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B-A in Political Science at Melkar Degree College
Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Melkar Degree College Dakshina Kannada?
This Political Science program at Melkar Women''''s Degree College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance, with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into the nuances of Indian administration, international relations, and public policy, preparing students to critically analyze contemporary political challenges. The program aims to cultivate informed citizens and future leaders for various sectors in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for young women keen on understanding the mechanics of power, governance, and public life. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to careers in civil services, journalism, non-profit organizations, or social work in India. Students with a strong interest in current affairs, critical thinking, and a desire to contribute to societal development will find this specialization particularly rewarding, fostering intellectual growth and civic responsibility.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in public administration (UPSC/KPSC exams), political analysis, policy research, advocacy, journalism, and teaching. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with significant growth potential in government or established NGOs. The analytical and critical thinking skills acquired are highly valued, enabling graduates to pursue higher studies in political science, public administration, or international relations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Political Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time daily to reading newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable online news sources to stay updated on Indian and global political developments. Focus on understanding key constitutional concepts and political ideologies taught in classes. Maintain a glossary of political terms.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu e-paper, PRS Legislative Research, NCERT Political Science textbooks, College library resources
Career Connection
Develops strong general knowledge and current affairs awareness, crucial for civil services exams and informed political analysis.
Cultivate Analytical and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions and debates, challenging assumptions and forming well-reasoned arguments. Practice writing analytical essays on political topics, seeking feedback from professors to refine critical thinking and persuasive writing skills, which are vital for academic excellence and future careers.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Scholarly articles, Peer study groups, Writing centers (if available)
Career Connection
Essential for policy analysis, research roles, journalism, and effective communication in any professional setting.
Engage with Local Governance and Social Issues- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities to understand local political processes and social issues in Dakshina Kannada. This could involve attending local Panchayat meetings (if permissible), volunteering with community organizations, or undertaking small projects related to local governance.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, College social responsibility initiatives, Community development programs
Career Connection
Provides practical exposure to ground-level administration and social challenges, valuable for careers in social work, local government, or development.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization Through Electives & Research- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Political Science electives (MDSEs) that align with specific interests, such as International Relations, Public Administration, or Political Thought. Start exploring basic research methodology, identifying potential research topics for later projects or internships, focusing on India-specific political issues.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Shodhganga, E-PG Pathshala, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
Builds expertise in a sub-field, highly beneficial for higher studies, think tanks, or specialized policy roles.
Gain Practical Exposure Through Internships- (Semester 4-5)
Actively look for internships with NGOs, political consulting firms, legislative bodies (MP/MLA offices), or research organizations in Karnataka or major Indian cities. Even short-term internships provide invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Internshala, Organizational websites
Career Connection
Offers hands-on experience, makes resumes stand out, and provides critical insights into potential career paths and industry requirements.
Develop Public Speaking and Debate Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Join college debate clubs, moot court societies (if available), or public speaking platforms. Participate in inter-college competitions. This hones oral communication, argumentation, and presentation skills, which are crucial for civil services interviews, political commentary, and leadership roles.
Tools & Resources
Debate societies, Public speaking workshops, Online resources like Toastmasters International
Career Connection
Enhances communication and leadership abilities, highly valued in advocacy, journalism, teaching, and administrative roles.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6 (intensive focus))
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services, KPSC, or other state PSC examinations. This involves intensive study of General Studies, Current Affairs, and potentially choosing Political Science as an optional subject. Join coaching classes or self-study groups.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year question papers, Government publications
Career Connection
Direct pathway to prestigious careers in Indian civil services, offering stability and significant societal impact.
Finalize Research Project/Internship and Network- (Semester 6)
Complete the mandatory internship or research project with utmost dedication, ensuring a high-quality output. Use this opportunity to network with professionals in the field, seeking guidance for future career or academic pursuits. Attend seminars and workshops.
Tools & Resources
Project guides, Industry mentors, Professional networking events, Alumni network
Career Connection
Provides a strong portfolio piece, builds professional connections for job referrals, and clarifies career aspirations.
Explore Postgraduate and Career Opportunities- (Semester 6)
Research various postgraduate options like MA in Political Science, Public Administration, International Relations, or Law (LLB) from reputable Indian universities. Prepare statements of purpose and gather recommendation letters. Simultaneously, apply for relevant entry-level positions in NGOs, research institutions, or media houses.
