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B-A-HONS-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in Political Science at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College Delhi?
This Political Science program at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College offers a deep dive into political systems, theories, and processes, equipping students with critical analytical skills. The curriculum is designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of governance, public policy, international relations, and India’s unique political landscape. With increasing global interconnectedness, understanding political dynamics is crucial for various sectors, including civil services, journalism, and non-profit organizations in India, highlighting the program''''s vital relevance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for intellectually curious students passionate about socio-political issues, current affairs, and critical thinking. It suits fresh graduates aspiring for careers in public administration, law, social work, journalism, or academia. Individuals interested in competitive exams like UPSC, State Civil Services, or pursuing higher studies in political science, international relations, or public policy will find this comprehensive course highly beneficial for their professional and academic growth.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in India, including civil services, political consulting, policy analysis, journalism, diplomatic services, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in government or corporate sectors based on experience and roles. The program also lays a strong academic foundation for advanced degrees like MA, M.Phil, and PhD in political science or related fields, enabling further specialization and research opportunities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Reading and Research Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Consistently read assigned texts, academic journals, and reputable news sources to grasp foundational political concepts and theories. Utilize the college library and online academic databases, like those provided by Delhi University, for supplementary material. Focus on understanding diverse political perspectives and historical contexts.
Tools & Resources
College library, Delhi University''''s e-resources, Reputable Indian news portals (The Hindu, Indian Express), Academic platforms like JSTOR and Academia.edu
Career Connection
Essential for analytical thinking, critical evaluation, and informed decision-making, crucial for civil services, policy analysis, and journalism careers in India.
Engage in Deliberative Discussions and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, join college debate societies or political science clubs. Practice articulating arguments clearly, listening to opposing viewpoints, and constructing logical rebuttals based on theoretical knowledge and current events. Seek opportunities for inter-college competitions.
Tools & Resources
College debate society, Political Science Department''''s forums, Inter-college debate competitions, Mock parliament sessions
Career Connection
Enhances communication, public speaking, and critical reasoning skills vital for advocacy, law, civil services interviews, and leadership roles within India''''s public and private sectors.
Master Essay Writing and Academic Referencing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structuring coherent essays, developing strong arguments supported by evidence, and adhering to proper academic referencing styles. Seek constructive feedback from professors and peers on clarity, argument strength, and the effective integration of research to improve academic writing.
Tools & Resources
DU Writing Centre, Grammar and plagiarism checkers (e.g., Grammarly, Turnitin), Style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), Peer review groups
Career Connection
Strong written communication is fundamental for all professional fields, including research, policy drafting, journalism, and effective corporate communication in the Indian context.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Issue-Based Internships or Volunteering- (Semester 3-5 (during breaks or part-time))
Seek internships with NGOs, think tanks, political consulting firms, or local government bodies to gain practical exposure to policy implementation, social movements, or political campaigns. Volunteer for social causes or community development projects to understand ground realities in India.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn, College placement cell, Contact NGOs like PRS Legislative Research, Centre for Civil Society, Local government offices
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, builds professional networks, and helps clarify career interests, leading to better placement opportunities in India''''s development or advocacy sectors.
Develop Data Analysis and Research Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Take skill enhancement courses focusing on quantitative or qualitative research methods. Learn basic data analysis tools to interpret political trends, electoral data, or public opinion polls, which are crucial for evidence-based policy making and research in India.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (Coursera, NPTEL) on research methods, Workshops by PRS India, Election Commission of India data, Basic statistical software (e.g., Excel, R)
Career Connection
Crucial for policy analysis, survey research, data journalism, and academic research roles, making graduates highly valuable in evidence-based decision-making within Indian organizations.
Participate in Policy Competitions and Model UN- (Semester 4-5)
Join policy hackathons, case study competitions, or Model United Nations events to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Develop negotiation, diplomacy, and problem-solving skills while collaborating with peers from diverse academic backgrounds. Focus on Indian and global issues.
Tools & Resources
Model UN societies, College academic clubs, NITI Aayog policy contests, Student think tanks
Career Connection
Enhances strategic thinking, teamwork, and leadership skills, highly valued in international relations, public policy, and corporate strategy roles within India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6 onwards)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services or State Public Service Commission exams, integrating syllabus topics with current affairs. Join reputable coaching classes, form dedicated study groups, and practice mock tests regularly to assess progress and refine strategies.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes (e.g., Vajiram & Ravi, Vision IAS), Online test series platforms, Previous year question papers, Government publications (Economic Survey, India Year Book)
Career Connection
Directly targets a career in prestigious Indian administrative services, offering high impact, leadership opportunities, and a significant role in nation-building.
