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M-A in Political Science at RAM MANOHAR LOHIA DEGREE COLLEGE
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at RAM MANOHAR LOHIA DEGREE COLLEGE Deoria?
This M.A. Political Science program at Ram Manohar Lohia Degree College focuses on providing a deep, analytical understanding of political theories, systems, governance, and international relations, with a significant emphasis on the Indian context. It equips students with critical thinking and research skills crucial for navigating the complex political landscape, addressing a growing demand for informed public policy and governance experts in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in humanities or social sciences who aspire to careers in public service, policy analysis, or academia. It also suits working professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of political processes, and individuals aiming for competitive examinations like the Civil Services, where a strong grasp of Indian polity and international affairs is essential.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services, legislative support, policy research in think tanks, journalism, advocacy with NGOs, and teaching. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 to 5 Lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 Lakhs or more, especially in policy and research. The program also lays a strong foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories and Concepts- (undefined)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the foundational theories of Western and Indian political thought, and core concepts of governance and international relations. Engage actively in classroom discussions and review classic texts. This builds a robust theoretical framework for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Mainstream), classic political philosophy texts, DDUGU library resources, peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is indispensable for analytical roles in policy, research, and competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services, enabling critical analysis of political phenomena.
Deep Dive into Indian Government and Politics- (undefined)
Beyond textbooks, immerse yourself in the dynamics of Indian politics. Regularly read reputable newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), follow parliamentary proceedings, and analyze current events through a political lens. Participate in debates on contemporary Indian issues.
Tools & Resources
Quality newspapers, official government reports (e.g., PRS Legislative Research), political news analysis channels, college debate clubs
Career Connection
Essential for roles in civil services, political journalism, policy advocacy, and any career requiring a nuanced understanding of the Indian political system and its challenges.
Develop Foundational Research and Writing Skills- (undefined)
Start practicing academic writing, essay construction, and basic research methods introduced in the curriculum. Pay attention to citation styles and structuring arguments. This cultivates the discipline needed for higher-level research and effective communication.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, online academic writing guides, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing, faculty guidance for feedback
Career Connection
Crucial for future dissertation work, academic pursuits, policy report writing, and any professional role demanding clear, evidence-based communication and analytical thinking.
Intermediate Stage
Engage Actively with Public Policy and Administration- (undefined)
Translate theoretical knowledge of public administration and policy into practical understanding. Analyze current government policies, attend public lectures or webinars on policy implementation, and identify areas for administrative reforms. Look for case studies on governance issues in Uttar Pradesh.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Ministry of Public Administration documents, local government portals, workshops on public policy
Career Connection
Prepares students for roles in public administration, think tanks, and policy analysis, by fostering an understanding of governance mechanisms and policy impacts on society.
Cultivate Global Affairs and Indian Foreign Policy Expertise- (undefined)
Beyond theoretical international relations, focus on current global issues and India''''s strategic responses. Regularly follow international news, read analyses of foreign policy decisions, and understand the geopolitical implications. Consider joining a Model UN club or international relations forum.
Tools & Resources
Foreign Policy, The Diplomat, ORF publications, Ministry of External Affairs website, Model UN simulations
Career Connection
Develops expertise valuable for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, foreign service, global journalism, and international business intelligence.
Initiate Dissertation/Project Research Planning- (undefined)
Begin early identification of potential research interests, conduct preliminary literature reviews for relevant topics, and discuss ideas with faculty mentors. This proactive approach ensures a well-structured and impactful final project, which is a significant component of the M.A. program.
Tools & Resources
Research guides, academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), faculty office hours, DDUGU research resources
Career Connection
Lays the groundwork for academic research careers, provides a tangible output for job applications, and hones advanced analytical and problem-solving skills highly valued in professional settings.
Advanced Stage
Integrate Competitive Exam Preparation- (undefined)
For those aspiring to Civil Services or other competitive exams, strategically integrate your M.A. studies with exam preparation. Use Political Science as an optional subject, practice answer writing for mains exams, and stay updated on current affairs relevant to governance and policy.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PCS previous year papers, specialized coaching materials, current affairs magazines, study circles
Career Connection
Directly enhances chances for securing coveted positions in Indian government administration, leveraging the academic depth gained in the program.
Pursue Internships and Professional Networking- (undefined)
Actively seek out internships with government bodies, NGOs, think tanks, or media organizations to gain practical experience. Attend seminars, workshops, and network with professionals and alumni in your chosen field. Utilize online professional platforms.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, internship portals (e.g., Internshala), college career services (if available), industry conferences and webinars
Career Connection
Crucial for bridging academic learning with real-world application, building a professional network, and enhancing employability through practical exposure and potential pre-placement offers.
