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MA in Political Science at P.K. Roy Memorial College, Dhanbad
Dhanbad, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at P.K. Roy Memorial College, Dhanbad Dhanbad?
This MA Political Science program at Prasana Kumar Roy Memorial College, Dhanbad, affiliated with BBMKU, focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and practices. It delves into Indian politics, international relations, public administration, and governance. The program is designed to equip students with analytical skills crucial for understanding contemporary political dynamics and public affairs in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science or a related discipline who aspire to build a career in public service, policy analysis, teaching, or research. It also suits working professionals, such as those in NGOs or civil society organizations, seeking to deepen their understanding of political processes and enhance their analytical capabilities for career advancement in the social sector or administration.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political consultancy, journalism, research think tanks, and academic institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters critical thinking and policy analysis skills highly valued in both government and non-governmental sectors, supporting growth trajectories in public policy and advocacy roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on understanding core political theories, comparative politics, and Indian government. Regularly read foundational texts and engage in discussions to internalize complex concepts, as these form the bedrock for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
Recommended readings from syllabus, Standard Indian political science textbooks, Study groups, College/university seminars
Career Connection
A robust theoretical foundation is essential for analytical roles in civil services, policy research, and academia, enabling effective policy analysis and informed decision-making.
Enhance Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic writing through essay assignments and prepare for research methodology early on. Focus on structuring arguments, proper citation, and critical analysis of political phenomena, which are vital for thesis work and competitive exams.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (e.g., JSTOR), University library resources, Online writing guides, Faculty feedback
Career Connection
Strong writing and research skills are crucial for roles in policy drafting, think tanks, journalism, and research-oriented government positions.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of regularly following national and international news, especially focusing on political developments, governance issues, and international relations. This contextual understanding enriches theoretical knowledge and prepares for competitive exams.
Tools & Resources
National newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Magazines (Frontline, Yojana), Reputable news portals, College debates
Career Connection
Essential for success in civil services exams, journalism, and any role requiring an informed perspective on public policy and current events.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Policy Analysis and Case Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world policy issues in India. Participate in group projects analyzing government policies, their implementation, and impact. Focus on critical evaluation and suggesting improvements.
Tools & Resources
Government reports, Policy documents, NITI Aayog publications, Workshops on public policy
Career Connection
Develops practical skills for policy research, advocacy, and roles in government think tanks or international organizations working on Indian development.
Explore Specialization Electives and Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Thoughtfully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with career interests, such as Gender and Politics or Diplomacy. If offered, opt for project work to conduct in-depth research on a chosen political topic, gaining specialized knowledge and practical research experience.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors for DSE selection, University resources for project guidance, Internship opportunities related to specialization
Career Connection
Allows for specialization, making graduates more attractive for targeted roles in specific areas of political science, such as international relations or social justice advocacy.
Network with Professionals and Academics- (Semester 3-4)
Attend conferences, seminars, and guest lectures to interact with political scientists, policymakers, and civil servants. Building a professional network can open doors for mentorship, internships, and future career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Alumni networks, LinkedIn, University events
Career Connection
Provides insights into various career paths, potential internship leads, and crucial contacts for job referrals, particularly valuable in the Indian context for competitive fields like civil services.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 3-4 (parallel with academic studies))
For those aiming for civil services, integrate dedicated preparation for UPSC or State PSC exams. This includes extensive revision of political science optional papers, general studies, and current affairs, alongside mock tests and answer writing practice.
Tools & Resources
Reputed coaching institutes (if feasible), Online platforms for test series, Previous year''''s question papers
Career Connection
Directly aims at securing prestigious positions in Indian bureaucracy, public administration, and foreign service.
Develop Professional Portfolio and Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Compile academic papers, project reports, and any research work into a professional portfolio. Additionally, focus on soft skills like public speaking, presentation, and teamwork through participation in college events or external workshops.
Tools & Resources
Career services for resume building, Mock interviews, Student associations or college clubs for public speaking
Career Connection
Enhances employability for roles in NGOs, media, policy research, and academia, providing tangible evidence of capabilities and communication prowess.
