.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-A-HONS in Political Science at RK University
Rajkot, Gujarat
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at RK University Rajkot?
This Political Science program at RK University focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and processes, both in India and globally. It emphasizes critical analysis of governance, public policy, and international relations, equipping students with deep insights into contemporary political challenges and their solutions within the Indian context. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical and critical thinking skills.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream seeking entry into civil services, public administration, or policy analysis roles. It also suits individuals passionate about social change, journalism, or academia, offering a robust foundation for advanced studies in political science, law, or public affairs in India. Aspiring educators and researchers will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in government, NGOs, media, or think tanks in India. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience for roles like policy analyst, research associate, public relations specialist, or civil servant. The program aligns well with competitive exams for state and central government services, offering excellent growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core political theories and constitutional principles. Actively participate in classroom discussions, read prescribed texts thoroughly, and use online resources like Political Science Quarterly or EPW (Economic and Political Weekly) for deeper insights into Indian politics.
Tools & Resources
University library, Course textbooks, Online academic journals, Study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, GPSC) and analytical roles in policy research, public administration, and journalism.
Enhance Communication and Critical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively work on improving written and verbal communication skills, especially through essay writing and presentations. Practice analyzing current events from a political science perspective. Engage in debates and model UN simulations available at the university or local level.
Tools & Resources
Debating clubs, Model UN societies, Online writing guides, Newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
Essential for public speaking, journalism, policy advocacy, civil service interviews, and effective participation in democratic processes.
Understand India''''s Political Landscape- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, keep abreast of Indian political developments through reliable news sources and political analyses. Attend seminars or workshops on contemporary Indian politics. Connect theoretical knowledge with real-world scenarios and policy debates.
Tools & Resources
Major Indian newspapers, Reputable news channels, Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV, PRS Legislative Research
Career Connection
Direct relevance for roles in Indian government, policy think tanks, political journalism, and electoral analysis.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Research and Policy Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Develop basic research skills by undertaking mini-projects or term papers on specific public administration or international relations topics. Learn to gather, analyze, and present data effectively. Seek mentorship from faculty for research guidance and academic publication opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University research facilities, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Basic statistical software (Excel)
Career Connection
Prepares for roles as research assistants, policy analysts, academic pursuits, and contributes to strong analytical skills valued in various sectors.
Seek Internships and Field Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internship opportunities with NGOs working on governance, social justice, or human rights; local government bodies; or political consultancies in India. Gain practical exposure to policy implementation, grassroots political processes, and development work.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, Online internship portals (Internshala), Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Builds practical experience and networks vital for placements in the development sector, public affairs, advocacy, and social impact roles.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Present papers at student conferences, participate in policy brief competitions, or join inter-university quizzes focusing on political science and current affairs. This hones presentation skills, intellectual rigor, and encourages scholarly interaction.
Tools & Resources
Department notices, University clubs, National/international student conference listings
Career Connection
Boosts academic profile, enhances critical thinking, provides networking opportunities with peers and scholars, and strengthens public speaking abilities.
Advanced Stage
Master Advanced Specializations & UPSC Prep- (Semester 6)
Deepen knowledge in chosen DSE subjects (e.g., International Law, Human Rights, Indian Foreign Policy). Simultaneously, if aspiring for civil services, dedicate significant time to UPSC/GPSC preparation, focusing on optional subjects and general studies pertinent to political science.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/GPSC coaching materials, Previous year papers, Specialized textbooks, Online test series
Career Connection
Directly prepares for high-stakes government examinations and advanced roles in policy formulation, administration, and public service.
Develop Professional Networking- (Semester 6)
Attend webinars, workshops, and conclaves organized by reputed think tanks, universities, or government bodies. Connect with alumni, professors, and professionals in the political science domain through platforms like LinkedIn to build a strong professional network.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association)
Career Connection
Crucial for job search, mentorship, identifying niche opportunities in government, NGOs, academia, and staying abreast of industry trends.
