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BA in Political Science at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College Prayagraj?
This Political Science program at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College focuses on analyzing power, governance, and public policy within local, national, and international contexts. It provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and ideologies crucial for informed citizenship and effective public service. The program emphasizes India-specific political dynamics, constitutional development, and contemporary challenges, addressing the growing demand for politically literate and analytically strong professionals in the Indian public sector and civil society.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with an interest in public affairs, governance, and social issues, aspiring for civil services or careers in journalism, policy analysis, and activism. It also suits working professionals in government, NGOs, or media seeking to deepen their foundational knowledge or transition into roles requiring strong analytical and political insight. Candidates with a keen interest in constitutional law, international relations, and public administration will find this specialization particularly engaging.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political analysis, journalism, public relations, research, and non-governmental organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in government and policy roles. The program provides a strong foundation for postgraduate studies in Political Science, Public Administration, Law, and International Relations, aligning with the skill demands of a rapidly evolving Indian democratic landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (undefined)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental political concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and state, as these form the bedrock of advanced study. Utilize textbooks, reference books by Indian authors, and online platforms like e-Pathshala for in-depth understanding and context.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Rajeev Bhargava), E-Pathshala Political Science modules, Newspapers for current affairs
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is crucial for excelling in competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, and for analytical roles in policy research.
Develop Strong Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills- (undefined)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, debates, and presentations. Practice writing analytical essays on contemporary political issues, focusing on structure, argumentation, and evidence. Regularly read editorials from leading Indian newspapers like The Hindu, The Indian Express, and Dainik Jagran.
Tools & Resources
Debate clubs, Journal writing on political events, Reading national newspapers and political magazines
Career Connection
These skills are essential for roles in journalism, policy analysis, advocacy, and effective communication in any professional setting.
Engage with Indian Constitutional Framework- (undefined)
Beyond classroom learning, delve into the nuances of the Indian Constitution. Attend workshops or seminars focused on constitutional law and governance. Engage in mock parliament sessions or discussions about landmark judgments to grasp practical applications.
Tools & Resources
Indian Constitution bare act, P.M. Bakshi''''s Constitution of India, Online legal resources (e.g., LiveLaw)
Career Connection
Deep knowledge of the Indian Constitution is paramount for civil services aspirants, lawyers, and policy advisors.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Research Projects and Surveys- (undefined)
Proactively seek opportunities for small-scale research projects or surveys, perhaps related to local governance, public opinion, or social issues in Prayagraj. This hands-on experience in data collection and analysis is invaluable. Collaborate with faculty members for guidance and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
Google Forms for surveys, Basic statistical tools (Excel), Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Builds research acumen vital for higher studies, think tank roles, and evidence-based policy formulation.
Participate in Internships and Field Visits- (undefined)
Actively look for internships with local NGOs, political parties, media houses, or government departments during summer breaks. Even short-term placements provide practical exposure to how political theories and policies function on the ground in an Indian context.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell guidance, Online internship platforms (Internshala), Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, builds professional networks, and clarifies career aspirations, enhancing employability.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Studies- (undefined)
Complement Political Science with relevant subjects like History, Economics, Sociology, or Public Administration if allowed by the NEP framework. This broadens perspective and offers a holistic understanding of societal challenges, crucial for comprehensive policy-making in India.
Tools & Resources
Elective subject choices, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera), Reading across disciplines
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving capabilities, making graduates suitable for roles requiring a multi-faceted approach to complex issues.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Civil Services Exam Preparation- (undefined)
For aspirants, align advanced studies with UPSC or State PSC syllabi. Form study groups, practice answer writing, and take mock tests. Emphasize current affairs, essay writing, and optional subjects relevant to Political Science. Leverage local coaching centers and online resources.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC previous year papers, Standard study guides, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly competitive and prestigious government service careers in India.
Develop Policy Analysis and Advocacy Skills- (undefined)
Work on a detailed project or dissertation on a contemporary public policy issue relevant to Uttar Pradesh or India. Focus on problem identification, stakeholder analysis, policy options, and impact assessment. Practice presenting policy briefs and engaging in advocacy simulations.
