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BA-HONS in Political Science at Mahitosh Nandi Mahavidyalaya
Hooghly, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Mahitosh Nandi Mahavidyalaya Hooghly?
This Political Science (Honours) program at Mahitosh Nandi Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and processes both domestically and globally. It explores India''''s unique political landscape, constitutional framework, and its position in international relations, preparing students for critical engagement with socio-political issues. The program emphasizes analytical thinking and research skills crucial for understanding the complexities of governance and public affairs.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in current affairs, public policy, and societal dynamics. It caters to those aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, social work, law, or academic research. Students with a background in humanities or social sciences seeking a rigorous academic foundation to critically analyze political phenomena and contribute to public discourse will find this specialization enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, policy research, advocacy, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in government, NGOs, or think tanks. The analytical and critical thinking skills developed are highly valued across sectors, offering excellent growth trajectories and pathways to postgraduate studies in political science, law, or international relations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental political concepts like liberty, equality, justice, and state. Utilize classic texts and secondary readings mentioned in the syllabus. Form study groups to discuss and clarify complex theories, building a strong conceptual base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
Standard Political Theory textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), JSTOR for academic articles (access through college library), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC/PSC) and for developing coherent arguments in policy analysis or journalism.
Engage with Indian Political News & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), follow reputable news channels, and participate in discussions on contemporary Indian political issues. This practice enhances understanding of theoretical concepts in a real-world, India-specific context and improves critical analysis skills.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express e-papers, Rajya Sabha TV/Lok Sabha TV debates, Reputable political analysis websites
Career Connection
Essential for civil services aspirants, political journalists, and policy researchers to stay updated and develop informed opinions.
Develop Academic Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving comprehension of academic texts and structuring well-reasoned essays. Practice summarizing articles, identifying main arguments, and writing short analytical pieces. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine academic writing, which is vital for university-level studies.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), Grammarly for grammar checks
Career Connection
Strong writing and analytical skills are universally valued in academia, research, civil services, and corporate communication roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with peers or individually on small research projects related to local governance, public policy implementation, or social movements in West Bengal or India. Apply survey research methods, conduct interviews, and analyze data to gain hands-on experience in political analysis.
Tools & Resources
Local government reports, NSSO/Census data, Google Forms for surveys, Basic statistical software (e.g., Excel)
Career Connection
Builds practical research skills essential for policy analysis, academic research, and roles in NGOs or think tanks.
Participate in Debates and Model Parliament- (Semester 3-5)
Join college debate clubs, participate in inter-collegiate political discussions, or organize Model Parliament/Mock Legislature sessions. This hones public speaking, argumentation, and understanding of legislative procedures, crucial for engaging effectively in public discourse.
Tools & Resources
College debate societies, Youth Parliament competitions, Online resources on parliamentary procedures
Career Connection
Develops confidence, communication skills, and leadership potential, beneficial for civil services, law, and political advocacy.
Explore Interdisciplinary Electives- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose Generic Electives (GEs) from related disciplines like Economics, History, or Sociology. This broadens your perspective, provides a holistic understanding of socio-political issues, and enhances your analytical toolkit, crucial for understanding complex Indian realities.
Tools & Resources
University syllabus for GE options, Consulting faculty from other departments
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary knowledge is highly valued in policy formulation, development sector, and competitive exams requiring a comprehensive understanding of society.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Civil Services/Postgraduate Entrance Exams- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE), State PSC exams, or entrance exams for top Indian universities (e.g., JNU, Delhi University) for postgraduate studies. Focus on general studies, optional subjects (Political Science), current affairs, and essay writing.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (if opting), Online mock tests platforms, Newspapers, magazines like Frontline
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after careers in Indian bureaucracy and public service, or pathways to advanced academic and research careers.
Undertake Internships with NGOs or Think Tanks- (Semester 6 (during semester break))
Seek out internships with prominent Indian NGOs working on governance, human rights, or development, or with public policy think tanks. This provides invaluable practical exposure to policy advocacy, grassroots work, and real-world political challenges.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Let''''sIntern, Official websites of NGOs (e.g., PRADAN, PRS Legislative Research), Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Offers practical experience, builds professional networks, and can lead to job opportunities in the social and development sectors in India.
