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M-A in Political Science at Rajiv Gandhi Sanatan Dharam College, Narwana
Jind, Haryana
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Rajiv Gandhi Sanatan Dharam College, Narwana Jind?
This M.A. Political Science program at Rajiv Gandhi Sanatan Dharam College, Jind, focuses on advanced studies in political theories, international relations, comparative politics, and public administration. It equips students with a deep understanding of governance, policy-making, and societal dynamics within the Indian context, preparing them for diverse roles in government, academia, and civil society. The program emphasizes analytical and research skills, crucial for navigating the complex political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Political Science, History, Economics, or related social sciences seeking a comprehensive understanding of political systems. It also caters to aspiring civil servants, educators, researchers, and professionals working in NGOs or policy think tanks who wish to deepen their expertise and advance their careers in the public and social sectors in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in the Indian Civil Services, state administrative services, teaching and research positions, journalism, and political consultancy. Entry-level salaries in government or NGOs typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15+ lakhs for experienced professionals. The analytical and research skills developed are highly valued across various industries in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Knowledge and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core political theories, thinkers, and concepts covered in semesters 1 and 2. Focus on understanding the historical context and evolution of political thought, both Western and Indian. Develop critical thinking by analyzing different perspectives and debating key issues in class discussions and assignments.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Reputable online encyclopedias, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong theoretical foundations are essential for success in competitive exams (UPSC, HPSC) and for advanced research, providing the analytical backbone required for policy analysis and academic careers.
Enhance Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Begin developing academic writing skills by meticulously working on assignments, essays, and presentations. Focus on structuring arguments, proper citation, and clear expression. Start exploring basic research methodologies by identifying interesting topics and formulating preliminary research questions.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, Academic writing guides, Seeking feedback from faculty, University writing workshops
Career Connection
Effective communication and structured writing are critical for civil service examinations, academic publications, policy briefs, and any professional role requiring clear articulation of ideas.
Participate in Academic and Co-curricular Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Join the college''''s debate club, political science society, or student forums. Participate in inter-college quizzes, essay competitions, and seminars related to current affairs and political developments. This helps in networking with peers and faculty while broadening perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College/University student associations, Local news and analysis platforms (The Hindu, Indian Express), Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Improves public speaking, analytical debate skills, and general awareness, which are highly valued in roles like journalism, public relations, and civil services.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge through Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively seek out local NGOs, political organizations, or government departments for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities during semester breaks. Apply theoretical concepts learned in Comparative Politics, State Politics, and Public Administration to real-world scenarios and policy challenges.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Local NGO directories, Online internship platforms (Internshala), Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Practical exposure helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, making students more attractive to employers and providing valuable insights for future career choices in policy analysis or social work.
Specialize and Deepen Research in Electives- (Semester 3)
Choose elective papers strategically based on career interests (e.g., Human Rights, Local Government). Engage deeply with specific topics, going beyond the syllabus to read contemporary debates and scholarly articles. This is crucial for future specialization and dissertation topic selection.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, Research papers on JSTOR/EBSCO, Online courses on specific political science subfields (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL)
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a niche area, which is beneficial for pursuing Ph.D. studies, becoming a subject matter expert in a think tank, or specializing in certain government departments.
Network with Faculty and External Experts- (Semester 3)
Attend guest lectures, seminars, and workshops organized by the college or university. Proactively interact with faculty members to discuss research ideas, career paths, and seek mentorship. Connect with visiting scholars or experts from the political science field.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, LinkedIn for professional networking, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Mentorship and networking can open doors to research opportunities, academic references, and professional connections that are vital for career progression in academia, research, or policy.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the compulsory Dissertation/Project Work in Semester 4. Choose a relevant and impactful research topic, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data rigorously, and present findings in a well-structured and scholarly manner. Prepare diligently for the viva-voce.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, Statistical software (if applicable), Academic writing tools, CRSU research guidelines
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases advanced research capabilities and critical analysis, which is crucial for higher studies (Ph.D.) and research-oriented roles in think tanks or academia. It''''s a key differentiator in the job market.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations and Placements- (Semester 4)
Begin intensive preparation for civil services examinations (UPSC, HPSC), UGC NET/JRF, or other relevant competitive tests. Simultaneously, attend placement workshops conducted by the college, prepare a strong resume, and practice interview skills for opportunities in NGOs, media, or other organizations.
