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M-A-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in General at Sardar Patel University
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sardar Patel University Anand?
This M.A. Political Science program at Sardar Patel University focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and international relations. It delves into Indian and Western political thought, public administration, and contemporary global issues, equipping students with analytical and critical thinking skills essential for understanding the dynamics of governance and power structures. The program emphasizes India-specific political contexts and their global implications.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a bachelor''''s degree in any discipline, particularly those from humanities or social sciences, seeking entry into public service, research, or academia. It also serves professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of policy-making, international affairs, or deepen their analytical capabilities for roles in NGOs, think tanks, or government. Aspiring civil servants and educators will find this program particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (IAS, IPS, etc.), journalism, policy analysis, research, teaching, and international organizations. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15+ LPA in policy or research roles. The program also prepares students for further academic pursuits like M.Phil. or Ph.D., opening doors to advanced research and professorships.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories (Western, Indian, Advanced Political Theory) and concepts of Public Administration and International Relations. Regularly review canonical texts and engage in discussions to clarify complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
University library for classic political science texts, Online academic journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Form study groups for collaborative learning
Career Connection
A strong theoretical grasp is crucial for analytical roles in policy research, civil services examinations, and informed commentary, providing a deep understanding of political phenomena.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course, practicing academic writing, citation techniques, and basic data collection methods. Start building an annotated bibliography on areas of interest.
Tools & Resources
Reference management tools (Zotero, Mendeley), Practice essay writing and critical analysis, Seek feedback from professors on assignments
Career Connection
Excellent research and writing skills are indispensable for careers in academia, journalism, policy analysis, and any role requiring articulate communication and evidence-based arguments.
Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Politics- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically follow national and international news, editorials, and political analyses from reputable Indian media outlets. Connect theoretical concepts learned in class to real-world political developments in India.
Tools & Resources
Leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates, Academic blogs or podcasts on Indian politics
Career Connection
This practice is vital for success in civil services exams, journalism, policy advisory roles, and maintaining an informed perspective for any public-facing career in India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and In-depth Reading- (Semester 3-4)
Choose electives strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Public Policy, Peace & Conflict, Global Political Economy). Dive deeper into these chosen areas through additional readings and seminar papers.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals and books related to chosen field, Workshops or webinars focused on specific elective areas
Career Connection
Developing expertise in a specific sub-field can distinguish you in the job market, making you a preferred candidate for specialized roles in think tanks, NGOs, or government departments.
Seek Internship and Practical Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for internships with Indian government departments, political consulting firms, NGOs, think tanks (e.g., ORF, IDSA), media houses, or even electoral campaign teams. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, Direct applications to relevant organizations
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths, significantly boosting employability and placement chances in India.
Develop Public Speaking and Debate Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Participate actively in classroom discussions, seminars, and departmental debates. Join university clubs focused on public speaking, Model UN, or current affairs to hone your communication and argumentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Practice presenting ideas clearly and concisely, Join university debate societies, Record yourself for self-critique
Career Connection
Strong communication and debating skills are critical for civil services, media, advocacy, teaching, and leadership roles, enabling effective articulation of policies and ideas.
Advanced Stage
Master Thesis/Dissertation or Project Work- (Semester 4)
Treat the final project/dissertation as a capstone experience. Choose a relevant and impactful research topic, conduct rigorous research, and produce a high-quality academic work.
Tools & Resources
Work closely with your faculty advisor, Utilize advanced statistical software or qualitative analysis tools, Engage in peer review of your work
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent work, which is highly valued in research institutions, academia, and policy-making bodies.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-4)
Attend departmental seminars, guest lectures, and alumni events. Connect with faculty members, guest speakers, and former students who are working in your areas of interest.
Tools & Resources
Use LinkedIn to connect professionally, Maintain contact with mentors and peers, Attend national or regional political science conferences
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations, providing crucial insights into the Indian job market and professional growth trajectories.
Prepare for Civil Services or Higher Education- (Semester 3-4)
If aspiring for civil services, begin systematic preparation, focusing on General Studies, current affairs, and optional subjects (Political Science and International Relations is a popular choice). If aiming for PhD, start preparing research proposals and university applications.
