.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-A in Political Science at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College Mayurbhanj?
This M.A. Political Science program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and global affairs. It covers Indian and Western political thought, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills essential for careers in research, civil services, and policy analysis, addressing critical contemporary challenges in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a bachelor''''s degree in any discipline, particularly those with a Political Science background, seeking entry into government jobs like civil services or careers in academia and think tanks. It also benefits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of governance and public policy, or individuals aspiring to contribute to social and political research.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as researchers, policy analysts, civil servants (IAS, IPS, state services), journalists, or educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in government and non-profit sectors. The program strengthens critical thinking, research skills, and an in-depth understanding of the Indian political landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational theories of political science, Indian and Western political thought, and international relations. Utilize lecture notes, recommended readings, and academic journals. Participate actively in classroom discussions to clarify doubts and build a strong conceptual base.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), Jstor for academic articles, College library resources
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC, OPSC, and UGC NET, and for advanced research in political studies.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Implement a consistent study schedule, focusing on active recall and spaced repetition for retention. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, prepare for mid-semester exams, and share diverse perspectives on political issues. Practice essay writing for theory papers.
Tools & Resources
Study planner apps, Collaborative online documents for group notes, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Effective study habits improve academic performance, essential for securing good grades and fellowships for further studies.
Engage with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines, and online news portals to connect theoretical concepts with real-world political developments in India and globally. Watch debates and analyses on current affairs channels. This enhances contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu e-paper, PRS Legislative Research for policy briefs, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Crucial for civil services exams, journalism, policy analysis, and staying informed as an active citizen.
Intermediate Stage
Hone Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in workshops on research methodology and data analysis. Take up minor research projects or term papers seriously, focusing on identifying a problem, collecting data (even secondary), and presenting findings logically. Develop critical thinking by analyzing different scholarly perspectives.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic data analysis (if applicable), Online research databases (JSTOR, Academia.edu), Reference management tools (Zotero)
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for M.Phil./Ph.D. pursuits, roles in think tanks, and policy research organizations.
Seek Internships and Field Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Actively search for internships with NGOs, local government bodies, political campaigns, or research organizations during semester breaks. This provides practical exposure to governance, advocacy, or policy implementation. Attend public lectures and seminars by political scientists and public figures.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites, College career cell for opportunities, Departmental notices
Career Connection
Practical experience enhances resumes, builds professional networks, and helps clarify career interests beyond academics.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Debates- (Semester 3-4)
Engage in inter-college debates, essay competitions, and paper presentations on contemporary political issues. This improves communication, public speaking, and persuasive writing skills, while also deepening understanding of diverse viewpoints and refining arguments.
Tools & Resources
Debating clubs, College literary society, Youth parliaments
Career Connection
Develops confidence and articulation, valuable for interviews for civil services, media roles, and academic presentations.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Align your final year studies with the syllabus of your target competitive exams (UPSC CSE, UGC NET, State PCS). Focus on mock tests, previous year papers, and developing concise answer writing techniques. Consider joining a coaching institute if needed, but prioritize self-study and syllabus integration.
Tools & Resources
Online mock test series, Standard guides for competitive exams, Current affairs magazines (Yojana, Kurukshetra)
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for top government positions and eligibility for Assistant Professorships and Junior Research Fellowships.
Develop a Strong Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a relevant and impactful research topic for your dissertation. Work closely with your supervisor, ensuring a well-structured methodology, thorough literature review, and coherent analysis. Aim for a high-quality academic output that showcases your research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Institutional Research guidelines, Statistical software if applicable, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is vital for academic career paths (Ph.D.) and demonstrates advanced research and critical thinking abilities to employers.
Network and Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Attend university career fairs, alumni networking events, and connect with professionals in your areas of interest on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship, refine your CV, and practice interview skills. Explore various career paths in policy, advocacy, civil society, and academia.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association contacts, College career counseling cell, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive networking leads to job opportunities, informational interviews, and helps in making informed career decisions post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 122 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-C1 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 6 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Medieval Indian Political Thought, Modern Indian Political Thought, Gandhian Political Philosophy, Ambedkar''''s Social and Political Ideas, Contemporary Indian Political Thinkers |
| PSC-C2 | Modern Political Theory | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Theory, Liberalism and its Evolution, Socialism and Marxism, Democracy and Citizenship, Justice and Equality, Post-Modernism and Critical Theory |
| PSC-C3 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 6 | Nature and Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism and Federalism, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Interest Groups and Social Movements, State in Developing Societies |
| PSC-C4 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 6 | Evolution of International Relations Theories, Realism and Liberalism, Marxist and Critical Approaches, International Law and Organizations, Foreign Policy Analysis, Globalization and Global Governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-C5 | Western Political Thought | Core | 6 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Politics and Constitution, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract, Hegel''''s Philosophy of State, Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| PSC-C6 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 6 | Constituent Assembly and Indian Constitution, Federalism in India, Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, Party System and Electoral Politics, Social Movements and Identities, Challenges to Indian Democracy |
| PSC-C7 | Public Administration | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy and Governance, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Good Governance and Reforms |
| PSC-C8 | International Organizations and Global Politics | Core | 6 | Evolution of International Organizations, United Nations System and its Organs, Regional Organizations (EU, ASEAN, SAARC), International Economic Organizations (WTO, IMF, World Bank), Global Environmental Politics, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-C9 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Meaning and Importance of Research, Types of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
| PSC-C10 | Contemporary Political Issues in India | Core | 6 | Identity Politics and Communalism, Caste and Gender in Indian Politics, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Environment and Development Politics, Governance Challenges and Corruption, Role of Media and Civil Society |
| PSC-C11 | Human Rights | Core | 6 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India (NHRC, SHRC), Women''''s and Children''''s Rights, Challenges to Human Rights in the 21st Century |
| PSC-C12 | State Politics in India | Core | 6 | Framework of State Politics, Role of Governor and Chief Minister, Regional Parties and Coalitions, Economic Development and Social Justice, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Centre-State Relations |
| PSC-DSE-1 | Political Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Social Stratification and Politics, Elites and Masses, Political Participation and Alienation, Political Development and Modernization |
| PSC-OEC-1 | Democracy and Human Rights | Open Elective Course | 4 | Concept of Democracy, Types of Democracies, Theories of Human Rights, UN and Human Rights, Human Rights in India, Challenges to Democracy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-C13 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 6 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Evolution of Non-Alignment, India and Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka), India and Regional Organizations (SAARC, BRICS), India''''s Role in Global Governance |
| PSC-C14 | Local Self Government in India | Core | 6 | Evolution of Local Self Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Panchayati Raj System (Rural), Urban Local Bodies (Municipalities, Corporations), Finances of Local Bodies, Challenges and Reforms |
| PSC-C15 | Environment and Politics | Core | 6 | Concept of Environmental Politics, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Global Governance, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Policies and Laws in India, Resource Conflicts and Environmental Justice |
| PSC-C16 | Gender and Politics | Core | 6 | Understanding Gender in Politics, Feminist Theories of State, Women''''s Political Participation, Gender and Public Policy, Women''''s Movements in India, Challenges to Gender Equality |
| PSC-DSE-2 | Development Administration | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Concept of Development Administration, Approaches to Development, Role of Bureaucracy in Development, Planning and Implementation, Rural and Urban Development Programs, Challenges of Development in India |
| PSC-OEC-2 | Governance and Public Policy | Open Elective Course | 4 | Concept of Governance, Good Governance Indicators, Public Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation and Evaluation, E-Governance, Role of Civil Society in Governance |
| PSC-DIS | Dissertation/Project | Dissertation | 6 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation and Viva Voce |
