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M-A in Political Science at MD. SHAHBAN MEMORIAL MAHAVIDYALAYA
Ballia, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at MD. SHAHBAN MEMORIAL MAHAVIDYALAYA Ballia?
This M.A. Political Science program at Md. Shahban Memorial Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Jananayak Chandrashekhar University, offers a rigorous exploration of political theories, systems, and global affairs, with a significant focus on the Indian context. Students delve into historical and contemporary political thought, public administration, international relations, and the intricate dynamics of Indian governance. The curriculum is designed to cultivate critical thinking and analytical capabilities, preparing graduates to understand and engage with complex political challenges and policy frameworks within India''''s diverse democratic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideally suited for fresh graduates holding a Bachelor''''s degree, particularly in Political Science, Public Administration, History, or Sociology, who are keen on careers in civil services, academia, journalism, or policy research. It also attracts working professionals in governmental or non-profit sectors aiming to enhance their conceptual understanding and practical insights into political processes. Individuals with a strong interest in societal development, governance, and international relations, aspiring to contribute to public life in India, will find this specialization highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can anticipate a range of career opportunities across India''''s public and private sectors. Promising roles include Civil Servants (UPSC/State PSC), political analysts, legislative assistants, journalists, researchers, policy consultants, and educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum, with significant potential for growth for experienced professionals, often exceeding INR 10-15 Lakhs per annum in leadership or specialized roles. The M.A. also provides a robust academic foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees, fostering careers in higher education and advanced research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to mastering core political theories and thinkers from both Western and Indian traditions. Read foundational texts, actively participate in class discussions, and form study groups to deepen conceptual understanding. Regular review of complex theories will solidify your analytical framework.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE via institutional access), Classic political theory texts, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A robust theoretical understanding is critical for excelling in competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services or State PCS, where analytical essays and general studies papers demand conceptual clarity and an informed perspective.
Develop Research & Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on the Research Methodology course to grasp the fundamentals of research design, data collection, and analysis. Practice structuring arguments, reviewing literature, and refining your academic writing through regular essay submissions and seeking constructive feedback from professors.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Citation management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), University writing center support, Faculty feedback sessions
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are indispensable for careers in policy analysis, academic research, journalism, and think tanks. They also enable articulate and well-reasoned responses in competitive examinations.
Stay Updated with Indian Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a daily habit of reading leading Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), reputable news magazines (e.g., Frontline, Yojana), and online political analysis platforms. Actively connect contemporary events and policy developments to the political theories and concepts being studied in class.
Tools & Resources
Daily national newspapers, News apps, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates, Reputable current affairs podcasts
Career Connection
Crucial for success in civil services exams, media careers, and for developing a comprehensive, nuanced understanding of India''''s political landscape, which is highly valued in public policy and governance roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Critical Policy Analysis- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical frameworks from comparative politics and public administration to critically analyze contemporary Indian policies and governance challenges. Participate in policy-related debates, case studies, and essay competitions to refine your analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Government reports (e.g., NITI Aayog), Parliamentary debates and legislative analyses (e.g., PRS Legislative Research), Policy briefs and scholarly articles, Public policy forums
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles in policy think tanks, governmental organizations, and advocacy groups that require the ability to critically evaluate and contribute to public policy formulation and implementation.
Deepen Expertise in Indian Political Dynamics- (Semester 3)
Concentrate on courses like ''''Indian Government and Politics'''' and ''''India''''s Foreign Policy,'''' and choose optional papers that delve into India-specific issues like ''''Local Self Government.'''' Understand the intricacies of India''''s federal system, electoral processes, socio-political movements, and the role of caste, religion, and language.
Tools & Resources
The Constitution of India, Reports from the Election Commission of India, Academic journals on Indian politics, Field visits or virtual tours of local governance bodies
Career Connection
This specialized knowledge is indispensable for civil services, journalism focused on Indian affairs, political consulting, and administrative roles within the Indian government at all levels.
Network and Seek Academic Mentorship- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, guest lectures, and academic workshops. Build professional relationships with faculty, alumni, and visiting scholars. Seek informal mentorship to gain insights into diverse career paths and receive guidance for academic and professional growth in the political science domain.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms, University alumni association events, Faculty office hours, Career counseling cells
Career Connection
Effective networking can unlock internship opportunities, research collaborations, and job referrals. Mentors offer invaluable advice on navigating academic challenges and forging a successful career path in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Substantial Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
For ''''POLSC404 Dissertation/Project,'''' select a research topic that aligns with your interests and has practical relevance, preferably addressing a contemporary Indian political challenge. Conduct thorough primary and secondary research, analyze data rigorously, and present your findings professionally in the dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology handbooks, Statistical software (if applicable), University research grant opportunities, Dedicated faculty supervision
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful testament to independent research capability, analytical rigor, and subject expertise, highly valued by employers in research, policy analysis, and for pursuing further academic degrees.