Tools & Resources
Join reputable coaching institutes for UPSC/state PSC exams, Access online mock tests and study materials, Consult faculty for guidance on PhD applications
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation aligns your academic learning with specific career goals, maximizing your chances of securing prestigious positions in public administration or advancing in academia.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized university (not explicitly detailed in syllabus PDF but a general university requirement for M.A. programs)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS01CPOL201 | Western Political Thought (Plato to Marx) | Core | 5 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Morality in Politics, Prince, Hobbes: Social Contract, Absolute Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Bentham: Utilitarianism, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Hegel: Dialectics, State as March of God, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle |
| PS01CPOL202 | Indian Political Thought (Ancient to Modern) | Core | 5 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Dharma, Danda, Rajadharma), Kautilya: Statecraft, Saptanga Theory, Medieval Indian Political Thought (Abul Fazal, Barani), Ram Mohan Roy: Social Reform, Modernity, Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Nehru: Nationalism, Socialism, Secularism, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Constitution, Savarkar: Hindutva, Nationalism |
| PS01CPOL203 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 5 | Introduction to Public Administration: Nature, Scope, Evolution, Theories of Administration: Classical, Human Relations, Scientific Management, Bureaucracy: Weberian Model, Criticisms, Organisation and Methods: Principles, Structure, Personnel Administration: Recruitment, Training, Motivation, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Accountability and Control in Administration |
| PS01CPOL204 | International Relations: Theory and Concepts | Core | 5 | Approaches to International Relations: Idealism, Realism, Liberalism, Key Concepts: Power, National Interest, Security, Diplomacy and Foreign Policy: Tools, Determinants, International Law: Sources, Principles, International Organizations: Role, Structure, Globalisation and its Impact |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS02CPOL205 | Advanced Political Theory | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Political Science: Approaches, Theories of State: Liberal, Marxist, Feminist, Post-modern, Sovereignty: Monistic, Pluralistic, Liberty: Negative, Positive, Equality: Dimensions, Justice, Rights: Types, Theories, Democracy: Theories, Challenges, Power: Authority, Legitimacy |
| PS02CPOL206 | Comparative Politics | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics: Approaches, Political Culture: Concepts, Types, Political Socialization: Agents, Political Development: Theories, Regimes: Democratic, Authoritarian, Electoral Systems: Types, Impact, Federalism: Features, Trends |
| PS02CPOL207 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 5 | Constitutional Development and Philosophy: Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Council of Ministers, Parliament: Structure, Functions, Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, Judicial Review, Federalism: Centre-State Relations, State Politics: Regional Parties, Electoral Reforms: Issues, Challenges |
| PS02CPOL208 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 5 | Meaning and Significance of Research: Types, Research Design: Components, Types, Data Collection: Primary, Secondary, Tools (Questionnaire, Interview), Sampling: Types, Techniques, Data Analysis: Qualitative, Quantitative, Report Writing: Structure, Referencing, Ethics in Research: Plagiarism, Objectivity |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS03CPOL209 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 5 | Nature and Sources of International Law: Theories, State: Recognition, Jurisdiction, Intervention, United Nations: Organs, Functions, Reform, Regional Organizations: EU, ASEAN, SAARC, International Criminal Court, Role of Non-State Actors |
| PS03CPOL210 | Human Rights, Justice and Minorities | Core | 5 | Concept of Human Rights: Evolution, Generations, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants, Human Rights in India: National Human Rights Commission, Justice: Distributive, Procedural, Social, Minority Rights: Constitutional Safeguards, Gender Justice: Feminist Perspectives |
| PS03CPOL211 (A) | Public Policy Analysis | Elective (Group 1: Public Policy and Governance) | 5 | Meaning and Nature of Public Policy: Models, Policy Cycle: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Models of Policy Analysis: Rational, Incremental, Group, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Policy, Challenges in Policy Implementation, Public Policy in India: Case Studies |
| PS03CPOL211 (B) | Conflict Resolution and Peace Building | Elective (Group 2: Peace and Conflict Studies) | 5 | Nature and Causes of Conflict: Types, Conflict Resolution: Approaches, Techniques, Mediation and Negotiation: Role, Strategies, Peacebuilding: Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Role of International Actors in Peace Processes, Case Studies of Conflict Resolution |
| PS03CPOL211 (C) | Global Political Economy: Theory and Practice | Elective (Group 3: Global Political Economy) | 5 | Theories of Global Political Economy: Mercantilism, Liberalism, Marxism, International Trade: Patterns, Regimes, Global Finance: Institutions, Crises, Development and Underdevelopment: Theories, Globalization: Debates, Impact, Role of IMF, World Bank, WTO |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS04CPOL212 | Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 5 | Terrorism: Causes, Impact, Global Responses, Environmental Politics: Climate Change, Sustainable Development, Identity Politics: Caste, Religion, Gender, Good Governance: Transparency, Accountability, Participation, Decentralization and Local Governance, Regionalism and Nationalism: Challenges, Challenges to Democracy: Populism, Authoritarianism |
| PS04CPOL213 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 5 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy: Historical, Geopolitical, Non-Alignment Movement: Relevance Today, Relations with Major Powers: USA, Russia, China, Relations with Neighbors: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Look East/Act East Policy, India in Multilateral Fora: UN, G20, BRICS |
| PS04CPOL214 (A) | Governance and Development | Elective (Group 1: Public Policy and Governance) | 5 | Concept of Governance: Good Governance, E-Governance, Development Theories: Modernization, Dependency, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Civil Society and State, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, Development Challenges in India |
| PS04CPOL214 (B) | Geopolitics of South Asia | Elective (Group 2: Peace and Conflict Studies) | 5 | Geopolitical Significance of South Asia, Regional Security Dynamics: India, Pakistan, China, Cross-Border Issues: Terrorism, Migration, Water Disputes: Rivers, Resources, Role of External Powers in South Asia, SAARC and Regional Cooperation |
| PS04CPOL214 (C) | Regional Integration and International Organizations | Elective (Group 3: Global Political Economy) | 5 | Theories of Regional Integration: Neo-functionalism, Intergovernmentalism, European Union: Evolution, Institutions, Challenges, ASEAN: Objectives, Achievements, NAFTA/USMCA, African Union, Role of WTO in Trade Integration, IMF and World Bank in Regional Economies |
| PS04CPOL215 | Project Work / Dissertation / Internship | Project | 5 | Formulation of Research Problem and Objectives, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