Career Planning and Placement Focus- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the college''''s placement cell (if available) or explore job portals and university networks. Refine interview skills, prepare for aptitude tests, and target organizations in areas like social development, governance, and public affairs.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling, Online job platforms (e.g., Naukri.com, LinkedIn), Alumni mentorship
Career Connection
Crucial for securing entry-level positions immediately after graduation in desired sectors, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to professional life.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in the relevant subject (Political Science) with Honours or minimum 45% marks in General Course from a recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Significance of Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Power, Major Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism, Theories of State and Sovereignty |
| C-102 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Methods of Comparative Politics, Approaches: Traditional, Structural-Functional, System Analysis, Political Culture and Socialization, Political Development and Revolution, Constitutionalism and Bureaucracy |
| C-103 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Colonialism and Indian Nationalism, Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Union Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, State Politics and Electoral Process, Challenges to Indian Democracy |
| C-104 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Evolution and Approaches to Public Administration, Theories and Principles of Organization, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration |
| GE-105 | Human Rights | Generic Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Jeremy Bentham and J.S. Mill, Hegel and Karl Marx, Gramsci and Hannah Arendt |
| C-202 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Constructivism, Cold War and Non-Alignment Movement, International Organizations: UN, SAARC, ASEAN, Disarmament and Arms Control |
| C-203 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Elites, Masses, and Political Participation, Pressure Groups and Political Parties, State and Civil Society |
| C-204 | Political Economy | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Economy, Classical and Marxian Political Economy, Keynesian Economics and Globalization, New International Economic Order, Development and Underdevelopment |
| GE-205 | Decentralized Governance in India | Generic Elective | 4 | Concept of Decentralization, Panchayati Raj Institutions: 73rd and 74th Amendments, Rural Local Self Government, Urban Local Self Government, Role of NGOs in Local Governance |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-301 | Research Methodology in Social Sciences | Core | 4 | Meaning and Types of Research, Research Problem, Hypothesis, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection: Survey, Observation, Interview, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
| C-302 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Kautilya, Manu, Modern Indian Political Thought: Ram Mohan Roy, Dayanand, Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru, Tagore, M.N. Roy, Savarkar, Swaraj, Nationalism, Sarvodaya |
| C-303 | International Law and Organization | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Law, Sources of International Law, State Recognition, Treaties, International Court of Justice, United Nations System: Security Council, General Assembly, International Regimes and Global Governance |
| DSE-304 | Diplomacy and Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Diplomacy: Meaning, Types, Functions, Foreign Policy: Determinants, Instruments, India''''s Foreign Policy: Evolution, Objectives, Challenges, Non-Alignment Movement and its relevance, Contemporary Diplomatic Practices |
| DSE-305 | Human Rights and Social Justice | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Social Justice: Meaning, Dimensions, Theories, Affirmative Action and Reservations in India, Human Rights of Vulnerable Groups: Women, Children, Dalits, Role of State and Civil Society in Social Justice, Contemporary Issues in Human Rights and Justice |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C-401 | Democracy and Governance in India | Core | 4 | Concept and Theories of Democracy, Challenges to Indian Democracy: Regionalism, Communalism, Good Governance: Concept, Principles, E-Governance, Right to Information, Transparency and Accountability in Governance |
| C-402 | Public Policy and Development Administration | Core | 4 | Public Policy: Meaning, Types, Formulation, Policy Implementation and Evaluation, Development: Meaning, Theories, Strategies, Development Administration: Concept, Role, NGOs and Public-Private Partnerships in Development |
| C-403 | Security Studies | Core | 4 | Concept of Security: National and International, Traditional and Non-Traditional Security Threats, Terrorism, Environmental Degradation, Human Migration, Nuclear Proliferation and Arms Race, Peace and Conflict Studies |
| DSE-404 | Gender and Politics | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Gender: Concept, Theories, Patriarchy, Feminism: Waves, Debates, Liberal, Radical, Marxist, Gender and Political Participation, Women''''s Empowerment and Challenges in India, Gender Budgeting and Policies |
| DSE-405 | Political Geography | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Geopolitics: Theories and Concepts, State as a Geographical Unit, Boundaries and Frontiers, Territorial Disputes, Electoral Geography and Spatial Politics, Resource Politics and Environmental Governance |
