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B-A in Defence Strategic Studies at SIDDHARTH MAHAVIDYALAYA, BARDAPUR, SIDDHARTH NAGAR
Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Defence & Strategic Studies at SIDDHARTH MAHAVIDYALAYA, BARDAPUR, SIDDHARTH NAGAR Siddharthnagar?
This Defence & Strategic Studies program at Siddharth Mahavidyalaya offers an in-depth understanding of national security, military history, and international relations. Crucial for India, it analyzes evolving geopolitical landscapes, equipping students for defense services, think tanks, and strategic analysis. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach provides a holistic perspective on complex security challenges, aligning with current national needs.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for young graduates passionate about national security, military affairs, and international relations, aspiring for careers in defense forces, intelligence, or civil services. It provides foundational strategic understanding. It also suits individuals looking to contribute to policy research or journalism in these fields. Students from any 10+2 background with strong analytical skills are encouraged.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles in armed forces (UPSC CDS/NDA), intelligence bureaus, defense journalism, and policy research. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth for experienced strategic advisors or government officials. The program enhances competitiveness for administrative and foreign services examinations, offering strong professional trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Knowledge in Military History & Theory- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with prescribed texts, create timelines of historical conflicts, and participate in academic discussions to solidify understanding of foundational concepts of warfare, national power, and Indian military history.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online historical archives, Documentaries on military history, College history/defence clubs
Career Connection
Strong historical context is vital for analytical roles in defence, intelligence, and competitive examinations like UPSC and CDS.
Develop Critical Reading and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate habits of reading scholarly articles and news from credible sources on defence matters. Practice summarizing complex strategic theories, identifying key arguments, and referencing sources correctly for assignments.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Reputable defence journals (e.g., Indian Defence Review), International news outlets (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
Essential for research, policy analysis, and any role requiring in-depth information processing and evidence-based decision-making.
Engage in Current Affairs & Geo-politics Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated on contemporary global and regional security issues. Participate in group discussions, debates, and mock UN sessions to articulate opinions on current events and strategic challenges.
Tools & Resources
Reputed news channels (e.g., Rajya Sabha TV, DD News), Online forums on international relations, Weekly news magazines (e.g., India Today, Frontline)
Career Connection
Crucial for civil services, foreign policy analysis, and understanding the practical application of theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects and Case Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world defence and strategic scenarios. Work on small research projects analyzing specific conflicts, security policies, or defence strategies, presenting findings to peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (e.g., JSTOR, ResearchGate), Government defence reports (e.g., Ministry of Defence reports), Open-source intelligence platforms
Career Connection
Develops analytical and problem-solving skills highly valued in policy research, strategic think tanks, and defense intelligence roles.
Seek Internships/Field Visits in Relevant Organizations- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for internship opportunities with NGOs working on security, local police departments, or participate in NCC/NSS activities to gain practical exposure to defense-related institutions.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Career fairs and workshops, Networking with alumni, Official government websites for internship notifications
Career Connection
Provides invaluable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of career paths, aiding in future placements.
Participate in Defence-focused Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Join essay competitions on national security, participate in strategic simulations, or attend workshops on intelligence analysis or cyber warfare to enhance specialized skills and network with experts.
Tools & Resources
University bulletin boards and social media groups for academic competitions, Defence expos and seminars, Online strategic simulation games
Career Connection
Builds a competitive resume, showcases expertise, and provides direct interaction with potential mentors and employers in the defence sector.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 5-6)
Focus on UPSC (Civil Services, CDS) and other government service exams relevant to defence and strategic roles. Dedicate time to solve previous year papers, join mock test series, and attend coaching classes.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms for competitive exam preparation (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s), Specific books for general knowledge, aptitude, and defence studies, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for high-demand government roles in administration, foreign services, and defence forces, offering stable career paths.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 5)
Conduct in-depth research on a contemporary strategic issue as part of the curriculum. Choose a relevant topic, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data, and present a well-structured research paper under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
University library and academic journals, Statistical software (if applicable), Mentorship from departmental faculty and experts
Career Connection
Develops advanced research and analytical skills, crucial for postgraduate studies, think tank roles, policy formulation, and academic careers.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 5-6)
Build a strong professional circle for career opportunities by attending university alumni events, participating in industry seminars, connecting with professionals on LinkedIn, and seeking informational interviews.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn and other professional networking platforms, Professional associations in defence and security, University alumni network portals
Career Connection
Facilitates job referrals, mentorship, and insights into current industry trends, leading to better placement opportunities and long-term career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 in any stream (typical for B.A. programs, as per university norms)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 (as per Siddharth University''''s general NEP 2020 guidelines for BA programs) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (25 marks per paper), External: 75% (75 marks per paper)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 101 | Fundamentals of Defence and Strategic Studies | Core Major | 6 | Introduction to Defence & Strategic Studies, Concepts of War and Peace, Elements of National Power, Geopolitics and Geo-strategy, Defence Organization in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 102 | Military History of India (Ancient to Medieval Period) | Core Major | 6 | Sources of Military History, Ancient Indian Warfare, Medieval Indian Warfare, Battles and Tactics, Military Thinkers |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 201 | Military History of India (Modern Period) | Core Major | 6 | Rise of European Powers, Maratha Warfare, Anglo-Indian Wars, First War of Indian Independence, World War I & II Impacts |
| DDS 202 | Warfare and Military Psychology | Core Major | 6 | Psychology of Warfare, Morale and Leadership, Stress in Combat, Psychological Operations, Military Counseling |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 203 | World Military History (Major Conflicts) | Core Major | 6 | Peloponnesian War, Napoleonic Wars, World War I, World War II, Cold War Conflicts |
| DDS 204 | International Security and Organizations | Core Major | 6 | Concepts of International Security, Arms Control and Disarmament, Role of United Nations, Regional Security Organizations, Non-State Actors |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 301 | India''''s National Security Challenges | Core Major | 6 | Internal Security Threats, External Security Threats, Border Management, Terrorism, Cyber Security |
| DDS 302 | Defence Economics and Management | Core Major | 6 | Defence Budgeting, Defence Procurement, Defence Industrial Base, Defence R&D, Logistics Management |
| DDS 303 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project (Core Major) | 6 | Research Methodology, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DDS 304 | Strategic Thought (Eastern and Western) | Core Major | 6 | Sun Tzu and Kautilya, Machiavelli and Jomini, Clausewitz''''s Theory of War, Mahan''''s Sea Power, Liddell Hart''''s Indirect Approach |
| DDS 305 | Contemporary Strategic Issues | Core Major | 6 | Nuclear Proliferation, Space Warfare, Information and Cyber Warfare, Hybrid Warfare, Maritime Security |
| DDS 306 | Internship/Field Work/Industrial Training | Internship (Core Major) | 6 | Practical Exposure to Defence Sector, Application of Theoretical Knowledge, Observation and Report Writing, Professional Ethics and Conduct, Skill Development |
