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M-A-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in General at Mizoram University
Aizawl, Mizoram
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About the Specialization
What is General at Mizoram University Aizawl?
This M.A. Political Science program at Mizoram University offers a comprehensive study of political systems, international relations, public administration, and Indian politics. It provides a deep analytical framework to understand governance, public policy, and global affairs, highly relevant to India''''s dynamic political landscape. The curriculum aims to foster critical thinking and research skills essential for various careers in public service and academia.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Political Science, History, or Public Administration seeking entry into research or public service. It also suits civil service aspirants aiming for a strong foundation, working professionals looking to upskill in policy analysis, and career changers transitioning into roles in advocacy, journalism, or international organizations.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop a profound understanding of political dynamics, sharp analytical capabilities, and robust research skills. Career paths include roles in central and state bureaucracies, think tanks, journalism, advocacy, and international organizations. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in government and policy research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Theoretical Frameworks- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically engage with foundational political theories (Western, Indian, IR) using primary texts and recommended academic journals. Focus on understanding the nuances and historical context of each theory. This builds a strong analytical base for advanced studies and informed policy analysis.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Recommended Textbooks
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical rigor essential for success in competitive exams (UPSC, MPSC) and policy research roles.
Cultivate Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in research methodology courses, practice literature reviews, and conduct small-scale data interpretation exercises. Focus on academic writing, proper citation, and structuring arguments. This prepares students for their dissertation and future research endeavors.
Tools & Resources
Mizoram University Library, Online Academic Databases (e.g., Google Scholar), Mendeley/Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
Crucial for pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D., working in think tanks, research organizations, or policy analysis roles.
Engage in Current Affairs and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international political developments. Participate in departmental seminars, debates, and discussion forums to articulate views and critically evaluate contemporary issues. This enhances general awareness and public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
Leading National Newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Reputable News Channels (DD News, Rajya Sabha TV), Departmental Study Circles
Career Connection
Improves interview performance for civil services and media roles, fostering an informed perspective on governance.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Policy Analysis Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world policy issues, especially concerning Mizoram or the Northeast. Collaborate with faculty or local NGOs on small policy briefs or impact assessments. This provides practical experience in policy formulation and evaluation.
Tools & Resources
Government Reports, NGO Publications, Mizoram University Research Centres
Career Connection
Builds a portfolio for roles in public policy, governance, and advocacy, particularly useful for state government or regional organizations.
Seek Internships and Fieldwork- (Semester 3-4)
Actively pursue internships with state government departments, political campaigns, research organizations, or NGOs in Mizoram or other parts of India. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and exposure to the practical workings of politics and administration.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Internshala, Direct applications to government departments/NGOs
Career Connection
Develops professional networks, enhances practical skills, and improves employability in public service, development sector, and political consulting.
Strategic Elective Specialization- (Semester 3-4)
Thoughtfully choose elective courses (e.g., Government and Politics of North East India, Human Rights) that align with specific career aspirations or research interests. Deepen expertise in a chosen sub-field to gain a competitive advantage in specialized roles or for higher studies.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Advisors, Alumni Mentors, Career Counseling Services
Career Connection
Creates a distinct profile for niche roles in regional studies, human rights advocacy, or specific policy areas, making graduates highly desirable in those sectors.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services/NET Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate focused time to prepare for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, Mizoram Public Service Commission, or NET/JRF. Utilize online coaching platforms, join study groups, and regularly solve previous year''''s question papers. This is a direct pathway to prestigious government positions or academia.
Tools & Resources
Unacademy, Byju''''s IAS, UPSC/NET official websites for syllabus and past papers, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after careers in central/state government administration, or academic/research positions.
Leverage Dissertation for Expertise- (Semester 4)
If opted, undertake a rigorous dissertation on a topic of deep interest, developing original research questions, executing a robust methodology, and presenting findings coherently. This showcases independent research capability and specialized expertise.
Tools & Resources
Academic Supervisors, Mizoram University Library, Statistical Software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Essential for those aspiring to Ph.D. programs, research roles, or positions requiring in-depth analytical and problem-solving skills.
