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BA-PROGRAMME in History Political Science at Shyam Lal College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is History + Political Science at Shyam Lal College Delhi?
This History + Political Science program at Shyam Lal College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, offers a robust interdisciplinary foundation, focusing on the evolution of human societies and political systems, particularly with an Indian industry context. The program differentiates itself by integrating critical historical analysis with contemporary political thought, preparing students for diverse roles in governance, journalism, and research. Given India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape and rich historical heritage, there is a consistent demand for graduates who possess nuanced understanding of these interconnected domains.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, policy analysis, media, or education, providing them with essential analytical and communication skills. It also caters to individuals with a keen interest in understanding India''''s past and present, offering a pathway for those aspiring to contribute to public discourse or pursue higher education in social sciences. No specific prerequisite background beyond a 10+2 qualification is mandated, but a strong aptitude for reading, research, and critical thinking is highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths such as civil servants (IAS, IPS, IFS), researchers, policy analysts, journalists, content creators, educators, and social sector workers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8-15 LPA in various governmental or non-governmental organizations. Growth trajectories are strong in fields requiring strong analytical skills, ethical reasoning, and understanding of complex societal issues, especially within public administration and developmental organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading & Research Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed readings beyond class discussions. Develop effective note-taking strategies and learn to identify credible academic sources. Utilize the college library''''s resources and online academic databases.
Tools & Resources
College Library, JSTOR, Shodhganga, Google Scholar, Zotero
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams (UPSC, state PCS) requiring extensive general knowledge and analytical comprehension, and for research-oriented roles.
Master Essay Writing and Argumentation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, coherent, and well-structured essays. Practice forming strong arguments, supporting them with evidence, and critically evaluating different perspectives. Seek feedback from professors and participate in writing workshops.
Tools & Resources
University Writing Center, Grammarly, peer review sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for civil services mains exams, policy drafting, journalism, and any role requiring persuasive written communication.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Discussions & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Participate actively in classroom discussions, seminars, and college debate societies. Discuss the historical context of political issues and the political implications of historical events. This fosters critical thinking and a holistic understanding.
Tools & Resources
College Literary & Debating Society, current affairs discussions groups
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, logical reasoning, and ability to articulate complex ideas, valuable for media, advocacy, and civil service interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Short-Term Internships/Volunteering- (Summer breaks after Sem 2 and Sem 4)
Seek out opportunities with NGOs working in social justice, policy advocacy, local government bodies, or media organizations. This provides practical exposure to the application of History and Political Science concepts in real-world Indian settings.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn, college placement cell, local NGOs/MLAs'''' offices
Career Connection
Builds practical experience, professional network, and clarifies career interests, crucial for resume building and gaining a competitive edge.
Develop Research Project/Paper Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Initiate independent research projects, perhaps as part of course assignments or extra-curricular activities. Learn to formulate research questions, collect and analyze data (qualitative), and present findings in academic papers.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology workshops, faculty guidance, online research databases
Career Connection
Prepares for postgraduate studies, research assistant roles, and contributes to a strong academic portfolio for higher education or think tank roles.
Participate in Quizzes & Academic Competitions- (Semester 3-4)
Join inter-college quizzes, essay competitions, and policy simulation challenges related to history, politics, and current affairs. This sharpens general knowledge, analytical skills, and competitive spirit.
Tools & Resources
College academic clubs, university-level competitions, online current affairs platforms
Career Connection
Boosts confidence, expands knowledge base, and develops quick thinking, beneficial for competitive exams and interviews.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services/Competitive Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services or state PSC exams. This includes extensive reading of current affairs, in-depth study of core subjects, mock tests, and answer writing practice. Consider joining a study group.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes, online test series, dedicated study groups, previous year papers
Career Connection
Directly targets high-demand government jobs, which are a primary career aspiration for many humanities graduates in India.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Actively connect with college alumni working in diverse fields like civil services, media, academia, and NGOs. Attend career fairs, webinars, and informational interviews to gain insights and potential mentorship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, college alumni network platforms, career guidance cell
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities, providing invaluable real-world advice and connections.
