

B-A in Political Science at Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur


Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya, Jabalpur Jabalpur?
This Political Science program at Rani Durgavati Vishwavidyalaya focuses on understanding governance, political systems, and international relations. It covers both theoretical foundations and practical applications relevant to India''''s dynamic political landscape. The curriculum is designed under NEP 2020, emphasizing analytical skills and critical thinking for students entering public service or related fields.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, public administration, or policy analysis. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in governance or international affairs, and career changers transitioning to roles in NGOs, think tanks, or journalism. A keen interest in societal issues and current affairs is a key prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (UPSC, PSC), political analysis, journalism, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in government or policy organizations. The analytical skills acquired are also valuable for further academic pursuits and competitive examinations.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand foundational theories of state, sovereignty, liberty, and justice. Utilize recommended textbooks and engage in critical discussions during tutorials. Form study groups to analyze diverse political ideologies and their historical contexts. This builds a strong conceptual base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, NCERT Political Science textbooks, Class Discussions, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, providing the necessary theoretical depth for essay and general studies papers.
Engage with Indian Political System- (Semester 1-2)
Actively follow Indian political developments, parliamentary proceedings, and government policies. Read leading national newspapers daily and reputable online news sources. Participate in college debates and seminars focused on current Indian political affairs to develop an informed perspective.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV
Career Connection
This practice is indispensable for civil services preparation, journalism, and political analysis, enabling informed participation in policy discussions and public discourse.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, report structuring, and basic research methodologies as per practical components of major papers. Utilize library databases for academic sources and practice citing references correctly. This skill is vital for all academic and professional pursuits.
Tools & Resources
Academic Writing Guides, University Library Database, Microsoft Word/Google Docs
Career Connection
Strong writing and research skills are fundamental for higher education, research roles, policy drafting, and effective communication in any professional setting.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Diverse Political Thoughts- (Semester 3-4)
Delve deep into Western and Indian political thinkers, understanding their philosophies and their relevance to contemporary issues. Analyze primary texts where possible and engage in comparative studies. This broadens intellectual horizons and analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Original texts by philosophers, Academic journals, NPTEL/Swayam online lecture series
Career Connection
This deep understanding is invaluable for advanced research, academic careers, and developing nuanced arguments required in policy and intellectual discourse.
Participate in Model UN and Debates- (Semester 3-4)
Join college Model UN simulations or debate clubs to hone negotiation, diplomacy, and public speaking skills. Research international issues thoroughly and represent different countries'''' stances. This provides practical exposure to international relations and governance.
Tools & Resources
Model UN societies, Debate clubs, UN official websites
Career Connection
Excellent preparation for careers in international organizations, diplomacy, public relations, and advocacy, enhancing communication and leadership skills.
Undertake Internships with NGOs or Local Government- (Semester 3-4)
Seek out short-term internships with local NGOs, political parties, or municipal corporations. This hands-on experience provides practical insights into governance, public policy implementation, and social work, bridging theoretical knowledge with real-world challenges.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO directories, Local government offices
Career Connection
Practical experience enhances resumes, builds professional networks, and can lead to future employment opportunities in the social sector, public administration, and advocacy.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Public Policy Analysis and Research- (Semester 5-6)
Develop skills in analyzing public policy frameworks, understanding their impact, and proposing solutions. Engage in independent research projects on contemporary policy challenges, utilizing quantitative and qualitative research methods. This prepares for evidence-based policy roles.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS for basic data analysis), Policy research institutes'''' reports, Government survey data
Career Connection
Directly relevant for roles in policy think tanks, government departments, public administration, and research institutions requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
If aspiring for civil services, begin focused preparation for UPSC or State PSC examinations. This includes dedicated study of General Studies, Political Science optional, regular mock tests, and current affairs analysis. Join coaching classes or dedicated study groups if beneficial.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC previous year papers, Standard reference books, Online coaching platforms, Mentorship programs
Career Connection
This is a direct pathway to prestigious government careers, offering leadership roles in various administrative and policy-making capacities across India.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 5-6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and alumni meets to connect with professionals in public administration, academia, and international organizations. Seek mentorship and gain insights into career paths and industry trends. Building a strong professional network is crucial for job placements and future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University Alumni Network, Professional Conferences
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, internships, and valuable career advice, significantly boosting placement prospects and long-term career growth in India''''s competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-101 | Foundations of Political Science | Major Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Theories of State Origin, Elements, Functions, Key Concepts: Sovereignty, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy and Dictatorship, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Practical/Project: Field work/Survey on Local Self-Government (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-M1 | Principles of Public Administration | Minor Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Accountability and Control |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-201 | Indian Government and Politics | Major Core | 6 | Constituent Assembly and Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Duties, Directive Principles, Union Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, State Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, Panchayati Raj and Urban Local Self-Government, Practical/Project: Study of Election Process/Local Government (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-E1 | International Relations | Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations: Organs, Functions, Contemporary Global Issues |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-301 | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 6 | Classical Greek Thought: Plato, Aristotle, Early Modern Thought: Machiavelli, Hobbes, Social Contract Theorists: Locke, Rousseau, Utilitarianism: Bentham, J.S. Mill, Idealism: Hegel, Green, Practical/Project: Seminar/Report on Contemporary Relevance of a Thinker (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-M2 | Indian Political Thought | Minor Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Kautilya, Manusmriti, Medieval Indian Political Thought: Barani, Abul Fazal, Modern Indian Political Thought: Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru, Integral Humanism: Deendayal Upadhyay |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-401 | Comparative Government and Politics | Major Core | 6 | Nature, Scope and Methods of Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism and Political Culture, Political Systems: UK, USA, China, Electoral Systems and Pressure Groups, Challenges to Nation-States, Practical/Project: Case Study of Political Party in Two Countries (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-E2 | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Concept and Theories of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission, Contemporary Issues: Child Rights, Women''''s Rights |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-501 | Public Administration in India | Major Core | 6 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Union Administration: Cabinet Secretariat, PMO, State Administration: Chief Secretary, District Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, Accountability and Control, Practical/Project: Case Study of a Public Policy (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-M3 | Political Sociology | Minor Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture, Socialization, Caste, Class, Religion and Politics, Political Modernization, Elite and Mass Theories |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P0L-601 | International Law | Major Core | 6 | Nature and Sources of International Law, State Recognition, Succession, Law of the Sea, Air, Space, International Human Rights Law, Peaceful Settlement of Disputes, Practical/Project: Study of an International Treaty (25 marks internal assessment) |
| P0L-E3 | Diplomacy | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Diplomacy, Evolution of Diplomacy, Types of Diplomacy, Diplomatic Agents and Functions, India''''s Diplomatic Relations |




