informed guidance for career planning and skill development.
Participate in Policy Debates and Mock Parliament- (Semester 3)
Actively engage in departmental debates, mock parliament sessions, or inter-college competitions focusing on current policy issues and political events. This enhances public speaking, critical argumentation, and nuanced analytical skills. Practice articulating complex political arguments effectively and persuasively in a public forum.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs and literary societies, Online policy forums and discussion platforms, Mock parliament simulations and workshops, Current affairs magazines for debate topics
Career Connection
Improves communication, leadership, and analytical reasoning skills, which are vital for roles in advocacy, public relations, legislative affairs, political campaigns, and civil services.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Rigorous Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 4)
For the Project Work/Dissertation (POL-208), select a topic of deep personal and professional interest. Conduct comprehensive primary and secondary research, meticulously analyze your findings, and present your work with academic rigor. This independent project demonstrates advanced research capabilities and contributes to your chosen field.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) if applicable, Interview transcription and qualitative analysis tools, Ethical review guidelines for social science research, Academic thesis writing guides and supervisor mentorship
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation serves as a strong portfolio piece for research roles, think tanks, academic positions, and demonstrates readiness for advanced studies like PhD programs.
Prepare for Civil Services and Other Competitive Exams- (Semester 4 (concurrent with studies))
Begin focused and systematic preparation for competitive examinations such as UPSC Civil Services, state Public Service Commissions (PSCs), or UGC NET for lectureship. Integrate your MA syllabus knowledge with exam-specific strategies, focusing on optional subjects and general studies. Consider joining study circles or coaching for targeted guidance.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC syllabi and previous year question papers, Specialized coaching institutes for civil services, Dedicated study groups for peer learning, Current affairs digests and yearbooks for general studies
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government positions, offering significant career stability, public service opportunities, and prestige within the Indian administrative and academic landscape.
Develop Professional Communication and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Refine your resume and cover letter to effectively highlight your academic achievements, specialized research skills, and any practical experiences. Actively practice interview skills, focusing on articulating your political science knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Attend university career workshops for placement guidance and mock interview sessions.
Tools & Resources
University career services cell for resume review, Mock interview sessions with faculty or mentors, Online resume builders and professional communication guides, Public speaking workshops and group discussions
Career Connection
Ensures comprehensive readiness for job applications, internships, and competitive interviews, maximizing your chances of successful placement in desired roles across various sectors in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline (as per DDUGU general PG eligibility, subject to college specific admission criteria)
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-101 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Dharma, Danda, Nyaya), Kautilya (Arthashastra, Statecraft), Rammohan Roy (Liberalism, Reforms), Mahatma Gandhi (Swaraj, Satyagraha), B.R. Ambedkar (Social Justice, Dalit Rights), Jawaharlal Nehru (Democratic Socialism, Non-alignment) |
| POL-102 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato (Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King), Aristotle (Polity, Citizenship, Classification of States), Machiavelli (Realism, Statecraft, Morality in Politics), Locke (Natural Rights, Social Contract, Limited Government), Rousseau (General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Social Contract), Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation) |
| POL-103 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Decision-Making, Bureaucracy (Max Weber), Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit, Accountability), Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), Ethics in Public Administration, Good Governance |
| POL-104 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning & Types of Research (Quantitative, Qualitative), Research Design (Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental), Data Collection Methods (Primary & Secondary), Sampling Techniques (Probability, Non-probability), Hypothesis Formulation, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Report Writing, Ethics in Research |
| POL-105 | Global Politics (Example Elective) | Elective (Open Elective/Vocational) | 4 | Globalization and its impact on politics, International Political Economy, International Organizations (UN, WTO, IMF), Regionalism (EU, SAARC, ASEAN), Global Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Human Migration and Refugee Crisis |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-106 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constituent Assembly and making of Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union Executive (President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers), Parliament (Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Law Making Process), Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts, Judicial Review), Federalism, Electoral System, Party System in India |
