

M-A in Public Administration at Sharda Mahila Mahavidyalaya


Nagaur, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Public Administration at Sharda Mahila Mahavidyalaya Nagaur?
This M.A. Public Administration program at Sharda Mahila Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with MDS University, focuses on equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of governance, public policy, and administrative practices. It delves into the theoretical foundations and practical applications of public administration within the Indian context, addressing contemporary challenges and reforms essential for effective public service delivery. The program emphasizes a holistic approach to state administration, local governance, and global administrative systems.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into various government services, civil society organizations, or public sector undertakings. It also caters to working professionals from diverse backgrounds looking to upskill in administrative roles, enhance their policy analysis capabilities, or transition into public service. Individuals passionate about societal development, governance, and policy formulation, with a bachelor''''s degree in any discipline, would find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), local self-government bodies, public sector enterprises, and NGOs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in administrative and policy-making roles. The program aligns with the demands of modern Indian administration, preparing students for impactful leadership and policy implementation.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core administrative theories, public policy models, and research methodologies. Engage in regular reading of foundational texts, participate actively in class discussions, and form study groups to clarify complex concepts.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, relevant academic journals, online platforms like NPTEL for supplemental lectures
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is essential for cracking competitive exams (UPSC/State PSCs) and for analytical roles in policy research and administration.
Develop Effective Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice applying research methodologies learned by conducting small-scale surveys, case studies, or literature reviews on local administrative issues. Learn to use basic statistical tools for data organization and preliminary analysis.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, Google Scholar, university''''s digital databases, guidance from faculty
Career Connection
Critical for roles in policy analysis, program evaluation, and academic research within government, think tanks, and NGOs.
Engage with Current Affairs and Governance News- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra), and official government reports to stay updated on administrative reforms, public policies, and socio-economic issues.
Tools & Resources
Daily newspapers, official government websites (PMO, NITI Aayog), news analysis platforms
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams, interview preparation, and for being an informed and effective public administrator.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Project Work and Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Project Work/Dissertation (PA-404) by selecting a relevant administrative issue, conducting thorough research, analyzing data, and presenting actionable recommendations. This fosters deep specialization and practical problem-solving.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentor, academic databases, statistical software (if applicable), institutional library
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, analytical skills, and expertise in a specific area, highly valued by employers and for further academic pursuits.
Network with Practitioners and Alumni- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek out and connect with public administrators, policy makers, and alumni working in relevant fields through workshops, seminars, LinkedIn, and university events. Gain insights into real-world challenges and career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university alumni network, professional associations, departmental events
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship leads, and future employment opportunities within the public and non-profit sectors.
Develop Essential Soft Skills for Public Service- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on enhancing communication, leadership, ethical decision-making, and crisis management skills through role-playing, group projects, public speaking practice, and participation in voluntary activities.
Tools & Resources
Communication workshops, online courses on leadership (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), participation in college clubs
Career Connection
These skills are paramount for effective public service delivery, community engagement, and advancing to leadership positions in administration.
Advanced Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Competitive Exams- (Post-graduation)
If aspiring for civil services, dedicate focused time post-graduation to preparing for UPSC CSE or State PSC examinations. Join coaching institutes, solve previous year papers, and engage in regular answer writing practice to build confidence.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks for competitive exams, online test series, coaching centers, current affairs resources
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government positions, offering significant career progression and public impact in India.
Pursue Specialized Certifications or Further Studies- (Post-graduation)
Consider short-term certifications in areas like project management, data analytics for governance, or public policy analysis to enhance specific skill sets. Alternatively, explore M.Phil./Ph.D. options for an academic or research career.
Tools & Resources
Online certification platforms (Coursera, edX), university M.Phil./Ph.D. programs, professional development courses
Career Connection
Provides a competitive edge in specialized roles, opens up academic opportunities, and facilitates continuous professional growth in the field.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Brand- (During and Post-graduation)
Compile all project reports, research papers, internship certificates, and achievements into a compelling professional portfolio. Maintain an updated LinkedIn profile, showcasing expertise and networking effectively to attract career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, personal website/blog, professional networking events, career advisors
Career Connection
Essential for job applications, interviews, and establishing credibility as a public administration professional in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com./B.Tech. or equivalent) from a recognized university. Specific prerequisites for Public Administration background may be preferred by the college.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-101 | Administrative Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Approaches to Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Administrative Behaviour, Leadership and Motivation |
| PA-102 | Public Policy & Analysis | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Policy, Models of Public Policy, Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation, Policy Evaluation |
| PA-103 | Comparative Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of CPA, Approaches to CPA, Bureaucracy in Developed and Developing Countries, Administrative Systems of UK, USA |
| PA-104 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-201 | Development Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of Development Administration, Approaches to Development Administration, Planning Process in India, Rural Development Programs, Urban Development |
| PA-202 | Financial Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of Financial Administration, Budgeting Process, Parliamentary Control over Finance, Financial Committees, Audit and Accounts |
| PA-203 | Local Government Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Self Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Rural Local Bodies (Panchayati Raj), Urban Local Bodies, Local Body Finances |
| PA-204 | Public Personnel Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of Personnel Administration, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal, Employer-Employee Relations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-301 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Constitutional Framework, Central Administration (President, PM, Cabinet), State Administration (Governor, CM, Secretariat), District Administration |
| PA-302 | Social Welfare Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of Social Welfare, Social Welfare Policies, Administration of Social Welfare Programs, Role of NGOs, Challenges in Social Welfare |
| PA-303 | Disaster Management | Core | 4 | Concept and Types of Disasters, Disaster Management Cycle, Legal and Institutional Framework, Role of Government and NGOs, Community Participation |
| PA-304 | International Administration | Core | 4 | Genesis and Growth of International Administration, United Nations System, Role of International Organizations, Global Governance, Challenges to International Administration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-401 | E-Governance | Core | 4 | Concept and Scope of E-Governance, Models of E-Governance, E-Governance Initiatives in India, Challenges of E-Governance, Digital India Program |
| PA-402 | Human Rights and Administration | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in Indian Constitution, National Human Rights Commission, Role of Administration in Protecting Human Rights |
| PA-403 | Urban Governance | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Urban Governance, Urbanization Trends in India, Urban Planning, Urban Development Programs, Smart City Mission |
| PA-404 | Project Work/Dissertation (Viva Voce) | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Report Writing |




