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MA in Political Science at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith Varanasi?
This MA Political Science program at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, Varanasi focuses on an in-depth understanding of political theories, systems, and dynamics, with a strong emphasis on both Indian and global contexts. It equips students with critical analytical skills to comprehend complex political phenomena, historical developments, and contemporary issues. The program is designed to meet the evolving demands for skilled political analysts, policymakers, and academics in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science, History, Economics, or Sociology, who aspire to careers in public service, research, journalism, or academia. It also suits working professionals, including government employees or NGO workers, seeking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and enhance their policy analysis capabilities. Individuals aiming for civil services or further doctoral research will find this program particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government (civil services, policy analysts), think tanks, research institutions, media houses as political commentators, and teaching positions. Entry-level salaries for researchers or junior analysts typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters critical thinking and communication skills essential for leadership roles and aligns with various competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand Western and Indian Political Thought. Create concept maps for each thinker, outlining their core ideas, criticisms, and historical context. Regularly revise key terms and theories to build a strong theoretical base for advanced study.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Jstor, UPSC political science optional notes, Online lectures by Indian academics
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services and for advanced research, enabling nuanced policy analysis and critical thinking in professional roles.
Develop Strong Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in class discussions and write critical essays on political concepts. Practice structuring arguments logically and backing them with evidence from diverse sources. Participate in departmental seminars and present your views confidently to hone your analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Reliable news analyses (The Hindu, Indian Express), Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for roles in policy analysis, journalism, research, and academia, enhancing your ability to interpret complex political situations and contribute insightful reports.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss difficult concepts, debate different perspectives on political issues, and prepare for exams collectively. Teaching others reinforces your own understanding and exposes you to new viewpoints, fostering collaborative learning.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp groups, Google Docs for collaborative note-taking, Local study circles
Career Connection
Builds teamwork and communication skills, valuable in any professional environment, especially collaborative research or policy-making teams where diverse perspectives are essential.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Independent Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Beyond regular assignments, identify a topic of interest aligned with courses like Research Methodology (POL 302) and conduct a mini-research project. This can involve primary data collection (surveys, interviews) or an in-depth literature review, culminating in a short paper or presentation.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, University databases, Local government/NGO contacts for data, Statistical software (basic R/SPSS if applicable, or Excel)
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills, essential for think tanks, academic research, and policy-oriented roles where data-driven insights are valued and required for informed decision-making.
Engage with Current Affairs and Policy Debates- (Semester 3)
Actively follow Indian and international political developments through reputable news sources, policy journals, and debates. Participate in mock parliamentary sessions or policy formulation challenges to apply theoretical knowledge to contemporary issues and enhance critical awareness.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research, Observer Research Foundation, Carnegie India
Career Connection
Crucial for civil services, journalism, and think tank roles, enabling you to stay updated, articulate informed opinions, and contribute meaningfully to public policy discussions.
Build Professional Networking through Seminars- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, seminars, and workshops organized by the department, other universities, or think tanks focusing on political science. Engage with faculty, guest speakers, and senior students to expand your academic and professional network and gain exposure to diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University event calendars, Academic conference listings
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, collaborative opportunities, and potential job leads in the political science ecosystem, fostering connections that can lead to future career advancements.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work for Career Advantage- (Semester 4)
Approach your final semester Project Work (POL 404) with utmost dedication. Choose a topic that aligns with your career aspirations and allows for in-depth analysis, showcasing your research and analytical prowess. A strong dissertation can be a powerful portfolio piece for job applications.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Faculty mentorship, Advanced academic databases, Specialized software for qualitative/quantitative analysis if needed
Career Connection
A distinguished project is a direct demonstration of your expertise, highly valued by employers in research, policy, and higher education, setting you apart from other candidates.
Prepare Strategically for Competitive Exams/Placements- (Semester 4)
If aiming for civil services or other competitive exams, begin intensive preparation, focusing on Political Science as an optional subject, alongside general studies. For placements, refine your resume/CV, practice interview skills, and research potential employers in relevant sectors.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if chosen), Online test series, Mock interviews, Career counselling services, LinkedIn for job searches
Career Connection
Directly translates into successful outcomes in civil services examinations or securing entry-level positions in relevant organizations, providing a clear pathway to your chosen career.
Cultivate Leadership and Mentorship Roles- (Semester 4)
Take initiative in leading student clubs, organizing academic events, or mentoring junior students. This demonstrates leadership, organizational skills, and a commitment to the academic community, which are highly regarded traits in any professional environment.
