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M-A in International Relations at Pandit Deendayal Energy University
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is International Relations at Pandit Deendayal Energy University Gandhinagar?
This M.A. in International Relations program at Pandit Deendayal Energy University focuses on equipping students with an in-depth understanding of global political, economic, and strategic dynamics. It emphasizes India''''s evolving role in international affairs, energy geopolitics, and regional complexities, preparing graduates for analytical and policy-oriented careers in a rapidly changing world. The program integrates theoretical knowledge with practical applications relevant to the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a bachelor''''s degree in any discipline seeking to delve into foreign policy, diplomacy, and global studies. It also caters to working professionals in government, NGOs, or think tanks aiming to enhance their expertise in international relations. Candidates with a keen interest in current affairs, global challenges, and a desire to contribute to policy-making are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in foreign service, intelligence agencies, think tanks, international organizations, corporate affairs, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 15+ LPA for experienced professionals. The curriculum aligns with skills required for diplomatic services and international development roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core IR Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational theories of International Relations and Political Economy from the outset. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts, map out theoretical frameworks, and understand their historical evolution. This builds a robust analytical base.
Tools & Resources
John Baylis & Steve Smith''''s ''''The Globalization of World Politics'''', Stephen M. Walt''''s articles, JSTOR for academic papers, peer discussions
Career Connection
Strong theoretical understanding is crucial for policy analysis, research roles, and competitive exams requiring in-depth knowledge of global affairs.
Develop Strong Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on the ''''Research Methodology and Data Analysis'''' course. Practice academic writing consistently by drafting essays, policy briefs, and research proposals on contemporary IR issues. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine your analytical articulation.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for citations, Purdue OWL, academic style guides (APA/Chicago), Grammarly, writing workshops
Career Connection
Essential for any role in research, policy formulation, journalism, or diplomacy, where clear and concise communication is paramount.
Engage with Current Global Affairs Actively- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, cultivate a daily habit of following international news, geopolitical analyses, and expert opinions from diverse sources. Participate in department seminars, debates, and Model UN simulations to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, The Economist, Foreign Affairs, Council on Foreign Relations, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace
Career Connection
Keeps you informed and enables critical thinking, vital for interviews in foreign policy, intelligence, and international organizations.
Intermediate Stage
Secure and Excel in a Relevant Internship- (Semester 3)
Actively seek internships with think tanks, government bodies (e.g., MEA divisions if possible), NGOs, or energy sector firms focusing on international relations/geopolitics. Treat the internship as a real job, take initiative, and network extensively within the organization.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, career services at PDEU, specific organization websites (ORF, IDSA, TERI), alumni network for leads
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, builds professional networks, and often leads to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations.
Specialize Through Electives and Project Work- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose departmental electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Critical Security Studies for defense roles, India and West Asia for regional expertise). Use dissertation/field project opportunities to delve deeply into a chosen niche, becoming an expert in that area.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, specialized journals, research databases (ProQuest, EBSCOHost), statistical software for quantitative analysis if applicable
Career Connection
Helps build a specialized portfolio, making you a more attractive candidate for specific roles and demonstrating expertise in a particular domain of IR.
Network with Practitioners and Alumni- (Semester 3)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and conferences featuring diplomats, foreign policy experts, and alumni working in IR. Actively engage in Q&A sessions and follow up with LinkedIn connections. Informational interviews can provide insights and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
PDEU alumni network, LinkedIn, conference websites (e.g., Raisina Dialogue if accessible), professional associations in IR
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and builds a professional reputation within the IR community.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation/Thesis Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your dissertation, ensuring it is a high-quality, original piece of research. This demonstrates your ability for independent academic work, critical analysis, and scholarly contribution. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, research ethics guidelines, data analysis tools (NVivo for qualitative, SPSS/R for quantitative), expert reviews
Career Connection
A strong dissertation can be a talking point in interviews, showcase your expertise, and serve as a portfolio piece for research-oriented careers or higher studies.
Strategize for Placement & Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Start preparing for placement interviews or competitive exams (UPSC Civil Services, NET, etc.) early in your final semester. Tailor your resume and cover letters for specific roles. Practice group discussions and mock interviews, focusing on current affairs and IR concepts.
Tools & Resources
PDEU Career Services, UPSC previous year papers, interview preparation guides, current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Direct preparation for securing desired employment or clearing challenging national-level examinations post-graduation.
