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M-A in Political Science at Singh Vahini Mahavidyalaya
Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Singh Vahini Mahavidyalaya Auraiya?
This Political Science program at Singh Vahini Mahavidyalaya focuses on understanding the dynamics of governance, public policy, and international relations within an Indian and global context. It delves into political theories, comparative politics, and the intricacies of the Indian political system. The program is designed to cultivate analytical and critical thinking skills, preparing students for roles in public service, research, and policy advocacy, reflecting the growing demand for informed political analysis in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, humanities, or law who seek a deeper understanding of political processes. It also suits working professionals in government, NGOs, or media looking to enhance their analytical capabilities and contribute to public discourse. Individuals aspiring for civil services, academic careers, or roles in political consulting will find the curriculum comprehensive and relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services, legislative research, political journalism, think tanks, and social activism. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8 LPA or more. The program fosters skills crucial for policy analysis, advocacy, and leadership, aligning with the increasing need for skilled professionals in India''''s dynamic political landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Theoretical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Rigorously study fundamental political theories, ideologies, and the structure of the Indian political system. Create detailed notes, actively participate in class discussions, and form study groups with peers to strengthen conceptual understanding. Focus on clarity of definition and application of theories.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks (Class 11 & 12) for basic understanding, Standard Indian political science reference books (e.g., O.P. Gauba, P.D. Sharma), University library and online academic journals
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is indispensable for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services and State PSCs, where conceptual clarity and analytical depth are highly tested. It also forms the basis for roles in research and policy analysis.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage with diverse perspectives by reading scholarly articles, current affairs analyses, and policy documents beyond basic textbooks. Practice critical analysis by identifying arguments, evidence, and underlying assumptions. Participate in college debates and essay writing competitions to refine articulation.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), University debate clubs or literary societies
Career Connection
Sharp analytical and critical thinking skills are invaluable for roles in journalism, think tanks, legislative research, and any position requiring informed decision-making and nuanced policy interpretation within the Indian context.
Build a Strong Academic Network- (Semester 1-2)
Actively interact with professors during office hours to clarify doubts, seek guidance on academic and career paths, and discuss research interests. Connect with senior students and alumni for insights into course challenges, study strategies, and post-graduation opportunities, especially regarding regional job markets or civil service preparation.
Tools & Resources
College faculty office hours, Senior batch students and alumni networks (if available), Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Networking can open doors to research assistantships, mentorship, and informal job leads, which are particularly valuable in navigating career paths within India''''s diverse professional landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Applied Research and Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Take initiative in your research methodology course and the mandatory project work/dissertation. Identify local political issues or policy challenges, conduct small-scale surveys, interviews, or qualitative analysis. This transforms theoretical knowledge into practical insights relevant to India''''s ground realities.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey or Google Forms for data collection, University''''s research facilities or mentors for guidance, Local NGOs or community organizations for field exposure
Career Connection
Practical research experience is highly valued in think tanks, NGOs, government research departments, and academic institutions, enhancing your resume for specialized roles and demonstrating problem-solving abilities.
Seek Internships with Political/Social Organizations- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for internship opportunities with local political parties, NGOs focused on governance or human rights, legislative assembly offices, or local government departments. These internships provide firsthand exposure to policy implementation, grassroots politics, and administrative processes in India.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if active), Online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct outreach to local organizations, district administration offices, or political leaders'''' secretariats
Career Connection
Internships are critical for gaining practical experience, building a professional network, and understanding the ground realities of political science applications in India, significantly boosting employability and providing clarity on career interests.
Participate in Workshops and Mock Sessions for Civil Services- (Semester 3-4)
Attend workshops focused on current affairs, public speaking, and essay writing relevant to competitive exams like UPSC and State PCS. Participate in mock parliamentary sessions, group discussions, or debates to hone articulation, persuasion, and leadership skills, which are crucial for interviews and administrative roles.
Tools & Resources
Local coaching centers for civil services (online/offline), University career counseling cell, Public speaking clubs or debate societies
Career Connection
Direct and focused preparation for civil services significantly increases the chances of cracking these highly sought-after government jobs, which are a major career aspiration for many Political Science graduates in India, offering stable and impactful careers.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized university, typically with at least 45% marks. A Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science is often preferred.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSPA-501 | Theoretical Perspectives of Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Liberalism and its variants, Marxism and Socialist thought, Feminism and its approaches, Post-Modernism and critical theories |
| PSPA-502 | Political Thought (Western) | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes'''' Social Contract Theory, Locke''''s Natural Rights, Rousseau''''s General Will |
| PSPA-503 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive and Legislature, Indian Judiciary and Judicial Review, Federalism in India |
| PSPA-504 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Manusmriti and Dharma, Raja Ram Mohan Roy''''s Reformism, M.K. Gandhi''''s Satyagraha, B.R. Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, M.N. Roy''''s Radical Humanism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSPA-505 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its types, Financial Administration and Budgeting, Good Governance and E-governance |
| PSPA-506 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Political System approaches, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Constitutionalism and Authoritarianism |
| PSPA-507 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Approaches to International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Concept of Power, National Interest, Security, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN), India''''s Foreign Policy |
| PSPA-508 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Research, Types of Research (Qualitative, Quantitative), Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Sampling Techniques, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSPA-601 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Legitimacy, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Elites and Power Structures, Social Movements and Political Participation |
| PSPA-602 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Conventions and Treaties |
| PSPA-603 | Regionalism and Nationalism in India | Core | 4 | Concept of Nation, Nationalism, and Nation-State, Regionalism in India: Causes and Manifestations, Linguistic Reorganization of States, Separatist Movements and Autonomy Demands |
| PSPA-604 (E-1) | Diplomacy and Foreign Policy | Elective | 4 | Meaning and Objectives of Diplomacy, Types of Diplomacy (Bilateral, Multilateral), Foreign Policy Decision Making Process, India''''s Foreign Policy: Principles and Challenges |
| PSPA-604 (E-2) | Political Economy | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Economy, Capitalism and Socialism, Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Globalization, Liberalization, Privatization, Role of State in Economy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSPA-605 | Environmental Politics | Core | 4 | Concept of Environment and Sustainable Development, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Global Environmental Governance, Environmental Policy and Law in India, Resource Scarcity and Conflict |
| PSPA-606 | Peace and Conflict Studies | Core | 4 | Concept of Peace and Conflict, Theories of Conflict Resolution, Non-violence and Gandhian Philosophy, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Nuclear Disarmament and Arms Control, Peacekeeping Operations |
| PSPA-607 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
| PSPA-608 (E-1) | Gender and Politics | Elective | 4 | Concept of Gender and Patriarchy, Feminist Theories and Movements, Women in Indian Politics and Governance, Gender and Development, Gender-based Violence and Rights |
| PSPA-608 (E-2) | Ethics in Politics | Elective | 4 | Political Ethics and Morality, Concept of Justice and Fairness, Corruption in Public Life, Accountability and Transparency in Governance, Dilemmas in Political Decision-Making |
