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MA-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in Political Science at Siddh Narayan Ram Harsh Degree College
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Siddh Narayan Ram Harsh Degree College Prayagraj?
This MA Political Science program at Siddh Narayan Ram Harsh Degree College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and practices, with a strong emphasis on Indian and global contexts. The curriculum, aligned with the National Education Policy, is designed to equip students with analytical skills and critical perspectives essential for engaging with contemporary political challenges in India and worldwide.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences seeking entry into government services, policy analysis, journalism, or academia. It also caters to working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of political dynamics, and career changers transitioning into public service or research roles requiring a deeper grasp of Indian polity.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC, UPPSC), political consulting, public relations, and teaching at various levels. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience in policy research or government advisory roles within Indian organizations and think tanks.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate focused time to thoroughly understand foundational political theories, Indian political thought, and public administration principles from Semesters 1 and 2. Utilize prescribed textbooks, reference materials, and actively engage in class discussions to build a strong theoretical base. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex ideas and clarify doubts effectively.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks by O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood, and Indian authors, NCERT Political Science books (Class XI-XII) for basic revision, Online platforms like e-PG Pathshala for academic modules
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation is critical for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, where conceptual clarity in Political Science is highly tested, and serves as a bedrock for advanced academic research.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and basic research skills, particularly through assignments in ''''Research Methodology''''. Practice structuring arguments logically, citing sources correctly using recognized styles, and presenting information clearly and concisely. Actively seek constructive feedback from professors on all assignments to continuously refine your writing style and analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
University library resources for journal articles and reference books, Online citation guides and management tools, Academic writing handbooks and style guides
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are indispensable for any role in policy analysis, think tanks, journalism, and academic pursuits, enabling effective and persuasive communication of complex political ideas.
Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Politics- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, make it a daily habit to read leading Indian newspapers, reputable news magazines, and watch credible news channels to stay updated on national and international political developments. Critically connect theoretical concepts learned in class to real-world events, policy debates, and governance challenges prevalent in India.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, LiveMint (reputable newspapers), PRS Legislative Research for policy briefs, Sansad TV debates and analyses
Career Connection
This practice is vital for success in competitive exams (especially General Studies and Political Science optional papers), enhances interview performance, and fosters informed participation in political discourse, making you a more knowledgeable and employable citizen.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects or Internships- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks))
Actively seek opportunities for short-term research projects with faculty members or apply for internships at local NGOs, government departments (like District Administration offices), or political consultancies in Prayagraj or nearby major cities during semester breaks. These practical experiences provide invaluable exposure to policy implementation, grassroots politics, and administrative functioning in India.
Tools & Resources
University career services or department notices for available opportunities, LinkedIn for professional networking and internship listings, Websites of local NGOs and government bodies
Career Connection
Practical experience significantly enhances your resume for placements, especially in the development sector, political campaigns, and public administration, offering direct insights into real-world applications of political science theories.
Participate in Debates and Model Parliament Sessions- (Semester 3-4)
Join college debating societies or political science clubs to actively hone your public speaking, argumentation, and critical thinking skills. Participating in Model United Nations (MUN) or Model Parliament sessions can provide hands-on experience in diplomatic negotiations, legislative processes, and understanding parliamentary procedures, highly relevant to India''''s parliamentary democracy.
Tools & Resources
College clubs and societies, departmental associations, Online resources for MUN rules and procedures, debate formats, Public speaking and rhetoric guides
Career Connection
These activities build confidence, leadership qualities, and advanced communication skills, which are highly valued in roles requiring advocacy, public relations, media, and in all stages of civil services selection.
Specialized Reading and Academic Article Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Beyond prescribed texts, delve deeply into specialized academic journals, research papers, and books related to your specific areas of interest, such as comparative politics, human rights in India, or rural development. Practice critically analyzing arguments, identifying underlying biases, and synthesizing complex information from diverse scholarly sources to form your own informed opinions.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE (through institutional access where available), Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), Indian Journal of Public Administration
Career Connection
This practice deepens your expertise, prepares you rigorously for the advanced dissertation in Semester 4, and positions you favorably for research-oriented roles in Indian think tanks or for pursuing higher academic studies.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services or NTA-UGC NET- (Semester 4)
If aiming for civil services, dedicate significant and structured time to preparing for General Studies, current affairs, and the Political Science optional paper. For an academic career, focus on the NTA-UGC NET/JRF examination by solving previous year''''s question papers rigorously and comprehensively revising all MA Political Science syllabus topics.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC Civil Services study materials (e.g., standard reference books, coaching notes), Previous year question papers for UPSC/NET/JRF, Online mock test series and study groups
Career Connection
This practice directly enables entry into prestigious Indian civil services, opens pathways for Assistant Professorships, and qualifies you for PhD research fellowships in Indian universities and colleges.
