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MA in Political Science at Maharaja Agrasen College of Commerce
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Maharaja Agrasen College of Commerce Deoria?
This MA Political Science program at Maharaja Agrasen College of Commerce, Deoria, affiliated with DDUGU, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and processes, both Indian and international. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills for public policy, governance, and international relations, addressing contemporary challenges and developments relevant to the Indian socio-political landscape. It integrates traditional thought with modern analytical approaches to provide a holistic view.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Political Science, History, Economics, or Sociology seeking to delve deeper into governance, public administration, and international affairs. It also caters to aspiring civil servants, policy analysts, journalists, and educators looking to enhance their theoretical foundations and practical insights into political dynamics within the Indian context and beyond.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), think tanks, journalism, advocacy, teaching, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals in policy research, public relations, and international organizations, contributing to India''''s public and private sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core political theories (Indian, Western, Modern) and concepts of Indian governance. Actively participate in classroom discussions and seek clarity on foundational ideas, as these will be built upon in later semesters. Understand the philosophical underpinnings of political thought.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba for Political Theory, D.D. Basu for Indian Constitution), Academic journals accessible via DDUGU library, Online lectures from NPTEL or Swayam, Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
A robust theoretical base is essential for success in competitive exams like Civil Services and provides the analytical framework needed for informed policy analysis and research roles.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with primary texts, diverse political perspectives, and contemporary events. Practice summarizing complex arguments, identifying logical fallacies, and formulating reasoned opinions. This involves reading reputable news analysis beyond prescribed textbooks.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express opinion sections), Political science journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Online academic databases, Book clubs focusing on political literature
Career Connection
Crucial for research-oriented roles, journalism, and effective policy formulation, where assessing information critically and articulating arguments clearly are paramount for professional growth.
Initiate Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form small study groups with classmates to discuss challenging concepts, clarify doubts, and prepare for internal assessments. Engage in constructive debates on current political issues, which helps in articulating views and understanding different perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms or study areas, Online group chat platforms (WhatsApp, Telegram), Whiteboards or digital collaborative tools for concept mapping
Career Connection
Enhances communication, teamwork, and presentation skills, which are highly valued in any professional setting, especially in collaborative policy environments and public speaking roles.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization and Practical Application- (Semester 3)
As you progress into Semester 3, strategically select your Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) based on your career interests. Actively apply theoretical knowledge from comparative politics and public policy to current Indian and global issues through case studies and simulations.
Tools & Resources
Specialized readings for your chosen elective, Policy briefs from NITI Aayog or other Indian think tanks, Mock policy debates and presentations in class
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a chosen sub-field, making you a more competitive candidate for specialized roles in policy analysis, international affairs, or specific governmental departments.
Start Preparing for Competitive Exams- (Semester 3)
If aiming for civil services (UPSC, State PSCs) or other government jobs, begin dedicated preparation during this stage. Focus on General Studies relevant to Political Science, current affairs, and practice essay writing and analytical question-answering techniques.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC syllabi and previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms or local coaching centers, Current affairs magazines (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan), Mock tests
Career Connection
Direct preparation for desired career paths like civil services, significantly increasing your chances of success and providing a clear path to impactful public service roles in India.
Network with Faculty and Alumni- (Semester 3)
Engage with your professors beyond the classroom, seeking guidance on research interests, career paths, and potential internship opportunities. Connect with college alumni who have pursued careers in political science-related fields to gain insights and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, College alumni association platforms (if available), Professional networking sites like LinkedIn, Alumni meet-ups or college events
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and potential job referrals, providing valuable industry connections that can accelerate your career trajectory within the Indian professional landscape.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
The final semester''''s project or dissertation is a culmination of your learning. Choose a relevant, researchable topic, conduct thorough research using appropriate methodology, and produce a high-quality academic paper. Present your findings confidently during the viva-voce examination.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga for Indian theses), Research methodology textbooks, Referencing tools (e.g., Mendeley), Faculty mentors and research guides
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research, analytical, and writing skills, highly valued in academic, research, and policy-oriented careers. A strong project can also serve as a portfolio piece for job applications or higher studies.
Hone Interview and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in mock interviews and presentation workshops. Practice articulating your knowledge, research findings, and career aspirations clearly and concisely. Focus on current affairs, policy discussions, and your specialization to demonstrate subject mastery.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available), Online interview preparation guides and videos, Public speaking clubs, Peer feedback sessions on presentations
Career Connection
Essential for securing jobs in any sector, especially in competitive fields like civil services, think tanks, or corporate communications, where effective communication is key to career advancement.
Develop a Strategic Career Plan- (Semester 4)
By the final semester, have a clear career plan – whether it''''s higher studies, civil services, journalism, or NGO work. Tailor your resume/CV, cover letters, and application strategies to align with these specific goals. Attend career fairs or workshops focusing on relevant sectors.
