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B-A in Political Science at Om Mahavidyalaya
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Om Mahavidyalaya Prayagraj?
This Political Science program at Om Mahavidyalaya, Prayagraj, focuses on understanding political systems, theories, and processes, particularly in the Indian context. It delves into constitutional development, international relations, and public administration, providing a comprehensive foundation for critically analyzing governance. The program''''s design aligns with the New Education Policy, emphasizing holistic learning and interdisciplinary perspectives relevant to India''''s evolving socio-political landscape and its demand for informed citizens.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, journalism, law, or public policy roles. It also suits individuals passionate about social issues and governance, aiming for careers in NGOs, research, or academia. Students with strong analytical skills and an interest in societal dynamics and public affairs will find this specialization particularly rewarding, preparing them for impactful contributions and fostering leadership capabilities in the Indian public sphere.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, political analysis, policy research, and public relations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in government or corporate sectors focused on public affairs. The comprehensive curriculum builds a strong foundation for higher studies in law or international relations, fostering critical thinking essential for leadership roles and social advocacy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Constitutional Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand the Indian Constitution, its principles, and historical development. Utilize resources like ''''Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth'''' and official government websites to build a strong base. Engage in discussions with faculty to clarify complex concepts and interpret constitutional provisions.
Tools & Resources
M. Laxmikanth - Indian Polity, Constitution of India website (india.gov.in), Parliament of India website
Career Connection
A strong constitutional foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC, state PSCs, and for understanding policy-making roles in public service.
Cultivate Analytical Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of reading newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), current affairs magazines, and academic journals daily. Focus on analyzing political news, government policies, and international developments critically, rather than just passively consuming information.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express e-papers, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Frontline magazine
Career Connection
Sharp analytical skills and current affairs knowledge are indispensable for civil services, journalism, policy analysis, and any research-oriented role.
Engage in Peer Learning and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss core political science concepts and contemporary issues. Organize informal debates and mock parliamentary sessions to enhance articulation, critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills. Actively participate in college-level forums.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Online forums for political discussion
Career Connection
These activities build confidence, public speaking skills, and the ability to articulate complex ideas, vital for leadership and public engagement roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Identify a contemporary political issue of interest and conduct a mini-research project. This involves formulating a research question, collecting basic data (through surveys/interviews or secondary sources), analyzing findings, and presenting a concise report. Seek guidance from faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, JSTOR (if university access provided), SurveyMonkey (for small surveys)
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience is invaluable for academic pursuits, think tanks, NGOs, and for developing analytical skills required in policy roles.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Local Bodies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships with local non-governmental organizations (NGOs), political consultants, or even local self-government bodies. This provides practical exposure to governance, advocacy, and social work on the ground in India, particularly in regional settings.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites in Prayagraj, Local government offices
Career Connection
Internships offer real-world experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of career paths in public service and social development.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in inter-college essay competitions, paper presentations, and seminars on political science topics. This helps in refining academic writing, public speaking, and staying updated on current research trends and debates within the discipline.
Tools & Resources
University/College notices for events, Academic journals
Career Connection
Participation enhances academic profile, builds presentation skills, and provides a platform to network with peers and experts in the field.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services/Higher Education- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for specific career goals like UPSC, state PSCs, or entrance exams for MA/PhD programs in Political Science. Join relevant coaching, solve previous year''''s papers, and focus on developing strong answer writing skills tailored to these exams.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC official websites, Coaching institutes, Online test series
Career Connection
Focused preparation directly impacts success in competitive exams, opening doors to prestigious government positions or advanced academic research.