| POL-107 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Constructivism as IR Theories, Cold War and its End, Post-Cold War World Order, Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) and its Relevance, Foreign Policy Analysis, Diplomacy, Power, Security, and Conflict in International Relations, Terrorism, Global Governance, Human Security |
| POL-108 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Traditional, Behavioral), Political Systems (Democracy, Authoritarianism, Totalitarianism), Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Political Development, Electoral Systems, Party Systems, Interest Groups |
| POL-109 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture, Political Socialization, Political Communication, Elites, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political Participation, Social Movements, Role of Media in Politics, Public Opinion, Civil Society and State Relations, Caste, Class, and Gender in Politics |
| POL-110 | Contemporary Political Issues in India (Example Elective) | Elective (Open Elective/Vocational) | 4 | Caste and Reservation Politics, Communalism and Secularism Debates, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Electoral Reforms and Challenges, Role of Media and Civil Society in Indian Democracy, Good Governance and E-governance Initiatives |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-201 | Modern Indian Political Thinkers | Core | 4 | V.D. Savarkar (Hindutva, Nationalism), M.N. Roy (Radical Humanism, Decolonization), Jayaprakash Narayan (Total Revolution, Sarvodaya), Deendayal Upadhyaya (Integral Humanism, Swadeshi), Ram Manohar Lohia (Socialism, Four-Pillar State), E.V. Ramasamy Periyar (Self-Respect Movement, Anti-Caste) |
| POL-202 | International Law and Diplomacy | Core | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, State Recognition, State Responsibility, Jurisdiction, Law of the Sea, International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law, Role of UN, Diplomatic Privileges and Immunities, Consular Relations, International Treaties and Conventions, Peaceful Settlement of Disputes |
| POL-203 | Indian Foreign Policy: Principles and Practice (Example Elective, Group A) | Elective | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy (History, Geography, Economy), Non-Alignment Movement and its Evolution, India-Pakistan Relations (Kashmir, Cross-border Terrorism), India-China Relations (Border Dispute, Economic Cooperation), India-US Relations (Strategic Partnership, Nuclear Deal), India''''s Role in United Nations and Global South |
| POL-204 | India''''s Relations with Major Powers and Regions (Example Elective, Group A) | Elective | 4 | India and Russia (Strategic Partnership, Defense Cooperation), India and European Union, India and ASEAN, India and Africa (South-South Cooperation), India and West Asia (Energy Security, Diaspora), India''''s Nuclear Policy and Disarmament, Economic Diplomacy, Bilateral and Multilateral Trade |
| POL-205 | Political Economy of Development (Example Elective) | Elective (Open Elective/Vocational) | 4 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Dependency Theory, World-Systems Theory, Globalization and its impact on Developing Countries, Role of State, Market, and Civil Society in Development, Development Planning in India (Five-Year Plans, NITI Aayog), Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Politics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-206 | Theories of State | Core | 4 | Classical Theories of State (Plato, Aristotle), Social Contract Theories (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Idealist Theory of State (Hegel, Green), Marxist Theories of State (Capitalist State, State as Instrument), Pluralist Theory, Feminist Theories of State, Post-modernism and the State, Stateless Society |
| POL-207 | Conflict Resolution and Peace Studies | Core | 4 | Nature of Conflict, Conflict Typologies (Interstate, Intrastate), Theories of Peace (Negative Peace, Positive Peace), Conflict Resolution Approaches (Negotiation, Mediation, Arbitration), Peacekeeping, Peacemaking, Peacebuilding, Diplomacy and Disarmament, Gandhian Approach to Peace and Non-violence |
| POL-208 | Project Work/Dissertation (Example Elective, Group A) | Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Data Collection (Qualitative/Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Structure and Content of Dissertation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
| POL-209 | Regional Security in South Asia (Example Elective, Group A) | Elective | 4 | Geo-Politics of South Asia, Regional Conflicts (Kashmir, Water Disputes, Ethnic Conflicts), Nuclearization in South Asia, Arms Race, SAARC and Regional Cooperation, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism Strategies, India''''s Security Challenges and Neighborhood Policy |
| POL-210 | Disaster Management (Example Elective) | Elective (Open Elective/Vocational) | 4 | Concepts of Disaster, Hazard, Vulnerability, Risk, Types of Disasters (Natural, Man-made), Disaster Management Cycle (Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, Recovery), Role of Government Agencies (NDMA, SDMAs) and NGOs, Early Warning Systems, Community Participation, Climate Change and Disaster Resilience |