Specialized Skill Development & Portfolio Building- (Semester 5-6)
Identify specific skills aligned with career goals, such as data analysis (for policy research), content writing, digital marketing (for media/NGOs), or foreign language proficiency. Build a portfolio of relevant work, e.g., published articles, research papers, project reports.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (Coursera, NPTEL), workshops, personal projects, blogging platforms
Career Connection
Enhances employability for specific roles, demonstrates practical application of knowledge, and stands out in a competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Class 12th or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1 H | History of India from Earliest Times up to c. 300 CE | Core | 4 | Reconstructing Ancient Indian History: Sources and Approaches, Harappan Civilization, Vedic and Post-Vedic Societies, Jainism and Buddhism, Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire, Post-Mauryan Developments |
| DSC-1 PS | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | What is Political Theory? Approaches, Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy, Major Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Conservatism, Indian Political Thought (select few thinkers), Critiques of Modernity |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory | 4 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Legislation |
| VAC-1 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Addition | 2 | Preamble of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Constitutional Amendments, Significance of Constitutional Values |
| LCC-1 | English Fluency | Language Core Course | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary Building, Spoken English Practice, Listening Comprehension, Presentation Skills |
| SEC-1 | Digital Empowerment | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Basics of Computer Systems, Internet and Web Technologies, Digital Literacy and Cyber Security, E-governance and Digital Services, Introduction to Digital Tools |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-2 H | History of India c. 300 to 1200 CE | Core | 4 | Gupta and Post-Gupta Eras, Early Medieval Polities: North and South India, Feudalism Debates, Economy and Society (Agrarian Structure, Trade), Religious and Cultural Developments |
| DSC-2 PS | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constituent Assembly and the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union and State Governments: Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism, Local Self-Government, Party System, Elections, Caste, Class, Gender in Indian Politics |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory | 4 | Theory of Communication, Speaking Skills, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary |
| VAC-2 | Yoga: Philosophy and Practice | Value Addition | 2 | Introduction to Yoga, History, Asanas, Pranayama, Meditation Techniques, Benefits of Yoga, Yoga for Daily Life |
| LCC-2 | Hindi B | Language Core Course | 4 | Basic Hindi Grammar, Reading Comprehension (Prose & Poetry), Writing Skills (Letter, Essay), Vocabulary Enrichment, Functional Hindi |
| SEC-2 | Financial Literacy | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Personal Finance Management, Banking and Investment Basics, Insurance and Retirement Planning, Credit and Debt Management, Financial Planning for Life Goals |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-3 H | History of India c. 1200 to 1700 CE | Core | 4 | Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Rise, Administration, Economy, Religious Movements: Bhakti and Sufi Traditions, Society and Culture under Sultanate and Mughals, State and Peasantry |
| DSC-3 PS | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Understanding Comparative Politics: Methods, Approaches, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Regimes: Democratic and Authoritarian, Electoral Systems, Party Systems, Globalization and Comparative Politics |
| GE-1 | Principles of Microeconomics | Generic Elective | 4 | Demand and Supply, Elasticity, Consumer Behavior, Producer Behavior, Market Structures, Factor Markets, Welfare Economics |
| VAC-3 | Swachh Bharat | Value Addition | 2 | Concept of Cleanliness and Hygiene, Waste Management, Sanitation and Public Health, Role of Community in Swachh Bharat, Government Initiatives for Cleanliness |
| SEC-3 | Art and Culture: Appreciating India''''s Heritage | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Indian Visual Arts (Architecture, Sculpture, Painting), Performing Arts (Music, Dance, Theatre), Literary Traditions, Folk Arts and Crafts, Cultural Institutions and Heritage Preservation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-4 H | History of India c. 1700 to 1950 CE | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional Powers, Colonial Rule: British Expansion and Administration, Economic Impact of Colonialism, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Nationalist Movement and Partition |
| DSC-4 PS | International Relations | Core | 4 | Understanding International Relations: Theories (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Economic and Political Order, Global Issues: Terrorism, Environment, Human Rights, India''''s Foreign Policy |
| GE-2 | Indian Economy I | Generic Elective | 4 | Basic Characteristics of Indian Economy, Sectoral Growth: Agriculture, Industry, Services, Poverty, Inequality, Employment, Planning in India, New Economic Reforms |
| VAC-4 | Ethics and Culture | Value Addition | 2 | Introduction to Ethics, Moral Philosophy, Indian Ethical Traditions, Cultural Diversity and Pluralism, Values in Society, Role of Culture in Personal and Social Life |
| SEC-4 | Understanding Gandhi | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Gandhi''''s Early Life and Influences, Satyagraha: Philosophy and Practice, Non-Violence and Peace, Swadeshi and Sarvodaya, Gandhi''''s Legacy |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-1 H | History of Modern Europe c. 1780-1939 | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | The French Revolution and its aftermath, Industrial Revolution, Rise of Nation-States, Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and its consequences |
| DSE-1 PS | Human Rights, Gender and Environment | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept of Human Rights: Theories, Generations, Gender: Patriarchy, Feminism, Gender and Development, Environment: Politics of Resource Scarcity, Environmental Movements, Rights of Indigenous People, Global Governance and Human Rights |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-2 H | History of Environmentalism | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Early Environmental Concerns, Rise of Modern Environmentalism, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development, Global Environmental Governance |
| DSE-2 PS | Public Policy and Administration in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to Public Policy, Policy Making Process in India, Public Administration: Classical and Modern Approaches, Bureaucracy and Development, E-governance |