Tools & Resources
Government policy documents, Think tank reports (e.g., ORF, PRS Legislative), Presentation software
Career Connection
Equips graduates for roles in policy research, public policy consulting, advocacy, and political advisory.
Build a Professional Network and Portfolio- (undefined)
Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops in Political Science, Public Administration, and International Relations. Network with faculty, alumni, and professionals. Curate a portfolio of research papers, policy briefs, and articles to showcase expertise and accomplishments.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn profiles, Academic conferences, Student associations
Career Connection
Facilitates job placements, mentorship opportunities, and long-term career growth in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) examination or equivalent from a recognized board/university.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: Approx. 132-140 (varies based on elective and vocational choices as per NEP guidelines) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core (Major) | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Major Constitutional Acts (1909, 1919, 1935), Gandhian Movements and Partition, Making of the Indian Constitution, Salient Features of the Indian Constitution |
| BA PS 102 | Political Theory (Concepts and Debates) | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to Political Theory, Concepts: State, Power, Sovereignty, Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Concepts: Rights, Law, Citizenship, Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism |
| BA CC 101 | Food, Nutrition and Hygiene | Co-curricular | 2 | Basic Concepts of Food and Nutrition, Nutrients, Balanced Diet, and Malnutrition, Food Adulteration and Food Safety, Personal and Environmental Hygiene, Common Health Problems and Prevention |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 201 | Indian Government and Politics | Core (Major) | 4 | Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Union Legislature: Parliament (Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha), Indian Judiciary and Judicial Review, Electoral Process and Political Parties in India |
| BA PS 202 | Indian Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Manu), Modern Indian Political Thought (Gandhi, Ambedkar), Thought of Vivekananda, Tagore, Nehru, Subaltern Perspectives on Indian Society, Social Reform Movements and Political Ideas |
| BA CC 201 | Human Values and Environmental Studies | Co-curricular | 2 | Ethics and Human Values in Society, Environmental Concepts and Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its Conservation, Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Control Measures, Sustainable Development Goals and Challenges |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 301 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core (Major) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems (UK, USA, China), Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems and Party Systems, Federalism and Unitary Systems |
| BA PS 302 | Public Administration | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization and Management, Bureaucracy and Good Governance, Accountability and Control in Administration, Public Policy: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation |
| BA SEC 301 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Social Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Qualitative, Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 401 | International Relations | Core (Major) | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Globalisation and its Impact on World Politics, Contemporary Global Challenges (Terrorism, Climate Change) |
| BA PS 402 | Western Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient Greek Political Thought (Plato, Aristotle), Medieval Political Thought (Machiavelli), Social Contract Theorists (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Utilitarianism (Bentham, J.S. Mill), Marx and Feminist Political Thought |
| BA SEC 402 | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Nature and Formation of Public Opinion, Methods of Survey Research, Questionnaire Design and Interviewing, Sampling Techniques and Data Analysis, Role of Media and Public Opinion |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 501 | Governance and Public Policy in India | Core (Major) | 4 | Good Governance Initiatives in India, E-Governance and Digital India, Public Policy Process: Agenda Setting, Implementation, Key Public Policies (Health, Education, Poverty Alleviation), Citizen and Administration Interface |
| BA PS 502 | Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India | Core (Major) | 4 | Models of Development in India (Nehruvian, Liberalization), Challenges of Development (Poverty, Inequality), New Social Movements (Environmental, Dalit, Women), Role of NGOs and Civil Society in Development, Globalization and its Impact on Indian Development |
| BA PS DSE 501 | Human Rights, Gender and Environment (Elective) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Gender and Politics, Women''''s Rights in India, Environmental Politics and Justice, Role of State and Civil Society in Human Rights Protection, International Conventions and India''''s Commitments |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA PS 601 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core (Major) | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal), India''''s Role in Global Institutions (UN, WTO, BRICS) |
| BA PS 602 | Local Self-Government in India | Core (Major) | 4 | Evolution of Local Self-Government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functions, Finances, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporations, Councils, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| BA PS DSE 602 | Project/Dissertation on Contemporary Political Issues | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) / Project | 6 | Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology: Data Collection and Analysis, Results, Discussion, and Conclusion, Report Writing, Presentation, and Viva Voce |
