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B-A in Political Science at R.N. Girls Degree College
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at R.N. Girls Degree College Lucknow?
This Political Science program at R.N. Girls Degree College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and public administration, aligning with the NEP 2020 framework from the University of Lucknow. It delves into Indian and Western political thought, international relations, and contemporary issues. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills relevant to India''''s evolving socio-political landscape and policy-making domain.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in public affairs, governance, and social justice. It attracts individuals aspiring to careers in civil services, journalism, non-profit organizations, or academic research within the Indian context. Students with a strong aptitude for critical analysis, debate, and understanding societal dynamics will find this program particularly rewarding, providing a robust liberal arts education.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, political analysis, policy research, journalism, and social work. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with significant growth potential in government or development sectors. The program also prepares students for postgraduate studies in Political Science, Public Administration, Law, or International Relations, enhancing their academic and professional trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational concepts like state, sovereignty, justice, and key political ideologies from both Indian and Western perspectives. Create concept maps and engage in peer discussions to solidify understanding, building a strong academic base for future semesters.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science textbooks (Class XI/XII), Standard reference books on Political Theory, Online academic forums and study groups
Career Connection
A robust grasp of fundamentals is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, PSC) and for articulating informed opinions in policy-related fields.
Enhance Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong academic writing skills by practicing essay writing, report structuring, and basic research methodologies. Utilize the college library and online academic databases to gather information and cite sources correctly, preparing for advanced coursework.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, JSTOR/Google Scholar (basic searches), Purdue OWL for citation styles
Career Connection
Effective written communication is essential for civil services, journalism, policy analysis, and any research-oriented role.
Engage in Current Affairs Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news, debates, and policy discussions. Participate actively in college debates, seminars, and group discussions to hone analytical skills and form well-reasoned arguments on contemporary political issues relevant to India.
Tools & Resources
Leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Reputable news channels (Lok Sabha TV, Rajya Sabha TV), Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Staying informed is critical for competitive exams and for roles requiring political awareness, such as media, public relations, and advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Indian Political Thought & Administration- (Semester 3-4)
Specialize in understanding the nuances of Indian political thinkers and the intricacies of public administration within the Indian context. Seek out opportunities for mini-projects or presentations on specific policy issues or administrative challenges in India, applying theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Indian Public Administration journals, Reports by NITI Aayog or other government bodies, Books on Indian political history
Career Connection
This deep understanding is invaluable for aspirants of Indian civil services and careers in public policy or governance.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Local Bodies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships with local NGOs, social work organizations, or even political campaigns during breaks. This provides practical exposure to grassroots governance, social advocacy, and the functioning of civil society in India.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites, Local administration offices
Career Connection
Internships offer practical experience, network building, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths in the development and public sectors.
Participate in Model UN and Debate Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in Model United Nations (MUNs) or inter-college debate competitions focusing on international relations or national policy. This enhances negotiation skills, public speaking, diplomatic understanding, and the ability to represent viewpoints effectively.
Tools & Resources
MUN societies in college/city, Debate clubs, Online resources for MUN preparation
Career Connection
Develops crucial soft skills for diplomacy, public service, law, and corporate communication roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
In the final year, choose a topic of significant interest within Political Science and undertake a detailed research project or dissertation. This involves extensive literature review, data collection (if applicable), analysis, and academic writing under faculty guidance, showcasing independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Statistical software (if quantitative research), Academic writing guides
Career Connection
A strong research project is a major asset for postgraduate applications, research assistant roles, and think tank positions.
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
For those aspiring to civil services, begin focused preparation for UPSC or State PSC exams. This includes extensive reading of current affairs, general studies, and optional subjects. Consider joining coaching institutes or dedicated study groups to maintain discipline and track progress.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC recommended books, Online coaching platforms, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Directly prepares for India''''s most prestigious public service careers, offering high impact and leadership roles.
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Semester 5-6)
Attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures by academics, civil servants, and policymakers. Connect with alumni and professionals in relevant fields. Create a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting academic achievements, internships, and skills, for career planning and job search.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional networking events, Alumni association events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and career guidance, vital for successful placements and career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board (as per University of Lucknow general B.A. eligibility criteria)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Minimum 74 credits (comprising 40 credits for Major Political Science papers, 12 for Co-curricular, 18 for Vocational, and 4 for Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses, excluding optional Minor subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-1 | Introduction to Political Science | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Political Science, State and Sovereignty, Key Concepts: Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Theories of Origin of State |
| AECC-1 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Grammar and Usage, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills (Reports, Emails) |
| CC-1 | Food, Nutrition and Hygiene | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Concept of Food and Nutrition, Balanced Diet, Nutritional Deficiencies, Hygiene and Sanitation, Food Preservation |
| VC-1 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-2 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Major Core | 4 | Nationalism and Indian National Movement, Constitutional Development (1909-1935), Constituent Assembly and its Making, Salient Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Duties, Directive Principles |
| AECC-2 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Protection Acts |
| CC-2 | First Aid & Health | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Basic First Aid Principles, Injuries and Fractures, Emergency Situations (Burns, Choking), CPR Techniques, General Health and Wellness |
| VC-2 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-3 | Indian Political Thinkers | Major Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani), Modern Indian Political Thought (Ram Mohan Roy, Gandhi), Ambedkar''''s Social and Political Philosophy, Nehru''''s Vision of India |
| MDC-4 | Public Administration | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Role, Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit) |
| CC-3 | Human Values & Environmental Studies | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Ethics and Morality, Value Education, Relationship with Nature, Environmental Ethics, Sustainable Development |
| VC-3 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-5 | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Governments, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau''''s Social Contract, Marx''''s Theory of Class Struggle and Revolution |
| MDC-6 | International Relations | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, WTO), India''''s Foreign Policy |
| CC-4 | Physical Education & Yoga | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Importance of Physical Fitness, Basic Yoga Asanas, Aerobics and Exercise, Sports and Games, Healthy Lifestyle |
| VC-4 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-7 | Comparative Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Systems, Structural-Functional), Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Political Culture and Socialization |
| MDC-8 | Political Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Participation, Elite Theories, Interest Groups and Pressure Groups, Role of Media in Politics |
| CC-5 | Analytical Ability and Digital Awareness | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Logical Reasoning, Data Interpretation, Basic Computer Concepts, Internet and Cyber Security, Digital Literacy |
| VC-5 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-9 | Research Methodology | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Importance of Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Report Writing, Ethics in Research |
| MDC-10 | Human Rights, Democracy & Citizenship | Major Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Indian Human Rights Institutions, Democracy: Theories and Practice, Citizenship: Rights and Responsibilities |
| CC-6 | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Co-Curricular Course | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Public Speaking, Group Discussion Skills, Interview Techniques, Personality Traits and Development |
| VC-6 | Vocational Course (Student Choice) | Vocational | 3 |
