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MA in Political Science at Pujya Bhaurao Devras Mahavidyalaya Muktapur
Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Pujya Bhaurao Devras Mahavidyalaya Muktapur Kanpur Dehat?
This Political Science program at Pujya Bhaurao Devras Mahavidyalaya focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and practices, with a strong emphasis on Indian political dynamics and international relations. It prepares students for diverse roles in governance, public policy, and academia, aligning with the growing need for informed political analysts in India''''s evolving democratic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities, social sciences, or law backgrounds seeking entry into civil services, policy research, or political analysis. It also caters to working professionals in public service, NGOs, or media who wish to deepen their theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of political processes, and individuals aiming for careers in journalism or teaching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths such as civil servants, policy analysts, political consultants, journalists, researchers, and educators in India. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program strengthens analytical and critical thinking skills, crucial for success in the competitive Indian job market and for higher education.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories, concepts, and terminologies taught in the initial semesters. Actively participate in class discussions and utilize the college library for extensive reading beyond textbooks to grasp diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Classic texts of political philosophers, Online academic databases, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is essential for success in competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, and for critical analysis in future policy-making or research roles.
Develop Critical Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in debates and essay writing on contemporary political issues. Practice deconstructing arguments, identifying underlying assumptions, and forming well-reasoned conclusions, drawing parallels with Indian political scenarios.
Tools & Resources
News analysis portals, Opinion pieces from reputable Indian newspapers, Debate clubs, Regular writing assignments
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving and critical thinking, vital for policy analysis, journalism, and research roles where informed opinions are valued.
Master Research Basics and Academic Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to courses on research methodology. Learn how to formulate research questions, conduct literature reviews, and properly cite sources. Practice writing clear, concise, and academically sound papers.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Academic writing guides, Plagiarism checkers (e.g., Turnitin through institutional access), Guidance from professors
Career Connection
Fundamental for any academic or research-oriented career, including pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D. or working as a research assistant.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Policy Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Seek out internships with local NGOs, political consultancies, or government bodies to observe policy formulation and implementation firsthand. Attend public lectures, seminars, and workshops on policy issues relevant to India.
Tools & Resources
Local government offices, Political party youth wings, NGO networks, Public policy think tanks (e.g., NITI Aayog''''s resources)
Career Connection
Provides real-world experience, builds professional networks, and can lead to future job opportunities in public administration or advocacy.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Readings- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen knowledge in chosen areas of interest (e.g., Human Rights, Environment and Politics, Gender and Politics) by diligently studying elective subjects. Explore advanced academic texts and contemporary research in these fields.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, Research papers, Expert lectures, Online certification courses in specific policy domains
Career Connection
Develops expertise in niche areas, making graduates more attractive for specialized roles in advocacy, research, or international organizations.
Participate in Model UN & Debate Competitions- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, parliamentary debates, and other inter-college competitions. These platforms enhance public speaking, negotiation skills, and understanding of international diplomacy and national policy.
Tools & Resources
MUN clubs, Debate societies, Online resources for parliamentary procedure, Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Refines communication and leadership skills, highly valued in civil services, diplomacy, media, and public relations roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Impactful Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4 (Primary focus, with preparation starting in Sem 3))
Choose a research topic of significant contemporary relevance to Indian politics or international relations. Conduct thorough primary and secondary research, meticulously analyze data, and produce a high-quality dissertation that demonstrates original thought and robust methodology.
Tools & Resources
Research mentors, Statistical software (if applicable), Institutional archives, Online survey tools, Peer review
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and subject mastery, crucial for academic careers, think tank positions, or advanced policy roles.
Network Strategically and Prepare for Placements- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend career fairs, alumni talks, and workshops focused on specific career paths (e.g., UPSC coaching, journalism seminars). Build a professional network by connecting with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals. Refine your resume and interview skills.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College placement cell, Alumni network, Mock interview sessions, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Direct pathway to internships and full-time employment, facilitating smoother transition from academia to professional life in India.
Pursue Certifications or Language Proficiency- (Throughout Semesters 3-4)
Consider pursuing additional certifications in areas like data analytics for social sciences, public policy analysis, or a foreign language (e.g., French, German, Mandarin) if aspiring for international roles or specific research areas.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera, edX for online courses, Local language institutes, University language departments
Career Connection
Differentiates candidates in a competitive job market, opens doors to international organizations, diplomatic services, or advanced research positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline (10+2+3 pattern) with a minimum of 45-50% aggregate marks, as per Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) norms.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per University (CSJMU) norms (typically 25%), External: As per University (CSJMU) norms (typically 75%)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101 | Political Theory: Classical and Modern | Core | 4 | Nature of Political Theory, Classical Political Thought (Plato, Aristotle), Modern Political Thought (Machiavelli, Locke, Rousseau), Contemporary Political Thought, Liberalism, Marxism |
| MAPS102 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Union Executive, Parliament, Judiciary, Federalism in India, Party System and Electoral Reforms |
| MAPS103 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy and Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Decentralization and Good Governance |
| MAPS104 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of IR, Theories of IR (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Globalisation and International Organizations (UN), Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Culture and Socialization, State & Society, Political Regimes (Democracy, Authoritarianism), Electoral Systems and Globalization |
| MAPS202 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Bentham, J.S. Mill and Hegel, Karl Marx |
| MAPS203 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
| MAPS204 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India & Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India & Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh), Economic Diplomacy and India''''s Role in UN |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Rammohan Roy, Dayanand Saraswati, Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, Jawaharlal Nehru, Jayaprakash Narayan, Deendayal Upadhyay |
| MAPS302 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Political Sociology, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political Culture and Participation, Elite Theories, Social Movements and Civil Society |
| MAPS303 (A) | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Law |
| MAPS303 (B) | Environment and Politics | Elective | 4 | Environmentalism and Sustainable Development, Environmental Movements in India, Global Environmental Issues, International Environmental Governance, India''''s Environmental Policy |
| MAPS304 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Nature of State Politics, Regionalism and Language Politics, Caste in Politics, Centre-State Relations, Political Economy of Indian States |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 4 | Postmodernism and Feminism, Multiculturalism and Rights, Justice and Democracy, Deliberative Democracy, Global Justice |
| MAPS402 | Development Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Approaches to Development, Development Planning in India, Bureaucracy and Development, People''''s Participation and NGOs, Sustainable Development Goals |
| MAPS403 (A) | Gender and Politics | Elective | 4 | Gender as a Political Category, Patriarchy and Women''''s Movements, Gender Inequality and Quotas, Women in Panchayati Raj, Feminist Theories |
| MAPS403 (B) | Peace and Conflict Studies | Elective | 4 | Concept of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Causes and Types of Conflict, Role of International Organizations, Gandhian Approach to Peace, Non-Violence and Peacebuilding |
| MAPS404 | Dissertation/Project | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology and Data Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethics in Research |