Undertake a Capstone Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Complete a comprehensive research project or dissertation under faculty supervision, applying all learned theories and research methodologies to a contemporary political issue. This demonstrates analytical and independent research capabilities and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
University library, Academic databases, Research software, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
Provides a strong portfolio piece for higher education applications, research positions, or think tank roles, showcasing expertise and analytical rigor essential for advanced careers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must have passed 12th Standard from any stream, with minimum 40% aggregate marks in any discipline from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 102 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0101 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | What is Politics, What is Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, Concept of Liberty, Concept of Equality, Concept of Justice |
| PSSC0102 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core | 4 | The Constituent Assembly, Philosophy of the Constitution, Features of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Organs of Government (Executive, Legislature, Judiciary) |
| AECC0101 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Introduction to Communication, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar in Use |
| AECC0102 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and the Environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0201 | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates | Core | 4 | Concept of Rights, Concept of Citizenship, Concept of State, Power, Sovereignty, Democracy |
| PSSC0202 | Political Process in India | Core | 4 | Parties and Party System, Elections and Electoral Reforms, Regional Aspirations, Social Movements, Religion and Politics, Caste and Politics |
| GE0201 | Generic Elective 1 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Generic Elective | 4 | Interdisciplinary topics as per student''''s choice from other disciplines like History, Economics, Psychology, etc. |
| AECC0201 | Gujarati/Hindi Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Basic Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Essay Writing, Official Correspondence, Cultural Context, Oral Communication |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0301 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Understanding Comparative Politics, Historical Context of Modern Governments, Typologies of Regimes, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Federalism |
| PSSC0302 | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core | 4 | Public Administration as a Discipline, Classical Approach, Human Relations Approach, Rational Choice Approach, Public Policy, Accountability and Control |
| PSSC0303 | Perspectives on International Relations and World History | Core | 4 | What is International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations, Globalisation, International Political Economy |
| SEC0301 | Skill Enhancement Course 1 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Legislative Practices and Procedures, Public Opinion and Survey Research, Understanding Social Movements, Introduction to Cyber Security |
| GE0301 | Generic Elective 2 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Generic Elective | 4 | Interdisciplinary topics as per student''''s choice from other disciplines |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0401 | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core | 4 | Constitutional Frameworks, Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism, Local Governance, Social Movements |
| PSSC0402 | Public Policy and Administration in India | Core | 4 | Public Policy: Meaning and Approaches, Policy Making Process in India, Decentralisation, Social Welfare Administration, Public Grievance Redressal, E-Governance |
| PSSC0403 | Global Politics | Core | 4 | India''''s Foreign Policy, Key Issues in Global Politics, Security, Human Rights, Environment, Global Governance, Regional Organizations |
| SEC0401 | Skill Enhancement Course 2 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Understanding Conflict and Peace Building, Research Methods in Political Science, Gender and Politics, Digital Citizenship |
| GE0401 | Generic Elective 3 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Generic Elective | 4 | Interdisciplinary topics as per student''''s choice from other disciplines |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0501 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Education, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Power, Hobbes: Social Contract, State of Nature, Locke: Natural Rights, Property, Rousseau: General Will, Inequality |
| PSSC0502 | Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Barani''''s Fatawa-i-Jahandari, Abul Fazl''''s Ain-i-Akbari, Early Muslim thinkers, Raja Ram Mohan Roy |
| DSE0501 | Discipline Specific Elective 1 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective, Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India, Understanding South Asia, Peace and Conflict Studies |
| DSE0502 | Discipline Specific Elective 2 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | India''''s Foreign Policy, Public Policy in India, Modern Political Philosophy, Postcolonial Theory |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSSC0601 | Modern Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | Bentham: Utilitarianism, Mill: Liberty, Representation, Hegel: State, Dialectics, Marx: Class Struggle, Capitalism, Feminism: Gender, Patriarchy, Arendt: Totalitarianism, Power |
| PSSC0602 | Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Ambedkar: Caste, Social Justice, Nehru: Nationalism, Socialism, Savarkar: Hindutva, Integral Humanism, Jayaprakash Narayan: Total Revolution, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism |
| DSE0601 | Discipline Specific Elective 3 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Women, Power and Politics, Disasters and Vulnerability, State Institutions and Public Policy, Political Sociology |
| DSE0602 | Discipline Specific Elective 4 (Student''''s Choice from university list) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Conflict and Peace Building, Contemporary Political Theory, Environmental Politics, Ethics and Politics |