Execute a High-Quality Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
For MPS 404, meticulously choose a pertinent research topic relevant to contemporary Indian political issues, policy challenges, or global affairs. Work closely with your assigned supervisor, conduct thorough primary and secondary research, and ensure a rigorous methodology. A well-researched and articulately written dissertation demonstrates your ability to contribute original insights to the field.
Tools & Resources
University library databases and digital repositories, Statistical software (if applicable, like basic Excel for quantitative data), Academic writing and research paper construction guides
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases your research aptitude, critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent work skills, which are highly valued by academic institutions, research organizations, and certain analytical roles in government.
Network and Attend Public Lectures/Conferences- (Semester 4)
Actively attend public lectures, seminars, and academic conferences organized by the university, other academic institutions, or think tanks in Prayagraj, Lucknow, or Delhi (if feasible). Network strategically with academics, policymakers, fellow researchers, and alumni. Engage in insightful discussions and seek mentorship to gain deeper insights into diverse career paths and opportunities in political science in India.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars and departmental announcements, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, Event listings for academic and policy conferences
Career Connection
Networking opens crucial doors to potential job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborative projects, all of which are vital for sustained career advancement in both academia and the policy sector in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A. or equivalent) in Political Science or any allied social science discipline with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPS 101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Theories of State (Organic, Idealist, Marxist), Concepts of Liberty, Equality, Rights, Justice: Procedural and Substantive, Democracy and its Forms, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy |
| MPS 102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Manu), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Abul Fazal, Barani), Raja Ram Mohan Roy and Liberalism, Gandhi''''s Philosophy of Swaraj and Satyagraha, Ambedkar''''s Social Justice and State Socialism, Nehru''''s Democratic Socialism |
| MPS 103 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, and Types of Research, Research Problem and Hypothesis Formulation, Research Design and Methods (Quantitative, Qualitative), Data Collection Techniques (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling: Types and Techniques, Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Report Writing |
| MPS 104 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit), Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation, Good Governance and E-governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPS 201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli''''s Political Realism, Social Contract Theories (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), J.S. Mill''''s Liberty and Representative Government, Marx''''s Historical Materialism and Class Struggle |
| MPS 202 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Emergence of Indian Nationalism, Rise of Liberal and Extremist Thought, Jawaharlal Nehru''''s Vision for India, Jayaprakash Narayan''''s Total Revolution, Ram Manohar Lohia''''s Socialism, Currents in Contemporary Indian Political Thought |
| MPS 203 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Constitutional Framework of States, Role of Governor and Chief Minister, State Legislature and Bureaucracy, Dynamics of Regionalism and Sub-nationalism, Coalition Politics and Electoral Behavior, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies |
| MPS 204 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Evolution of International System (Cold War, Post-Cold War), International Organizations (UN, EU, ASEAN), Global Challenges (Terrorism, Climate Change, Poverty), Nuclear Proliferation and Disarmament, India''''s Role in Changing Global Order |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPS 301 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope, and Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems (Democratic, Authoritarian, Totalitarian), Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Constitutionalism and Federalism, State and Civil Society, Globalization and Comparative Political Analysis |
| MPS 302 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Evolution and Principles of Non-Alignment, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), Neighborhood Policy (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal), India and Regional Organizations (SAARC, BRICS), Economic Diplomacy and Multilateral Forums |
| MPS 303 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in the Indian Constitution, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State Commissions, Role of NGOs and Civil Society in Human Rights, Challenges to Human Rights in India |
| MPS 304 | Rural Development in India | Core | 4 | Concepts and Indicators of Rural Development, Approaches to Rural Development (Community Development), Rural Poverty and Employment Programs (MGNREGA, NRLM), Agricultural Development and Policies, Rural Infrastructure and Social Welfare Programs, Decentralization and Self-Help Groups (SHGs) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPS 401 | Public Policy and Governance | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, and Scope of Public Policy, Models of Public Policy Analysis, Policy Formulation, Implementation, and Evaluation, Concepts of Governance and Good Governance, Citizen-Centric Administration (RTI, Grievance Redressal), E-Governance and Digital India initiatives |
| MPS 402 | Global Political Economy | Core | 4 | Theories of Global Political Economy (Mercantilism, Liberalism, Marxism), Globalization and its Impact on States, International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank, WTO), Multinational Corporations (MNCs) and Transnational Actors, North-South Divide and Development Issues, Global Justice and Inequality |
| MPS 403 | Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 4 | Challenges to Democracy (Populism, Polarization), Identity Politics (Caste, Religion, Gender), Environmental Politics and Climate Change Governance, Terrorism and National Security Challenges, Role of Media and Social Media in Politics, Emerging Powers and Reshaping Global Order |
| MPS 404 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 6 | Identification of Research Problem and Objectives, Extensive Literature Review, Designing Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Structure and Content of Dissertation Report, Viva-Voce Examination and Presentation |