Network and Attend Career Fairs- (Semester 4)
Actively attend university career fairs, workshops by alumni, and connect with professionals in public service, NGOs, and academia. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network. Seek guidance on career planning and placement opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Alumni Association events
Career Connection
Facilitates job searches, provides industry insights, and opens doors to mentorship and potential employment opportunities in relevant sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PST 401 | Western Political Thought | Core | 6 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Classification of Governments, Machiavelli''''s Statecraft, Social Contract Theories (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Hegelian Idealism and Marxism, Hannah Arendt''''s Political Philosophy |
| PST 403 | Theories of International Relations | Core | 6 | Realist Tradition in IR, Liberal Approaches to IR, Marxist Theories of IR, Constructivism in International Relations, Feminist Perspective in IR, Foreign Policy Analysis |
| PST 405 | Comparative Politics | Core | 6 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems and their typologies, Political Culture and Socialization, Federalism vs. Unitary Systems, Electoral Systems, Political Economy |
| PST 407 | Public Administration | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Classical Approaches (Scientific Management, Bureaucracy), Human Relations Approach, Rational Decision Making, Bureaucracy and Governance, Public Policy Process |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PST 402 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 6 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya), Medieval Thinkers (Barani, Abul Fazl), Modern Indian Renaissance (Rammohun Roy), Gandhian Philosophy, Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, Savarkar''''s Hindutva |
| PST 404 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 6 | Constitutional Development of India, Federalism in India, Union Executive and Parliament, Judiciary and Judicial Review, Electoral Politics, Political Parties and Pressure Groups |
| PST 406 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 6 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India and its Neighbors, India and Great Powers, India''''s Nuclear Policy, India in International Organizations |
| PST 408 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Foundations of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PST 501 | Theory of International Law | Core | 6 | Nature and Sources of International Law, Recognition and State Jurisdiction, Law of Treaties, Use of Force in International Relations, International Criminal Justice, International Humanitarian Law |
| PST 503 | State Politics in India | Core | 6 | Comparative Analysis of Indian States, Role of Regional Parties, Centre-State Relations, Local Self-Government, Socio-Economic Development in States, Identity Politics |
| PST 505 | Global Politics and Contemporary Issues | Core | 6 | Globalization and its Impact, Human Rights in Global Context, Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism, Cyber Security and Global Governance, Contemporary Challenges to World Order |
| PST 507 | Government and Politics of North East India | Elective | 6 | Historical Context of North East India, Ethnic Movements and Autonomy Demands, Insurgency and Peace Processes, Border Politics and Interstate Relations, India''''s Look East Policy, State Politics in Mizoram |
| PST 509 | Human Rights | Elective | 6 | Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Institutions, Challenges to Human Rights |
| PST 511 | Democratic Theory | Elective | 6 | Classical and Liberal Democracy, Participatory Democracy, Deliberative Democracy, Direct vs. Representative Democracy, Challenges to Modern Democracies, Democratic Innovations |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PST 502 | India''''s National Security | Core | 6 | Dimensions of National Security, Military Doctrines and Capabilities, Internal Security Challenges, Terrorism and Naxalism, Cyber Warfare and Information Security, Border Management and Geopolitics |
| PST 504 | Electoral Politics in India | Core | 6 | Electoral System in India, Voting Behavior and Political Participation, Role of Money and Media in Elections, Electoral Reforms and their Impact, Election Commission of India, Challenges to Free and Fair Elections |
| PST 506 | Regional Organizations | Core | 6 | Theories of Regionalism, European Union (EU), ASEAN, SAARC, Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS, African Union (AU) |
| PST 508 | Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution | Elective | 6 | Nature and Tools of Diplomacy, Negotiation Strategies, Mediation and Arbitration, Peacekeeping Operations, Preventive Diplomacy, Case Studies in Conflict Resolution |
| PST 510 | Gender and Politics | Elective | 6 | Feminist Theories and Perspectives, Gender in Political Analysis, Women in Political Participation, Gender and Development, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender-based Violence and Policy |
| PST 512 | Political Sociology | Elective | 6 | Political Socialization, Political Culture and Legitimacy, Elites and Leadership, Mass Media and Public Opinion, Social Movements, Political Change and Revolution |
| PST 514 | Dissertation | Project | 24 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Academic Ethics and Plagiarism |
