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MA in Political Science at SANGAMESHWAR DEGREE COLLEGE
Bagalkote, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at SANGAMESHWAR DEGREE COLLEGE Bagalkote?
This M.A. Political Science program at Sangameshwar Degree College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into global political dynamics, public administration, and socio-political movements. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, addressing contemporary political challenges and preparing students for diverse roles in governance, research, and civil services, reflecting India''''s dynamic political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in political science or related humanities seeking to deepen their academic knowledge and pursue research. It also caters to working professionals in public service, NGOs, or media who wish to enhance their understanding of policy-making and governance. Aspiring civil servants and those preparing for competitive examinations will find the rigorous curriculum highly beneficial, offering a structured path for career advancement in the public sector.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as political analysts, policy researchers, journalists, and educators in India. Opportunities also exist in governmental bodies, think tanks, and international organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with advanced analytical and communication skills crucial for success in India''''s competitive job market, including preparation for UPSC and KPSC examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Theoretical Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically study foundational political theories, concepts of governance, and comparative political systems. Focus on building strong conceptual clarity through structured notes, group discussions, and regular revision.
Tools & Resources
Classic political texts, academic journals, online lecture series (NPTEL, SWAYAM), peer learning groups
Career Connection
Establishes a robust knowledge base essential for higher studies, competitive exams, and analytical roles in political research.
Master Research and Analytical Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Develop proficiency in research methodologies, data collection techniques, and academic writing. Practice writing essays, reports, and literature reviews to articulate complex ideas clearly.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s research guides, workshops on academic writing, citation management software (Mendeley, Zotero), peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for roles in academia, think tanks, policy analysis, and any profession requiring rigorous report generation and evidence-based arguments.
Engage with Indian Political Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Deepen understanding of Indian political thought, constitutional framework, and current affairs. Actively follow national political debates, policy changes, and socio-political movements through reputable media.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), PRS Legislative Research, Lok Sabha TV, academic articles on Indian politics
Career Connection
Provides crucial context for civil services, journalism, and advocacy roles within India, fostering informed participation.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3 (or breaks before/during))
Seek short-term internships with NGOs, local government bodies, or political organizations during semester breaks or alongside studies. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world policy or administrative challenges.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, online internship portals (Internshala), direct outreach to organizations in Bagalkote/Belagavi
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, professional networks, and enhances resumes, significantly improving employability in the public and development sectors.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Learning- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose optional subjects that align with specific career interests (e.g., international relations, public policy, human rights). Supplement coursework with advanced online modules or certifications in specialized areas.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL for specialized topics, academic forums and conferences related to chosen specialization
Career Connection
Develops niche expertise, making graduates more competitive for specialized roles in research, diplomacy, or policy advocacy.
Participate in Policy-Oriented Competitions/Workshops- (Semester 3)
Join policy hackathons, model UN simulations, or workshops focused on policy analysis and proposal writing. These activities hone problem-solving and collaborative skills in a real-world context.
Tools & Resources
College societies, external organizations hosting such events, case study competitions
Career Connection
Enhances practical policy formulation skills and strategic thinking, highly valued in think tanks, government consultancies, and public administration.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Comprehensive Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Focus intensely on the mandatory dissertation or project work, conducting original research, data analysis, and presenting findings in a scholarly manner. Seek extensive faculty mentorship.
Tools & Resources
University library, research databases, statistical software if applicable, regular meetings with supervisor, academic writing support
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent work ethics, crucial for academic careers, Ph.D. admissions, and high-level research positions.
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services and Placements- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for UPSC/KPSC exams, including optional subjects, general studies, and current affairs. Attend campus placement drives, prepare a professional resume, and practice interview skills.
Tools & Resources
Coaching materials, mock interviews, career counselling services, alumni network, online job portals, company-specific preparation guides
Career Connection
Directly targets highly competitive government and private sector roles, ensuring readiness for selection processes.