Tools & Resources
College career counseling services, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), Career guidebooks specific to political science, Mentorship from professionals in your target field
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition from academics to a professional career, maximizing job search effectiveness and laying the groundwork for continuous professional growth in your chosen domain.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (BA) in Political Science or a related discipline from a recognized university, as per DDUGU norms.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 101 | Ancient Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Approaches to study ancient Indian political thought, Brahmanic tradition: Dharma, Danda, Nyaya, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra: State, administration, foreign policy, Buddhist thought: Sangha, non-violence, social order, Sukraniti: Statecraft, king''''s duties, social structure |
| POL 102 | Western Political Thought (From Plato to Hegel) | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, ideal state, philosophy king, Aristotle: State, citizenship, revolution, Machiavelli: Human nature, statecraft, power, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social contract theories, sovereignty, Bentham, J.S. Mill: Utilitarianism, liberty, democracy, Hegel: State, freedom, dialectics |
| POL 103 | Modern Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Meaning, nature, and scope of political science, Traditional and modern approaches to political analysis, Behaviouralism and Post-Behaviouralism, Systems theory and Structural-functionalism, Political culture, political socialization, political communication |
| POL 104 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constituent Assembly and making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Fundamental Duties, Federalism in India: Union-State relations, Electoral system and electoral reforms, Party system, pressure groups, role of caste and religion in politics |
| VAC 101 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Added Course (Common) | 4 | Concept of Constitution and Constitutionalism, Preamble and its philosophy, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Rule of Law, Justice, Liberty, Equality, Fraternity |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 201 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Social reforms, liberalism, Swami Dayanand Saraswati: Arya Samaj, nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, non-violence, B.R. Ambedkar: Social justice, anti-caste movement, M.N. Roy: Radical humanism, Pt. Deendayal Upadhyay: Integral Humanism |
| POL 202 | International Relations Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and scope of International Relations, Idealism and Realism, Liberalism and Neo-liberalism, Marxism and Neo-Marxism, Constructivism, Feminism, Post-structuralism |
| POL 203 | Public Administration (Theory and Practice) | Core | 4 | Meaning, nature, and scope of Public Administration, Classical theories: Scientific management, Bureaucracy, Human Relations theory, Decision-making theory, Public policy: Formulation, implementation, evaluation, E-governance, Good Governance, New Public Management |
| POL 204 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, types, and significance of research, Research design: Exploratory, descriptive, experimental, Methods of data collection: Primary and secondary, Sampling techniques, data analysis and interpretation, Report writing, thesis preparation, ethics in research |
| POL 205 (A) | Human Rights | Elective (DSE) | 4 | Meaning, concept, and evolution of human rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human rights in India: Constitutional provisions, National Human Rights Commission, State Human Rights Commissions, International Human Rights Law and organizations |
| POL 205 (B) | Contemporary Political Issues | Elective (DSE) | 4 | Globalisation and its political impact, Environmentalism and climate change politics, Terrorism: Causes, consequences, global response, Identity politics: Caste, religion, gender, Regionalism, good governance, civil society |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 301 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature, scope, and methods of comparative politics, Approaches to comparative politics: Institutional, structural-functional, Political culture, political socialization, political development, Political parties, electoral systems, pressure groups, Regimes and political systems: Democracies, authoritarian states |
| POL 302 | Theories of Public Policy | Core | 4 | Nature and scope of public policy, Models of policy making: Rational, incremental, group, Policy implementation and policy evaluation, Role of state, market, and civil society in policy making, E-governance and good governance for effective policy delivery |
| POL 303 | Strategic Studies | Core | 4 | Meaning, nature, and scope of strategic studies, Nuclear deterrence, arms control, disarmament, Geopolitics and its relevance in international relations, National security concepts and challenges, Non-alignment movement, India''''s strategic autonomy |
| POL 304 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature, scope, and approaches of political sociology, Power, authority, and legitimacy, Elite theory and class analysis, Political participation, civil society, social movements, State and society relationship, democracy and development |
| POL 305 (A) | Geopolitics | Elective (DSE) | 4 | Meaning and scope of geopolitics, Theories of geopolitics: Mahan, Mackinder, Spykman, Energy security and resource geopolitics, Geopolitics of South Asia, Indian Ocean region, Changing global geopolitical order |
| POL 305 (B) | Area Studies (South Asia) | Elective (DSE) | 4 | Political systems and governance in SAARC countries, Regional cooperation in South Asia: SAARC, BIMSTEC, Bilateral relations of India with its neighbours (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal), Ethnic conflicts and security challenges in South Asia, Economic integration and development in the region |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 401 | Political Ideologies | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Classical and modern forms, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism: Liberal, radical, socialist, Anarchism, Fascism, Environmentalism, Nationalism and Populism |
| POL 402 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s foreign policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its relevance, India and the United Nations, India and SAARC, India-US relations, India-China relations, India-Pakistan relations, India''''s Look East/Act East policy |
| POL 403 | Human Security | Core | 4 | Concept of security: Traditional vs. human security, Components of human security: Economic, food, health, environmental, Personal, community, and political security, Threats to human security: Poverty, pandemics, natural disasters, Role of state and international organizations in ensuring human security |
| POL 404 | Rural and Urban Local Government in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of local self-government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, Panchayat Raj Institutions: Structure, functions, finance, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal corporations, committees, nagar panchayats, Decentralization, local planning, challenges and reforms |
| POL 405 (A) | Project/Dissertation/Viva | Project | 4 | Identification of research topic, Literature review and theoretical framework, Data collection and analysis, Structure and writing of dissertation, Oral presentation and viva-voce examination |
