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M-A in Political Science at Mahamaya Rajkiya Snatakottar Mahavidyalaya, Lalganj, Kaushambi
Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Mahamaya Rajkiya Snatakottar Mahavidyalaya, Lalganj, Kaushambi Kaushambi?
This M.A. Political Science program at Mahamaya Rajkiya Snatakottar Mahavidyalaya focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and global affairs. It covers Indian and Western political thought, public administration, international relations, and human rights, equipping students with analytical skills vital for understanding the complexities of governance and society in the Indian context. The program also delves into state politics and research methodologies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in any stream, particularly those with a background or keen interest in political science, history, or public administration. It is also suitable for working professionals in government, NGOs, or media seeking to deepen their knowledge and analytical capabilities in political dynamics, or career changers aiming for roles in public service, policy analysis, or academic research in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services, policy analysis, journalism, teaching, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 lakhs or more in government and policy roles. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, aligning with requirements for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts and Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time in the initial semesters to thoroughly understand fundamental political theories, Western and Indian political thought, and public administration. Utilize textbooks, reference books, and online academic resources to build a strong theoretical base. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex concepts and engage in debates.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), JSTOR, Google Scholar for academic articles, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust theoretical foundation is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, PSC) and for analytical roles in policy research or journalism, enabling effective interpretation of political events.
Develop Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, argumentation, and research paper presentation. Regularly practice writing answers for internal assessments and class assignments. Seek feedback from professors on structure, clarity, and logical flow of arguments. Read scholarly articles to understand academic writing styles.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Grammarly/QuillBot for drafting, Reviewing published journal articles
Career Connection
Excellent writing skills are indispensable for any professional role, particularly in policy drafting, reporting, academic research, and effective communication in government and media sectors.
Engage with Current Affairs and Policy Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, actively follow national and international news, especially those related to Indian politics, governance, and international relations. Participate in college debates, seminars, and discussions on contemporary policy issues. This connects theoretical knowledge with real-world application.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Livemint (national newspapers), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV for policy discussions, Local college debate clubs
Career Connection
Staying updated is vital for civil services aspirants, journalists, and policy analysts. It enhances general awareness and the ability to critically analyze political developments, making you a more informed and capable professional.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Apply research methodology knowledge by engaging in mini-research projects or surveys, even if not formally part of the curriculum. Seek out internships with local NGOs, political organizations, or government departments during semester breaks to gain practical exposure to policy implementation and grassroots politics.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/Excel for data analysis (basic level), Internshala, official NGO websites for opportunities, College faculty for project guidance
Career Connection
Practical experience through internships and research makes you a competitive candidate for entry-level positions in think tanks, NGOs, and public sector organizations in India, demonstrating hands-on skills.
Network with Faculty and Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend guest lectures, workshops, and departmental events. Build rapport with professors, who can provide mentorship, guidance for research, and career advice. Connect with alumni and professionals in relevant fields (e.g., civil servants, journalists, academics) through LinkedIn or college networking events.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni network platforms (if available), Departmental seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and potential job referrals. Strong professional connections are invaluable for navigating the Indian job market and understanding industry expectations.
Specialise through Electives and Advanced Readings- (Semester 3-4)
Leverage elective choices in areas like International Law, Human Rights, or Security and Geopolitics to develop a specialization. Beyond the syllabus, engage in advanced readings, MOOCs, or online courses related to your chosen area to build deeper expertise and differentiate your profile.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera, edX for specialized courses, Library resources for advanced books and journals, Faculty consultation for reading lists
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your value proposition for targeted roles in areas like international organizations, human rights advocacy, or strategic analysis. It also provides a clear focus for advanced studies or research.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams/Placements- (Semester 4 onwards)
For those aiming for civil services or other government jobs, begin intensive preparation, focusing on General Studies, Political Science optional paper, and current affairs. For placement, refine resume/CV, practice group discussions and interview skills. Utilize university career services for guidance.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC previous year papers, Coaching institute materials (if opted), Mock interviews and GD practice
Career Connection
Targeted preparation is essential for securing positions in highly competitive fields like civil services or for direct placements in research and policy organizations, ensuring career readiness.