Network and Build Professional Mentorships- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with alumni, faculty, and professionals in the political science domain through seminars, conferences, and online platforms. Seek out mentors who can provide career guidance and industry insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, alumni events, professional association meetings, informational interviews
Career Connection
Facilitates job searches, provides valuable industry connections, and offers long-term career support and guidance beyond graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Any Bachelor''''s Degree with Political Science as a major/optional subject or any Bachelor''''s degree with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I) in aggregate.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 1.1 | Theories of Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Approaches to Political Science, Major Political Concepts (State, Power, Sovereignty), Political Obligation, Rights, Justice, Liberty, Equality |
| POL 1.2 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Manu, Shanti Parva), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazal), Modern Indian Political Thought (Roy, Gandhi, Ambedkar), Savarkar, Nehru |
| POL 1.3 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy, Decision Making, Leadership, Communication, Public Policy |
| POL 1.4 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Principles (Non-alignment), Relations with Major Powers, Relations with Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka), SAARC, India''''s role in UN |
| POL 1.5 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Generations of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Law |
| POL 1.6 | International Relations | Open Elective | 4 | Meaning and Scope of International Relations, Theories (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War, Post-Cold War Era, Globalisation, International Terrorism, UN, Regional Organizations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 2.1 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, J.S. Mill, Marx |
| POL 2.2 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches (Traditional, Modern), Political Systems, Constitutions, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Interest Groups |
| POL 2.3 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Scientific Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| POL 2.4 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture, Political Socialization, Political Participation, Elites, Pressure Groups, Social Movements, State and Society |
| POL 2.5 | Principles of International Law | Core | 4 | Nature and Sources of International Law, State Recognition, Jurisdiction, Law of Treaties, United Nations, International Criminal Court |
| POL 2.6 | Public Policy and Governance | Open Elective | 4 | Public Policy Process, Models of Public Policy, Good Governance, E-Governance, Right to Information, Citizen''''s Charters |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 3.1 | Modern Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Political System, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Political Communication, Political Development, Political Modernization |
| POL 3.2 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Nature of State Politics, Regionalism, Language Politics, Caste and Politics, Political Parties in States, Coalition Politics, Panchayati Raj |
| POL 3.3 | Indian Constitution | Core | 4 | Salient Features, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Fundamental Duties, Union Executive, Parliament, Judiciary, Centre-State Relations, Constitutional Amendments |
| POL 3.4 | Globalisation and India | Optional - Group A | 4 | Concept of Globalisation, Economic, Political, Cultural dimensions, Impact on Indian Economy, Society, Politics, Anti-Globalisation Movements |
| POL 3.5 | Political Economy of Development | Optional - Group A | 4 | Theories of Development, Underdevelopment, Dependency Theory, State and Market, Global Capital, Role of IMF, World Bank, WTO |
| POL 3.6 | Gender and Politics | Open Elective | 4 | Concept of Gender, Patriarchy, Women''''s Movements, Women in Politics, Gender Budgeting, Legal provisions for women |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 4.1 | International Political Economy | Core | 4 | Theories of IPE, Bretton Woods System, Monetary Regimes, Trade Regimes, Multinational Corporations, Global Financial Crises |
| POL 4.2 | Politics of Developing Countries | Core | 4 | Characteristics of Developing Countries, Challenges of Development, Political Instability, Military in Politics, Democratisation, Neo-colonialism |
| POL 4.3 | Social Movements in India | Core | 4 | Concept of Social Movements, Farmers'''' Movements, Tribal Movements, Dalit Movements, Environmental Movements, Women''''s Movements, Human Rights Movements |
| POL 4.4 | Human Security | Optional - Group B | 4 | Concept of Human Security, Food Security, Health Security, Environmental Security, Personal Security, Community Security, Political Security |
| POL 4.5 | Conflict Resolution | Optional - Group B | 4 | Nature of Conflict, Causes of Conflict, Types of Conflict, Conflict Management, Negotiation, Mediation, Peacemaking, Peacebuilding |
| POL 4.6 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Viva Voce |