Cultivate Professional Communication and Presentation- (Semester 4 and ongoing)
Refine your oral presentation skills by participating in seminars and conferences where you can present your research findings. Learn to succinctly communicate complex IR issues to diverse audiences, both academic and non-academic.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking clubs, Toastmasters, TED Talks for inspiration, presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote), feedback from peers and faculty
Career Connection
Highly valued in diplomatic roles, public speaking, academic positions, and corporate communications where conveying complex information effectively is key.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree (or equivalent) in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent CPI/CGPA from any recognized University / Institution. Candidates appearing for their final year examination are also eligible to apply. NRI and Foreign students are also eligible to apply.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 84 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR101 | Theories of International Relations | Core | 4 | Realism and Neo-Realism, Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxist and Critical Theories, Feminist and Post-Colonial Approaches, Green Theory |
| IR102 | International Political Economy | Core | 4 | Introduction to IPE, Liberal IPE, Mercantilist IPE, Marxist IPE, Globalization and Global Governance, Contemporary IPE Issues |
| IR103 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, State Responsibility and Jurisdiction, Law of Treaties, International Human Rights Law, United Nations System, International Economic and Security Organizations |
| IR104 | Research Methodology and Data Analysis | Core | 4 | Approaches to Social Science Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Quantitative Data Analysis (Descriptive Statistics), Qualitative Data Analysis, Research Ethics |
| IR105 | Contemporary Security Challenges | Core | 4 | Traditional Security Concepts, Non-Traditional Security Threats, Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism, Nuclear Proliferation, Cyber Security, Human Security |
| IR106 | History of International Relations | Core | 4 | Westphalian System, Concert of Europe, World Wars and Inter-War Period, Cold War, Post-Cold War Era, Rise of New Powers |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR201 | India’s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Historical Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy, Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, India and Major Powers, India and its Neighbours, India in Multilateral Forums, Economic Diplomacy |
| IR202 | Public Diplomacy and Strategic Communication | Core | 4 | Concepts of Public Diplomacy, Tools and Tactics of Public Diplomacy, Nation Branding, Digital Diplomacy, Crisis Communication, Case Studies in Public Diplomacy |
| IR203 | Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding | Core | 4 | Nature of Conflict, Approaches to Conflict Resolution, Peacekeeping, Peacemaking, Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Gender and Peacebuilding |
| IR204 | Global Environmental Politics | Core | 4 | Environmental Governance, Climate Change Politics, Water Politics, Energy Security and Environment, Sustainable Development Goals, Role of International Actors |
| OE205 | Open Elective 1 | Elective | 4 | |
| IR206 | Professional Communication for International Relations | Core | 4 | Academic Writing, Presentation Skills, Negotiation Skills, Cross-Cultural Communication, Report Writing, Policy Briefs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR301 | Geo-Politics of Energy | Core | 4 | Energy Resources and Distribution, Oil and Gas Politics, Renewable Energy Geopolitics, Energy Security Strategies, Energy Transitions, India’s Energy Diplomacy |
| IR302 | South Asia in World Affairs | Core | 4 | Regional Cooperation in South Asia, India-Pakistan Relations, Afghanistan Conflict, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka Politics, SAARC and BIMSTEC, China''''s Role in South Asia |
| IR303 | International Relations of East Asia | Core | 4 | Rise of China, US-China Rivalry, Korean Peninsula Dynamics, Japan''''s Role in Asia, ASEAN and Regionalism, Maritime Disputes in East Asia |
| DE304A | Critical Security Studies | Departmental Elective | 4 | Evolution of Security Studies, Copenhagen School, Paris School, Welsh School, Post-Structuralism and Security, Securitization Theory |
| DE304B | India and West Asia | Departmental Elective | 4 | Historical Ties, Energy and Economic Relations, Strategic Partnerships, Indian Diaspora in West Asia, Conflict Dynamics, India’s Policy |
| DE304C | Global Governance | Departmental Elective | 4 | Concept of Global Governance, Role of States and Non-State Actors, Global Commons, Multilateralism, Challenges to Global Governance, UN Reforms |
| DE304D | Africa in Global Politics | Departmental Elective | 4 | Colonial Legacy, Resource Politics, African Union, Conflict and Development, China-Africa Relations, India-Africa Relations |
| IR305 | Internship / Dissertation | Core | 8 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR401 | Dissertation / Field Project | Core | 8 | |
| OE402 | Open Elective 2 | Elective | 4 |