Develop a Capstone Research Paper/Project- (Semester 6)
Work on a substantial research paper or project in your area of interest within Political Science, guided by a faculty mentor. This allows for in-depth exploration of a specific topic, demonstrating advanced research, analytical, and writing capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology guides, University library resources, Academic databases, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Showcases specialized knowledge and research aptitude, a significant advantage for postgraduate admissions, fellowships, and research-oriented roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with minimum 45% marks in aggregate and 50% in Political Science (if offered) or a related subject at the 10+2 level, or as per the norms of The University of Burdwan.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-I | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 6 | What is Political Theory?, Key Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy: Theories and Debates, State: Classical and Contemporary Debates, Power and Authority |
| PLSHCC-II | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core | 6 | The Constituent Assembly and the Constitution, Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Federalism and Centre-State Relations, Constitutional Amendments and Judicial Review |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-III | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates | Core | 6 | Citizenship: Theories and Practice, Sovereignty: Types and Challenges, Nation and Nationalism, Political Obligation and Civil Disobedience, Development and Underdevelopment |
| PLSHCC-IV | Political Process in India | Core | 6 | Parties and Party System in India, Elections and Electoral Reforms, Caste, Religion, and Politics, Regionalism and Language Politics, Social Movements and Protest |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theory of Communication, Types of Communication, Language of Communication, Writing Skills, Presentation Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-V | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government, Electoral Systems, Party Systems and Pressure Groups |
| PLSHCC-VI | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core | 6 | Meaning, Scope and Significance of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific Management, Bureaucracy), Concept of Good Governance, Role of Public Administration in a Developing Society, Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation |
| PLSHCC-VII | Perspectives on International Relations and World History | Core | 6 | Understanding International Relations: Theories and Approaches, Key Concepts: Power, Sovereignty, Security, War, Peace, Evolution of International System: Cold War, Post-Cold War, International Organizations: UN, WTO, Regional Groupings, Globalization and its Impact |
| SEC-1 | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Meaning and Importance of Public Opinion, Methods of Survey Research, Sampling Techniques, Questionnaire Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective (Choose from other disciplines, e.g., History/Economics/Sociology) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics as per selected GE paper from another discipline |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-VIII | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core | 6 | Comparing Democracies: USA, UK, China, Federalism and Unitary Systems, Legislatures: Functions and Powers, Executive: Presidential vs. Parliamentary, Judiciary: Role and Independence |
| PLSHCC-IX | Public Policy and Administration in India | Core | 6 | Public Policy: Nature and Theories, Policy Making Process in India, Social Welfare Policies: Health, Education, Poverty Alleviation, Decentralization and Local Self-Government, Citizen and Administration: Grievance Redressal |
| PLSHCC-X | Global Politics | Core | 6 | Contemporary Global Issues: Climate Change, Terrorism, Migration, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention, Global Governance and International Law, Rise of New Powers: India, China, Brazil, Challenges to State Sovereignty |
| SEC-2 | Legislative Practices and Procedures | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Structure and Functions of Parliament/State Legislatures, Law Making Process, Budgetary Process, Role of Committees, Legislative Accountability |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective (Choose from other disciplines, e.g., History/Economics/Sociology) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics as per selected GE paper from another discipline |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-XI | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: Citizenship, Constitution, Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Realism, Statecraft, Virtu and Fortuna, Hobbes: Social Contract, Leviathan, Absolute Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Property |
| PLSHCC-XII | Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 6 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Dharma, Danda, Statecraft, Kautilya: Arthashastra, Rajamandala Theory, Buddha and Jainism: Non-violence, Ethics, Medieval Political Thought: Sufi and Bhakti traditions, Early Modern Indian Thinkers: Ram Mohan Roy, Syed Ahmed Khan |
| DSE-1 | Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Understanding Human Rights: Origins and Evolution, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights Regimes: National and International, Human Rights in India: NHRC, SC role, Challenges to Human Rights |
| DSE-2 | Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, India''''s Development Trajectory since Independence, New Social Movements: Environmental, Women''''s, Peasant, Role of NGOs and Civil Society, Globalization and Social Transformation in India |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLSHCC-XIII | Modern Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Revolution, Hegel: Dialectics, State as Rational Reality, Arendt: Totalitarianism, Public and Private Spheres |
| PLSHCC-XIV | Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 6 | Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Non-violence, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Caste Annihilation, Tagore: Nationalism, Universalism, Nehru: Modernity, Secularism, Non-Alignment, Integral Humanism: Deendayal Upadhyaya |
| DSE-3 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal), India''''s Role in Global Institutions |
| DSE-4 | Feminism: Theory and Practice | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Understanding Patriarchy and Gender, Waves of Feminism: Liberal, Radical, Socialist, Feminist Debates on Family, Work, State, Gender and Development, Feminist Movements in India |