Develop a Capstone Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Undertake a more extensive research project or a dissertation on a specialized area of Political Science under faculty supervision. This demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical analysis, and original contribution to the field, preparing for advanced studies or research roles.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for basic analysis), University Library
Career Connection
A strong capstone project is a significant asset for postgraduate admissions, research-oriented jobs, and showcasing expertise to potential employers.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 6)
Actively connect with college alumni who are working in relevant fields through alumni networks, LinkedIn, or college events. Seek guidance, mentorship, and insights into career opportunities and industry trends in India. Attend career fairs if available.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College Alumni Association, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Networking often leads to job opportunities, mentorship, and a deeper understanding of career trajectories, significantly enhancing placement prospects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) from a recognized board or equivalent
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Major Core | 4 | Indian Nationalism and Freedom Struggle, Constituent Assembly and Constitution Making, Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Federal System in India, Centre-State Relations |
| POL 102 | Political Theory | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Significance of Political Theory, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Law, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Power, Democracy and Political Obligation |
| COC 101 | Food, Nutrition and Hygiene | Co-curricular | 2 | Concept of Food and Nutrition, Balanced Diet and Malnutrition, Food Adulteration and Safety, Personal and Community Hygiene, Common Nutritional Deficiencies |
| VOC 101 | Introduction to Computer Applications | Vocational | 2 | Fundamentals of Computers, Operating Systems and Software, MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and Web Browsing, Cyber Security Basics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 201 | Indian Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Salient Features of Indian Constitution, President, Vice-President and Prime Minister, Parliament and State Legislature, Supreme Court and High Courts, Election Commission and Electoral Process |
| POL 202 | Public Administration | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Principles of Management, Bureaucracy and its Role, Personnel Administration and Financial Administration, Public Policy and Good Governance |
| COC 201 | First Aid and Health | Co-curricular | 2 | Basic Principles of First Aid, Managing Wounds and Bleeding, Fractures and Sprains, Burns, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Common Health Issues and Prevention |
| VOC 201 | Digital Marketing | Vocational | 2 | Introduction to Digital Marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing and Email Marketing, Web Analytics and Advertising |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 301 | Comparative Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitution of UK: Monarchy, Parliament, Cabinet, Constitution of USA: Presidency, Congress, Judiciary, Political System of China: Communist Party Rule |
| POL 302 | International Relations | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations: Organs and Role, Disarmament, Human Rights, International Terrorism |
| COC 301 | Human Values & Environmental Studies | Co-curricular | 2 | Understanding Human Values and Ethics, Moral Development and Dilemmas, Concept of Environment and Ecosystems, Environmental Pollution and Conservation, Sustainable Development Goals |
| VOC 301 | Retail Management | Vocational | 2 | Introduction to Retail Management, Types of Retail Formats and Models, Retail Store Operations and Layout, Merchandising, Pricing and Promotion, Customer Service in Retail |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 401 | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Human Nature, Realism, Locke: Natural Rights, Social Contract, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Civil Society |
| POL 402 | Research Methodology | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques, Hypothesis Formulation, Data Analysis, Report Writing and Ethics |
| COC 401 | Physical Education & Yoga | Co-curricular | 2 | Importance of Physical Education, Components of Physical Fitness, Introduction to Yoga and Asanas, Breathing Techniques (Pranayama) and Meditation, Benefits of Yoga for Mental and Physical Health |
| VOC 401 | Tourism and Hospitality Management | Vocational | 2 | Introduction to Tourism Industry, Types of Tourism and Travel, Hospitality Sector Overview (Hotels, Restaurants), Travel Agency Operations and Tour Guiding, Destination Management and Sustainable Tourism |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 501 | Political Process in India (Major Elective - Option A) | Major Elective | 4 | Party System in India, National and Regional Parties, Pressure Groups and Interest Articulation, Electoral Reforms and Voting Behaviour, Caste, Religion, Language in Indian Politics, Regionalism, Communalism and Naxalism |
| POL 502 | Human Rights (Major Elective - Option B) | Major Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission and Role of NGOs, Challenges to Human Rights in India |
| Minor Elective (Flexible) | Elective from another Discipline | Minor Elective | Variable | Students choose a minor subject from other disciplines, Common options include History, Economics, Sociology, Hindi, English Literature |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 601 | Local Self Government in India (Major Elective - Option A) | Major Elective | 4 | Evolution of Local Self Government in India, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functions, Finances, Urban Local Bodies: Municipalities, Corporations, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| POL 602 | Gandhian Political Thought (Major Elective - Option B) | Major Elective | 4 | Gandhi''''s Concept of Satyagraha and Ahimsa, Swaraj: Self-Rule and Sarvodaya, Trusteeship and Economic Equality, Critique of Modern Civilization and State, Relevance of Gandhian Thought Today |
| Minor Elective (Flexible) | Elective from another Discipline | Minor Elective | Variable | Continuation of Minor subject from Semester 5 or new choice, Options often include History, Economics, Sociology, Hindi, English Literature |