Tools & Resources
Online test series, Coaching institutes (if opting), Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions, Online job portals (Naukri.com, Indeed)
Career Connection
Direct preparation for target career paths ensures readiness for the job market or further academic pursuits immediately after graduation.
Engage in Public Discourse and Policy Debates- (Semester 4)
Follow national and international political developments closely. Contribute to college publications, local newspapers, or online platforms with well-researched opinions on contemporary issues. Participate in public forums or policy discussions to refine understanding and advocacy skills.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news sources, Policy journals, Online forums for political discussion, College magazine
Career Connection
Develops strong communication and advocacy skills, crucial for roles in public relations, political communication, policy advisory, and leadership positions in civil society organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with Political Science as one of the subjects having at least 45% marks in Political Science subject or 50% marks in aggregate, from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21MPOL11C1 | Theories of International Relations | Core | 4 | Idealism and Realism, Neo-Realism and Neo-Liberalism, Marxism and Critical Theories, Feminist and Post-Modernist Theories, Constructivism |
| 21MPOL12C2 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy, M.K. Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, Jawaharlal Nehru, Jayaprakash Narayan |
| 21MPOL13C3 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Administrative Behaviour, Bureaucracy, Financial Administration, Good Governance |
| 21MPOL14C4 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 4 | Liberalism, Communitarianism, Multiculturalism, Rights, Justice, Democracy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21MPOL21C5 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment, India and Major Powers, India and SAARC, India''''s Nuclear Policy |
| 21MPOL22C6 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, John Stuart Mill, Karl Marx |
| 21MPOL23C7 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems, Constitutions, Political Parties, Electoral Systems |
| 21MPOL24C8 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles, Union Executive, Parliament, Judiciary, Federalism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21MPOL31C9 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Significance of Research, Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Hypothesis, Report Writing |
| 21MPOL32C10 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Constitutional Framework of States, Role of Governor, Chief Minister and Council of Ministers, State Legislature, Party System in States, Regionalism |
| 21MPOL33DE1 | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Instruments |
| 21MPOL33DE2 | Principles of International Law | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Law, Sources of International Law, State Recognition, Jurisdiction, Law of Treaties, International Court of Justice |
| 21MPOL34DE3 | Local Government and Administration | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Local Government, 73rd and 74th Amendments, Rural Local Government (Panchayati Raj), Urban Local Government (Municipalities), Local Finance |
| 21MPOL34DE4 | Development Administration | Elective | 4 | Concept of Development Administration, Bureaucracy and Development, Planning, Public Sector Undertakings, Poverty Alleviation Programs, Sustainable Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21MPOL41C11 | International Organization | Core | 4 | Concept of International Organizations, League of Nations, United Nations (UN), UN Organs, Specialized Agencies, Regional Organizations |
| 21MPOL42C12 | Global Politics | Core | 4 | Globalization, Environmental Politics, Terrorism, Human Security, Nuclear Proliferation, Global Commons |
| 21MPOL43DE5 | Social and Political Movements in India | Elective | 4 | Nature and Types of Movements, Peasant Movements, Working Class Movements, Women''''s Movements, Environmental Movements, Dalit Movements |
| 21MPOL43DE6 | India and the World | Elective | 4 | India''''s Role in Changing World Order, India and Asia, India and Africa, India and Latin America, India''''s Multilateral Engagements, Diaspora |
| 21MPOL44PR | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Viva-Voce |