Undertake a Major Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to conduct an in-depth research project or dissertation on a specialized area of political science. This involves extensive literature review, robust data collection, rigorous analysis, and writing a comprehensive report that contributes to the field.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, DU research guidelines, Online academic databases, Statistical software (if applicable), Plagiarism detection tools
Career Connection
Develops advanced research and analytical skills, essential for academic careers, think tanks, policy research, and pursuing doctoral studies in India or abroad.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Actively connect with college alumni working in diverse fields of political science and public service using platforms like LinkedIn. Attend career fairs, departmental seminars, and utilize professional events to build strong relationships. Seek mentorship and guidance for informed career planning and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College alumni network, LinkedIn, Career counseling cell, Industry-specific events and conferences in Delhi and other cities
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, provides crucial insights into industry trends, and facilitates career transitions, offering a significant competitive edge in the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 from a recognized board, subject to CUET (UG) 2024 score and specific subject combination requirements set by the University of Delhi.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: Minimum 148 credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | What is Politics and Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, Power and State, Justice and Rights, Equality and Freedom, Citizenship and Democracy |
| DSC 2 | Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Basic Features of the Constitution, Organs of Government: Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism and Decentralization, Democracy and Political Participation, Rights and Duties |
| AECC 1 | Environmental Science / English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Choice-based subject, Environmental Studies concepts, Basic English grammar and usage, Reading comprehension, Written and oral communication skills |
| GE 1 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 4 | Choice-based subject from other disciplines, Example: Indian Economy, Psychology, History, Enhances interdisciplinary knowledge, Broadens academic perspective |
| VAC 1 | Value Addition Course - I | Value Addition Course | 2 | Choice-based subject, Example: Digital Empowerment, Financial Literacy, Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties, Ethics and Culture |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 3 | Political Theory-Concepts and Debates | Core | 4 | Freedom: Negative and Positive, Equality: Formal and Substantive, Rights: Natural, Human, Group, Citizenship: Classical, Liberal, Multicultural, Democracy: Direct, Representative, Deliberative, Gender, Race, Caste and Politics |
| DSC 4 | Political Processes and Institutions in Comparative Perspective | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, State Formation and Types of States, Regimes: Democratic and Authoritarian, Electoral Systems and Parties, Federalism and Decentralization, Nationalism and Globalization |
| AECC 2 | Environmental Science / English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Choice-based subject, Environmental Studies concepts, Basic English grammar and usage, Reading comprehension, Written and oral communication skills |
| GE 2 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 4 | Choice-based subject from other disciplines, Example: Principles of Microeconomics, Sociology, Mathematics, Enhances interdisciplinary knowledge, Broadens academic perspective |
| VAC 2 | Value Addition Course - II | Value Addition Course | 2 | Choice-based subject, Example: Swachh Bharat, Yoga: Philosophy and Practice, Emotional Intelligence, Communication in Everyday Life |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 5 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Understanding Comparative Politics, Themes for Comparative Analysis, Comparative Study of Constitutions, Electoral Systems and Party Systems, Federalism and Unitary Systems, Political Economy |
| DSC 6 | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core | 4 | Introduction to Public Administration, Classical Approaches to Public Administration, Human Relations and Behavioral Approaches, New Public Administration and Management, Governance and Good Governance, Policy Making and Implementation |
| DSC 7 | Perspectives on International Relations and World History | Core | 4 | Understanding International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Key Concepts: State, Power, Security, Global Governance and Institutions, Colonialism, Imperialism, Cold War, Globalization and Contemporary Challenges |
| SEC 1 | Skill Enhancement Course - I | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Choice-based subject, Example: Conflict and Peace Building, Art of Negotiation, Research Methodology, Legislative Practices |
| GE 3 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 4 | Choice-based subject from other disciplines, Example: Basic Computer Science, Philosophy, Commerce, Enhances interdisciplinary knowledge, Broadens academic perspective |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 8 | Political Processes and Institutions in India | Core | 4 | Parties and Party Systems in India, Elections and Electoral Reforms, Social Movements: Caste, Gender, Environment, Religion and Politics, Caste, Class, and Tribe in Indian Politics, Regionalism and National Integration |
| DSC 9 | Public Policy and Administration in India | Core | 4 | Conceptualizing Public Policy, Policy Formulation and Implementation, Challenges of Policy Making in India, Social Welfare Policies, Public Grievance Redressal, Decentralized Administration |
| DSC 10 | Global Politics | Core | 4 | Globalization: Debates and Dimensions, Global Economic and Political Order, International Organizations: UN, WTO, EU, Contemporary Global Issues: Terrorism, Environment, Non-State Actors in Global Politics, India''''s Foreign Policy |
| SEC 2 | Skill Enhancement Course - II | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Choice-based subject, Example: Data Analysis, Entrepreneurship, Gender and Society, Understanding Human Rights |
| GE 4 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 4 | Choice-based subject from other disciplines, Example: English Literature, Environmental Issues, Statistics, Enhances interdisciplinary knowledge, Broadens academic perspective |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 11 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Justice, Machiavelli: Virtu, Fortuna, Statecraft, Hobbes: Social Contract, Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Property, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| DSC 12 | Indian Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Kautilya: Arthashastra, Aurobindo: Nationalism, Tagore: Nationalism, Education, Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Ambedkar: Annihilation of Caste, Constitutionalism |
| DSE 1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I | Elective | 4 | Choice-based elective, Example: Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective, India’s Foreign Policy, Public Opinion and Survey Research, Understanding Conflict and Peace |
| DSE 2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II | Elective | 4 | Choice-based elective, Example: Modern Indian Political Thought, Development Process and Social Movements in India, Feminism: Theory and Practice, Comparative Political Economy |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 13 | Modern Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | John Stuart Mill: Liberty, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel: State, Freedom, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Hannah Arendt: Action, Totalitarianism, John Rawls: Justice as Fairness, Robert Nozick: Entitlement Theory of Justice |
| DSC 14 | Indian Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism, Jawaharlal Nehru: Socialism, Non-Alignment, Jayaprakash Narayan: Total Revolution, Ram Manohar Lohia: Socialism, Deendayal Upadhyaya: Integral Humanism, Savarkar: Hindutva |
| DSE 3 | Discipline Specific Elective - III | Elective | 4 | Choice-based elective, Example: Contemporary Political Theory, Environmental Politics, Ethics and Public Policy, Diaspora and International Relations |
| DSE 4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV | Elective | 4 | Choice-based elective, Example: Security Studies, Local Governance in India, Human Rights, Gender and Environment, Urban Governance |
| INT/PROJ/DISS | Internship / Apprenticeship / Project / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Practical application of political science knowledge, Independent research or field experience, Detailed report or dissertation writing, Analysis of specific political issues or policies |