Refine Portfolio and Career Strategy- (undefined)
Develop a strong professional resume showcasing your research skills, academic achievements, and practical experiences. Practice interview skills, identify target organizations, and tailor your application materials. Seek guidance from faculty on potential career paths and higher education opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Resume builders, mock interview sessions, career counseling, alumni mentorship programs
Career Connection
Maximizes placement prospects, clarifies career goals, and prepares students for a successful transition into their chosen professional or academic trajectories after graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-101 | Western Political Thought (Classical and Modern) | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Education, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Morality in Politics, Prince, Hobbes: Social Contract, Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle |
| POLSC-102 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constituent Assembly and Constitution Making, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, Federalism in India, Parliamentary System: President, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, Judicial Review, Electoral System and Reforms, Political Parties and Pressure Groups |
| POLSC-103 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Scientific Management, Human Relations, Bureaucracy: Max Weber''''s concept, merits and demerits, Personnel Administration: Recruitment, Training, Motivation, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Concept of Good Governance, Administrative Reforms |
| POLSC-104 | International Relations (Theory) | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations: Idealism, Realism, Cold War and End of Cold War, Non-Alignment Movement: Principles and Relevance, Balance of Power, Collective Security, Disarmament and Arms Control, International Political Economy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-201 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics: Traditional, Behavioral, Post-Behavioral, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Electoral Systems: Plurality, Proportional Representation, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Party Systems: One-Party, Two-Party, Multi-Party, Pressure Groups and Interest Articulation, Democratization and its Challenges |
| POLSC-202 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Liberalism, Social Reform, M.K. Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Sarvodaya, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Annihilation of Caste, J.L. Nehru: Socialism, Secularism, Non-Alignment, V.D. Savarkar: Hindutva, Nationalism, Ram Manohar Lohia: Socialism, Decentralization, Jayaprakash Narayan: Total Revolution, Partyless Democracy |
| POLSC-203 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Social Science Research, Formulation of Research Problem, Hypothesis, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Explanatory, Methods of Data Collection: Interview, Questionnaire, Observation, Sampling Techniques: Probability and Non-Probability, Data Analysis: Qualitative and Quantitative, Report Writing: Structure and Referencing |
| POLSC-204 | International Relations (Current Issues) | Core | 4 | Globalisation: Economic, Political, Cultural Dimensions, Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, EU, International Terrorism, Human Rights and Humanitarian Intervention, Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Nuclear Proliferation, Role of International Financial Institutions: WTO, World Bank, IMF |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-301 | Theory of International Politics | Core | 4 | Neo-Realism and Neo-Liberalism, Constructivism in International Relations, Critical Theory and Post-Modernism, Feminist Approaches to International Relations, World Systems Theory, Concept of Power and Power Politics, Ethics and Morality in International Relations |
| POLSC-302 | Human Rights and International Law | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), International Covenants on Civil, Political, Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, International Criminal Court (ICC), Refugee Law and Asylum, Role of UN Human Rights Bodies, Human Rights in India |
| POLSC-303 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Evolution of Non-Alignment: From Nehru to Modi, India and Major Powers: USA, Russia, China, India and its Neighbors: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Look East/Act East Policy, India''''s Role in UN and International Organizations, Economic Diplomacy and Trade Relations |
| POLSC-304 | Local Government and Administration in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Self-Government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, Structure and Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporations, Councils, Nagar Panchayats, Decentralization and Democratic Participation, Challenges of Local Governance: Finance, Autonomy, Role of State Government in Local Administration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-404 | Dissertation/Project Work | Elective / Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection and Rationale, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Conclusion and Policy Implications, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva-Voce Examination |
| POLSC-405 | International Law | Elective | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, Subjects of International Law: States, International Organizations, Recognition, State Succession, Law of Treaties, International Disputes Settlement: Arbitration, Judicial Settlement, Use of Force in International Relations, Law of the Sea |
| POLSC-406 | Urban Governance in India | Elective | 4 | Concept and Challenges of Urbanization in India, Urban Planning and Development Authorities, Finances of Urban Local Bodies, Smart Cities Mission, Housing and Slum Policies, Urban Environmental Governance, Citizen Participation in Urban Governance |
| POLSC-407 | Political Sociology | Elective | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Political Sociology, State, Society and Power, Political Culture and Legitimacy, Social Stratification: Class, Caste, Gender and Politics, Political Parties and Social Movements, Role of Media in Politics, Democracy and Civil Society |