Rigorous Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4 and post-graduation)
If aspiring for civil services or other government sector roles, initiate dedicated and focused preparation. Integrate the M.A. syllabus knowledge with general studies and optional subject preparation. Consistently practice mock tests, current affairs quizzes, and essay writing under timed conditions.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes (if desired), Online test series platforms, Previous year question papers of UPSC/State PCS, Forming dedicated study groups
Career Connection
This practice forms a direct pathway to prestigious careers in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Police Service (IPS), and various state civil services, offering significant impact and leadership opportunities.
Seek Practical Internship and Fieldwork Opportunities- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks))
Actively pursue internships with non-governmental organizations, political consulting firms, media houses, or government departments during academic breaks or alongside studies. Gaining hands-on experience in real-world settings is crucial for applying theoretical knowledge and understanding organizational dynamics.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct outreach to relevant organizations, Departmental internship guidance
Career Connection
Practical experience is invaluable for understanding the application of political science, building a professional network, and significantly enhancing employability in India''''s competitive job market across public and private sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC101 | Western Political Thought | Core | 5 | Greek Political Thought (Plato, Aristotle), Medieval Political Thought (Machiavelli), Social Contract Theorists (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Utilitarianism (Bentham, J.S. Mill), Marxist Political Theory |
| POLSC102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 5 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Modern Indian Political Thinkers (Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Dayanand Saraswati), Nationalist Thinkers (Gokhale, Tilak, Gandhi, Nehru), Social Reformers (Ambedkar, Lohia), Hindutva Ideology (Savarkar) |
| POLSC103 | Political Theory: Concepts & Approaches | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Political Theory, State, Sovereignty, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy, Citizenship, Political Development, Political Culture, Political Socialization |
| POLSC104 | Public Administration: Theory & Practice | Core | 5 | Nature & Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy, Decision Making, Leadership, Communication, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Accountability and Control |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC201 | Comparative Politics | Core | 5 | Nature & Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches, Political System, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Development and Underdevelopment |
| POLSC202 | International Relations: Theory & Practice | Core | 5 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Non-Alignment, United Nations and Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), Global Terrorism, Disarmament, International Political Economy |
| POLSC203 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 5 | Meaning & Scope of Research, Scientific Method, Research Design, Types of Research, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques, Hypothesis Formulation, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| POLSC204 | Human Rights | Core | 5 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India (Constitutional Provisions, NHRC), Rights of Women, Children, Minorities, Indigenous People, Environmental Rights, Human Rights and Globalization, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC301 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 5 | Constitutional Development, Preamble, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Federalism, Union Executive (President, Prime Minister), Parliament, Judiciary (Supreme Court), Election Commission, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Caste, Religion, Language in Indian Politics |
| POLSC302 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 5 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and SAARC, India and UN, India''''s Nuclear Policy, Economic Diplomacy, Look East/Act East Policy, India in a Changing World Order |
| POLSC303 | Local Self Government in India (Rural & Urban) | Optional Elective | 5 | Evolution of Local Self Government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functions, Finances, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, Nagar Panchayats, Problems and Prospects of Local Self Government |
| POLSC304 | Indian Administration | Optional Elective | 5 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Colonial Legacy, Constitutional Framework of Indian Administration, Central Administration (Secretariat, Ministries, Cabinet Secretariat), State Administration, District Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, Ethics in Administration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC401 | Global Politics and International Organizations | Core | 5 | Globalization and its Impact on World Politics, New International Economic Order, Environmental Politics, Human Rights Issues in Global Context, United Nations System and its Specialized Agencies, International Criminal Court, WTO, World Bank, IMF |
| POLSC402 | Political Process in India | Core | 5 | Electoral Process and Reforms in India, Dynamics of Party System, Pressure Groups and Social Movements, Regionalism, Communalism, Caste Politics in India, Language Politics, Gender and Politics, Media and Politics, Coalition Politics |
| POLSC403 | Political Economy of India | Optional Elective | 5 | Colonial Legacy and Economic Underdevelopment, Planning in India, Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization (LPG), Agrarian Reforms, Industrial Policy, Poverty, Inequality, Regional Disparities, Role of State and Market in Indian Economy |
| POLSC404 | Dissertation/Project | Core/Project | 5 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation of Findings |
