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MA-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in Political Science at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Government Degree College, Ashta
Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Government Degree College, Ashta Sehore?
This MA Political Science program at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Government Degree College, Sehore, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and global affairs. Rooted in an Indian context, it delves into governance, public administration, and international relations. The program aims to cultivate analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing students for roles in public service, academia, and policy analysis within India''''s evolving political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, humanities, or law, seeking to build expertise in political science. It also caters to working professionals in government, NGOs, or media who aim to deepen their understanding of political processes or transition into policy-making roles. Candidates with a strong inclination towards research and societal impact, coupled with a desire to contribute to India''''s democratic framework, will find this program highly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as civil servants (UPSC, MPSC), political analysts, researchers, journalists, and public policy consultants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in government and top research organizations. The program aligns well with competitive exams, fostering a strong foundation for a career in public administration and social development across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Knowledge with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories, concepts of public administration, and international relations. Supplement textbook knowledge by regularly reading national newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable online news sources to connect theoretical concepts with contemporary Indian political events and global developments.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu e-paper, Indian Express Explained, PRS Legislative Research (for policy analysis), NCERT Political Science books
Career Connection
Strong conceptual clarity and current affairs knowledge are crucial for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, MPSC, and for entry-level research roles.
Develop Strong Analytical and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, seminars, and debates to refine oral communication and critical thinking. Practice essay writing regularly on political topics, focusing on clear argumentation, evidence-based reasoning, and structured presentation. Seek feedback from professors to continuously improve writing proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, University library resources, Peer review groups, Online platforms like Grammarly
Career Connection
Essential for academic research, policy brief writing, journalistic reporting, and success in descriptive papers of government exams.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex theories, share insights on readings, and prepare for internal assessments and university exams. Collaborative learning can clarify doubts, expose different perspectives, and make studying more effective and engaging, especially for broad subjects like political thought.
Tools & Resources
College library discussion rooms, Online collaboration tools, Shared notes, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Enhances understanding, builds communication skills, and fosters a supportive academic environment, indirectly aiding overall academic performance for future opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Short Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3)
Identify opportunities for short-term research projects under faculty guidance or pursue internships with local NGOs, government offices, or political organizations in Sehore or Bhopal. This provides practical exposure to policy implementation, grassroots politics, or administrative functions, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios in India.
Tools & Resources
College career cell (if available), Local administration offices, NGOs focusing on governance or development, University research forums
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, strengthens resume for jobs in development sector, advocacy, or public administration, and provides networking opportunities.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Readings- (Semester 3)
Choose elective papers wisely, aligning them with specific career interests (e.g., human rights, environmental politics, international relations). Dive deeper into these chosen areas through advanced academic journals, books, and policy reports. This specialization can provide a competitive edge in specific job markets.
Tools & Resources
Jstor, Google Scholar, University e-resources, NPTEL courses, Specific journals in chosen sub-fields of Political Science
Career Connection
Develops niche expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in research, policy analysis, or international organizations.
Participate in Policy Debates and Academic Conferences- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in college or inter-college debates, policy discussions, and essay competitions. Seek out and attend academic conferences or workshops, even virtual ones, to present papers or simply engage with broader scholarly discourse in political science.
Tools & Resources
Debate clubs, College academic societies, Notice boards for conference announcements, Online conference platforms
Career Connection
Hones public speaking and research presentation skills, expands academic network, and keeps students updated on current research trends, vital for higher studies or policy roles.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project and Research Skills- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the MA dissertation or project, if applicable. This involves formulating a research question, conducting thorough literature review, data collection (if empirical), analysis, and writing a comprehensive report. This is a capstone experience to demonstrate independent research capability.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology books, Statistical software (if needed), Academic mentors, University library for resources
Career Connection
Essential for careers in research, academia, think tanks, and demonstrates a high level of analytical and problem-solving skills to potential employers.
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4)
Begin intensive preparation for target competitive examinations such as UPSC Civil Services (with Political Science optional), State Public Service Commissions (MPSC), NET/JRF, or other government recruitment exams. This involves focused study, mock tests, and answer writing practice.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (optional), Online test series, Previous year question papers, Government exam preparation books, Dedicated study materials
Career Connection
Directly prepares for entry into prestigious government services and academic careers, which are primary career paths for MA Political Science graduates in India.
Build Professional Network and Seek Career Guidance- (Semester 4)
Connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in the political science domain through LinkedIn, college events, or informational interviews. Attend career counseling sessions to understand various career avenues, resume building, and interview techniques relevant to the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni portals, College career guidance cells, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association)
Career Connection
Facilitates job search, opens doors to internship and employment opportunities, and provides valuable mentorship and insights into career progression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in any discipline from a recognized University, preferably with Political Science as one of the subjects (as per Barkatullah University guidelines for MA admissions).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 (16 papers x 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS-101 | Western Political Thought (Classical and Modern) | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Classification of States, Machiavelli''''s Theory of Statecraft, Hobbes'''' Social Contract Theory, Locke''''s Natural Rights, Rousseau''''s General Will |
| MAPS-102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Manu''''s Conception of Dharma, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Gandhi''''s Satyagraha and Swaraj, Nehru''''s Democratic Socialism, Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, M.N. Roy''''s Radical Humanism |
| MAPS-103 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy and its Role, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Accountability and Control |
| MAPS-104 | International Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Cold War and its Impact, Non-Alignment Movement, Globalisation and its Challenges, United Nations Organization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS-201 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Study, Political Systems and their Classifications, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Pressure Groups |
| MAPS-202 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development in India, Federalism and Centre-State Relations, Parliamentary System and its Functioning, Judiciary and Judicial Review, Election Commission and Electoral Reforms, Political Parties and Coalition Politics |
| MAPS-203 | Human Rights | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in Indian Constitution, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs in Human Rights Protection, Challenges to Human Rights in India |
| MAPS-204 | Political Sociology | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Elite and Leadership, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, State and Society Relationship, Social Movements and Political Change, Political Participation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS-301 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Social Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Report Writing |
| MAPS-302 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, India and its Neighbors, India and Major Global Powers, SAARC and Regional Cooperation, India''''s Role in BRICS, Economic Diplomacy |
| MAPS-303 | Local Self Government in India (Rural & Urban) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Panchayati Raj System, 73rd Constitutional Amendment, Urban Local Bodies, 74th Constitutional Amendment, Decentralization and Grassroots Democracy, Challenges to Local Governance |
| MAPS-304 | Political Economy | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | State and Market Debate, Theories of Economic Development, Impact of Globalisation on India, Neoliberalism and its Critiques, Inequality and Poverty, Role of International Financial Institutions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS-401 | Theories of Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Growth vs. Development, Modernization Theories, Dependency and Underdevelopment Theories, Sustainable Development Goals, Human Development Index, Challenges to Development in Global South |
| MAPS-402 | International Law & Organizations | Core | 4 | Sources of International Law, Recognition of States, United Nations System, International Court of Justice, Regional International Organizations, International Humanitarian Law |
| MAPS-403 | Gender and Politics | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Patriarchy and Gender Roles, Waves of Feminism, Women in Indian Political System, Gender Justice and Empowerment, Reservation for Women in Politics, Gender-based Violence |
| MAPS-404 | Environmental Politics | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Environmental Movements in India, Concept of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Global Governance, Green Politics and Eco-Feminism, Environmental Policies in India, International Environmental Regimes |
| MAPS-405 | Project/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis/Project Writing, Viva Voce |