Tools & Resources
University websites, Career counselors, Online job portals, Alumni testimonials
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition to higher education or a professional career, leveraging the BA degree as a foundation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ101 | Introduction to Political Science | Major Core Course | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Rights, Duties, Law and Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity, Political Ideologies (Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism) |
| AECC1 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course-1 (e.g., Indian Language / English) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language Proficiency, Communication Skills, Reading Comprehension, Basic Grammar and Vocabulary |
| VAC1 | Value Added Course-1 (e.g., Health & Wellness / Yoga / Sports) | Value Added Course | 1 | Physical Fitness and Nutrition, Mental Well-being and Stress Management, Introduction to Yoga Practices, Importance of Sports and Physical Education |
| OEC1 | Open Elective Course-1 (Interdisciplinary choice) | Open Elective Course | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other disciplines |
| MINOR1 | Minor Course-1 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ102 | Indian Constitution and Government | Major Core Course | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, Federalism and Local Self-Government |
| AECC2 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course-2 (e.g., Indian Language / English) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Advanced Language Skills, Formal and Informal Communication, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
| VAC2 | Value Added Course-2 (e.g., Digital Fluency / Environmental Studies) | Value Added Course | 1 | Digital Literacy and Cyber Hygiene, Basic Computer Applications, Environmental Concepts and Ecosystems, Environmental Issues and Conservation |
| OEC2 | Open Elective Course-2 (Interdisciplinary choice) | Open Elective Course | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other disciplines |
| MINOR2 | Minor Course-2 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ203 | Political Theory | Major Core Course | 4 | Approaches to Political Theory, State and its Evolution, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Concepts of Liberty, Equality, and Justice, Democracy and Citizenship |
| PSCMD201A / PSCMD201B | Indian Political Thought-I / Western Political Thought-I (Elective) | Major Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazl), Modern Indian Thinkers (Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Gandhi), Classical Western Thinkers (Plato, Aristotle), Early Modern Western Thinkers (Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau) |
| SEC1 | Skill Enhancement Course-1 (e.g., Skills for Political Analysis / Public Speaking) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Research and Data Interpretation Skills, Argumentation and Critical Reasoning, Effective Public Speaking Techniques, Presentation and Communication Strategies |
| VAC3 | Value Added Course-3 (e.g., Constitutional Values / Universal Human Values) | Value Added Course | 1 | Preamble and Constitutional Principles, Fundamental Duties of Citizens, Ethics and Moral Values, Human Dignity and Co-existence |
| MINOR3 | Minor Course-3 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ204 | Public Administration | Major Core Course | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Role, Personnel and Financial Administration, Concept of Good Governance and E-Governance |
| PSCMD202A / PSCMD202B | Indian Political Thought-II / Western Political Thought-II (Elective) | Major Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Indian Thinkers (Nehru, Ambedkar, M.N. Roy), J.P. Narayan and Deendayal Upadhyaya, Western Utilitarians (Bentham, J.S. Mill), Idealists and Marxists (Hegel, Karl Marx), Contemporary Western Thinkers (Hannah Arendt) |
| SEC2 | Skill Enhancement Course-2 (e.g., Legal Literacy / Conflict Resolution) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basic Legal Concepts and Rights, Understanding the Justice System, Causes and Dynamics of Conflicts, Negotiation, Mediation, and Peacebuilding Strategies |
| VAC4 | Value Added Course-4 (e.g., Art of Communication / Financial Literacy) | Value Added Course | 1 | Effective Communication Strategies, Interpersonal Skills and Body Language, Personal Finance Management, Investment Basics and Budgeting |
| MINOR4 | Minor Course-4 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ305 | International Relations | Major Core Course | 4 | Approaches to International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Concepts of Power, Security, War and Peace, International Organizations (UN, SAARC, ASEAN), India''''s Foreign Policy Principles, Globalization and Global Issues |
| PSCMJ306 | Comparative Politics | Major Core Course | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Systems, Structural-Functional), Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Constitutions |
| PSCMD303A / PSCMD303B | Research Methodology in Political Science / Human Rights (Elective) | Major Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Social Science Research Design, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation, Concept and Evolution of Human Rights (UDHR, Covenants), Human Rights in India and NHRC |
| OEC3 | Open Elective Course-3 (Interdisciplinary choice) | Open Elective Course | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other disciplines |
| SEC3 | Skill Enhancement Course-3 (e.g., Media and Politics / Gender and Politics) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Role of Media in Politics, Political Communication and Propaganda, Gender Roles and Patriarchy, Women''''s Political Participation and Movements |
| MINOR5 | Minor Course-5 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSCMJ307 | Theories of International Relations | Major Core Course | 4 | Classical and Neo-Realism, Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism, Constructivism and Critical Theory, Feminist and Post-Structuralist Approaches, Globalization and International Political Economy |
| PSCMJ308 | Indian Administration | Major Core Course | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Union and State Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, District Administration and Local Bodies, Police Administration and Administrative Reforms |
| PSCMD304A / PSCMD304B | Foreign Policy of Major Powers / Contemporary Political Issues (Elective) | Major Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Foreign Policy of USA, China, Russia, Foreign Policy of European Union and Japan, Globalization and its Political Impact, Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Identity Politics, Terrorism and Regionalism |
| OEC4 | Open Elective Course-4 (Interdisciplinary choice) | Open Elective Course | 3 | Varies by chosen elective from other disciplines |
| SEC4 | Skill Enhancement Course-4 (e.g., Electoral Politics / Public Opinion and Survey) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Electoral System in India, Voting Behavior and Political Participation, Public Opinion and Survey Research Methods, Data Collection and Analysis in Surveys |
| PSCIN301 | Internship / Project | Project/Internship | 3 | Practical Application of Political Concepts, Fieldwork and Data Collection, Research Project Design and Execution, Report Writing and Presentation |
| MINOR6 | Minor Course-6 (Varies by chosen minor discipline) | Minor Course | 3 | Varies by chosen minor discipline |