Tools & Resources
Departmental student bodies, College cultural/academic committees
Career Connection
Develops soft skills crucial for managerial and leadership positions in any field, enhancing your overall professional profile and preparing you for greater responsibilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (BA/BSc/BCom) in a relevant discipline from a recognized university, with a minimum percentage as per university norms.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 101 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Education, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, Hobbes: Social Contract, Absolute Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Bentham: Utilitarianism, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Hegel: Dialectics, State as an Ethical Idea, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Gramsci: Hegemony, State and Civil Society |
| POL 102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Manu: Law, Dharma, State, Kautilya: Saptanga Theory, Danda, Shukra: Shukraniti, State Administration, Rammohan Roy: Rationalism, Social Reform, Dayanand Saraswati: Arya Samaj, Swaraj, Vivekanand: Ideal Society, Nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Ahimsa, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Annihilation of Caste, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism, Jai Prakash Narayan: Total Revolution, Deendayal Upadhyay: Integral Humanism, Lohia: Socialism, Four-Pillar State |
| POL 103 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Importance of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Scientific Management, Human Relations, Bureaucracy: Max Weber''''s concept, criticism, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Personnel Administration: Recruitment, Training, Promotion, Concept of Good Governance and E-governance |
| POL 104 | Principles of International Relations | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Cold War: Origins, Phases, End, Non-Alignment Movement: Objectives, Relevance, Disarmament and Arms Control, Globalization: Concept and Impact |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 201 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Hobbes: Leviathan, State of Nature, Locke: Two Treatises of Government, Rousseau: Social Contract, General Will, Hegel: Philosophy of Right, Spirit, Marx: Capitalism, Revolution, Communism, Gramsci: Cultural Hegemony, Hannah Arendt: Totalitarianism, Human Condition, John Rawls: Theory of Justice, Veil of Ignorance, Robert Nozick: Entitlement Theory, Minimal State |
| POL 202 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Significance of Political Theory, State: Sovereignty, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Rights: Types, Theories, Liberty: Negative and Positive, Equality: Dimensions, Justice: Theories, Democracy: Theories, Challenges, Marxism: Basic tenets, critiques, Feminism: Waves, perspectives, Postmodernism: Deconstruction, discourse |
| POL 203 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics: Traditional, Modern, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Political Development and Modernization, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government, Party Systems and Pressure Groups, Electoral Systems: Types, Impact |
| POL 204 | Major Political Systems | Core | 4 | Constitution of UK: Features, Monarchy, Parliament, Constitution of USA: Federalism, Presidency, Supreme Court, Constitution of China: Communist Party, National People''''s Congress, Constitution of Switzerland: Direct Democracy, Federalism, Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary in selected systems |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 301 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Salient Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Union Legislature: Parliament, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Union Judiciary: Supreme Court, Judicial Review, State Government: Governor, Chief Minister, State Legislature, Federalism in India: Challenges, Co-operative Federalism, Election Commission: Role, Electoral Reforms |
| POL 302 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Importance of Social Science Research, Types of Research: Pure, Applied, Descriptive, Exploratory, Research Design: Formulation of Hypothesis, Variables, Methods of Data Collection: Interview, Questionnaire, Observation, Sampling Techniques: Probability, Non-Probability, Data Analysis: Interpretation, Coding, Report Writing: Structure, Referencing |
| POL 303 | Foreign Policy of Major Powers | Core | 4 | Determinants of Foreign Policy: Internal and External, Foreign Policy of USA: Hegemony, Challenges, Foreign Policy of China: Rise, Belt and Road Initiative, Foreign Policy of Russia: Eurasianism, Energy Politics, Foreign Policy of European Union: Integration, Global Role |
| POL 304 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Sources of International Law, Subjects of International Law: States, International Organizations, Recognition: Types, Theories, State Succession: Theories, Cases, United Nations: Organs, Peacekeeping, Reforms, Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, EU, AU |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 401 | Human Rights and Environment | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, NHRC, Environmental Politics: Green Theories, Eco-feminism, Sustainable Development: Goals, Challenges, Climate Change: Global Warming, International Agreements (Paris Agreement), Environmental Movements in India |
| POL 402 | Global Governance | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Global Governance, Actors in Global Governance: UN, WTO, IMF, World Bank, Globalization: Economic, Political, Cultural Impacts, Transnational Corporations: Role and Influence, International Terrorism: Causes, Responses, Human Security vs. State Security, Global Challenges: Poverty, Inequality, Migration |
| POL 403 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture: Types, Dimensions, Political Socialization: Agents, Impact, Elites: Theories, Types (Power Elite, Ruling Class), Mass Media and Politics: Role, Influence, Political Participation: Voting Behavior, Protest Movements, Civil Society: Role in Democracy |
| POL 404 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review and Problem Formulation, Development of Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Dissertation Structure, Oral Presentation and Defense |