Craft a High-Quality Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 4)
For Paper XVI (Dissertation), select a relevant and impactful research topic, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present findings professionally. This demonstrates independent research capability and in-depth knowledge in your chosen area.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Academic writing software (e.g., Mendeley for citations), Dedicated faculty supervisor
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a significant academic achievement, highly valued for further academic pursuits (Ph.D.) or research-oriented roles in think tanks and policy institutes, establishing your credibility as a researcher.
Develop Presentation and Public Speaking Skills- (Semester 4 onwards)
Regularly participate in seminars, conferences, and college events to present your research findings or views on political topics. Improve your public speaking skills, which are crucial for academic presentations, interviews, and advocacy roles. Join Toastmasters or similar clubs if available.
Tools & Resources
College debate societies, TED Talks for inspiration, Regular practice in front of peers
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are critical for leadership roles, public relations, teaching, and advocacy, enabling you to effectively articulate ideas and influence public discourse.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any stream from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Western Political Thought (From Plato to Gramsci) | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Politics, Machiavelli''''s Prince, Social Contract Theories (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), J.S. Mill''''s Liberty, Marxism and Gramsci''''s Hegemony |
| Paper II | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Systems, Structural-Functional), Political System: Typologies and Functions, Political Culture and Socialization, State and Non-State Actors, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government |
| Paper III | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy: Max Weber and its critiques, Decision Making and Communication in Administration, Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation, Personnel Administration and Financial Administration |
| Paper IV | International Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to International Politics (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Developments, Globalization and its impact on International Relations, International Political Economy, International Organizations (UN, EU, SAARC, ASEAN), Disarmament and Arms Control |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper V | Indian Political Thought (From Ancient to Modern) | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Dharma, Danda), Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Gandhian Political Thought (Satyagraha, Swaraj), Nehru''''s Vision of India, Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, M.N. Roy''''s Radical Humanism, Lohia''''s Socialism |
| Paper VI | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Indian Parliament: Structure and Functions, Judiciary: Supreme Court and High Courts, Indian Federalism, Electoral System and Election Commission |
| Paper VII | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Theories of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), International Covenants on Human Rights, Challenges to Human Rights in India |
| Paper VIII | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Research, Types of Research (Qualitative, Quantitative), Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Methods of Data Collection (Surveys, Interviews, Observation), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis, Interpretation and Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper IX | Principles of Political Science | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Science, Concept of State and its elements, Sovereignty: Monistic and Pluralistic Theories, Law: Sources and Kinds, Liberty, Equality, Justice: Concepts and Relations, Democracy: Theories and Challenges |
| Paper X | Politics of Developing Countries | Core | 4 | Characteristics of Developing Countries, Colonialism, Neo-colonialism and Underdevelopment, Theories of Development and Modernization, Role of State in Development, Challenges of Nation-Building, Political Instability and Democratization |
| Paper XI | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture: Types and Determinants, Political Socialization: Agents and Processes, Political Participation and Mobilization, Elites: Theories and Power Dynamics, Caste, Class, and Politics in India |
| Paper XII | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Nature of State Politics in India, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Role of Language and Ethnicity in State Politics, Caste and Religion in State Politics, Centre-State Relations: Issues and Dynamics, Party System and Coalition Politics at State Level |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper XIII | Contemporary Political Analysis | Core | 4 | End of Ideology Debate, Political Modernization and Development, Political Decay and Underdevelopment, Political System Analysis (David Easton, Gabriel Almond), New Social Movements, Post-Modernism in Political Science |
| Paper XIV | Security and Geopolitics | Core | 4 | Concept of National Security: Traditional and Non-Traditional, Theories of Geopolitics, India''''s Security Concerns and Strategic Culture, Nuclear Proliferation and Disarmament, Terrorism and Cyber Security, Environmental Security |
| Paper XV | International Law | Elective | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, Recognition of States and Governments, State Jurisdiction and Immunities, Law of the Sea, International Criminal Law and Human Rights Law, Peaceful Settlement of Disputes |
| Paper XVI | Dissertation/Project Work/Viva Voce | Elective/Project | 4 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review and Research Questions, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation of Findings, Structure and Writing of Dissertation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
