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B-A in Political Science at Smt. Vimla Rani Bhargava Balika Mahavidyalaya
Kaushambi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Smt. Vimla Rani Bhargava Balika Mahavidyalaya Kaushambi?
This Political Science program at Smt. Vimla Rani Bhargava Balika Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, governmental structures, international relations, and public administration. Tailored to the evolving socio-political landscape of India, it delves into both foundational concepts and contemporary issues. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, addressing the demand for informed citizens and professionals in public service, governance, and policy analysis within the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 humanities streams seeking entry into civil services, journalism, or research. It also serves as a strong foundation for those aspiring to careers in government, NGOs, or think tanks in India. Individuals with a keen interest in national and international affairs, public policy, and societal development, and those looking to develop strong analytical and communication skills will find this course particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC/State PSC), political analysis, journalism, public relations, and social work. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning significantly more, especially in government and policy roles. The program aligns well with competitive exam preparations and offers a growth trajectory towards leadership positions in various public and private sectors in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories, concepts like state, sovereignty, justice, and the basics of the Indian constitution. Create concept maps and summaries for each chapter. Regularly review historical developments of Indian nationalism.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science textbooks (Class XI & XII), Basic Political Theory texts (e.g., O.P. Gauba), Online platforms like e-Pathshala
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/State PSCs and for advanced studies in Political Science, providing the bedrock for analytical thinking.
Develop Effective Study & Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of reading daily newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) to connect theoretical knowledge with current affairs. Practice active reading by highlighting key arguments and making notes. Join study groups for peer discussion and clarification of complex topics.
Tools & Resources
Quality newspapers, Academic journals accessible via university library, Online news analysis portals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for staying updated in fields like journalism, civil services, and policy analysis, enhancing comprehension and analytical speed for competitive environments.
Participate in Academic Debates & Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in classroom discussions, college debates, and essay writing competitions on socio-political issues. This enhances articulation skills, critical thinking, and the ability to present well-reasoned arguments.
Tools & Resources
College literary and debate societies, Online forums for political discourse, Essay writing clubs
Career Connection
Improves public speaking, persuasive communication, and analytical skills, vital for roles in advocacy, media, and public relations.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theory to Real-world Scenarios- (Semester 3-5)
Analyze contemporary political events and policies through the lens of comparative politics, public administration, and international relations theories learned. Write analytical essays comparing political systems or assessing policy impacts in India.
Tools & Resources
Case studies, Policy documents, News analyses, Academic articles on Indian politics, Government reports
Career Connection
Develops practical application skills essential for policy research, civil services, and roles in think tanks, enabling informed decision-making.
Seek Internships or Volunteering Opportunities- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internships with local NGOs working in governance, human rights, or social development. Volunteer for local political campaigns or community initiatives to gain practical exposure to political processes.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, NGO portals (e.g., iVolunteer.in), Local community organizations
Career Connection
Provides valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a realistic understanding of the field, significantly boosting employability for entry-level roles.
Enhance Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on developing strong research methodologies, data collection, and academic writing. Undertake small research projects or term papers on specific Indian political issues, utilizing library resources and academic databases.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Research methodology guides, Citation management tools
Career Connection
Crucial for careers in academia, policy analysis, journalism, and research, demonstrating the ability to conduct independent scholarly work.
Advanced Stage
Comprehensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for UPSC Civil Services or State PSC exams, focusing on the Political Science optional paper and General Studies. Join coaching classes if feasible, and rigorously practice previous year''''s questions.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (e.g., Vajiram & Ravi, Vision IAS), Online test series, Standard UPSC preparation books (e.g., M. Laxmikanth for Polity), Dedicated study groups
Career Connection
Directly targets highly coveted careers in Indian administration, foreign service, and police service, offering structured preparation for a competitive path.
Specialize in a Niche Area & Network Professionally- (Semester 6)
Deep dive into a specific area of Political Science (e.g., human rights, international security, Indian foreign policy) for dissertations or advanced projects. Attend seminars, workshops, and connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in the field.
Tools & Resources
Academic conferences, LinkedIn, Departmental alumni meetups, Specialized research centers
Career Connection
Develops expertise for specialized roles in think tanks, research institutions, and international organizations, while networking opens doors to career opportunities.
Develop Policy Analysis and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 6)
Work on projects that involve analyzing existing public policies in India, identifying gaps, and proposing improvements. Practice drafting policy briefs, position papers, and presenting recommendations effectively. Engage in mock interviews for policy-oriented roles.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Government policy documents, Think tank publications, Public policy workshops, Career services
Career Connection
Prepares graduates for roles in policy analysis, lobbying, advocacy, and consulting, where understanding and influencing public policy are key responsibilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per University/UGC norms (typically 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010101T | Introduction to Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, State and Sovereignty, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Democracy and its Theories, Power and Authority |
| POL010102T | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Constitutional Developments 1773-1947, Making of the Indian Constitution, Salient Features of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010201T | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to Political Theory, Liberalism and its Variants, Socialism and Marxism, Feminism and Anarchism, Environmentalism |
| POL010202T | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Preamble and Federalism, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Indian Parliament, Supreme Court and Judicial Review, State Government (Governor, CM, Legislature) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010301T | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions of UK, USA, Constitutions of China, Switzerland, Party Systems and Electoral Systems, Interest Groups and Pressure Groups |
| POL010302T | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Scope, Significance of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy and its Role, Financial Administration and Budgeting, Public Policy and Decision Making |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010401T | International Relations | Core | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and its Organs, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), Disarmament and Arms Control |
| POL010402T | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, J.S. Mill and Karl Marx, Hegel and Gramsci |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010501T | Indian Political Thinkers | Core | 4 | Kautilya and Manu, Gandhi and Nehru, Ambedkar and Savarkar, Lohia and Jai Prakash Narayan, M.N. Roy |
| POL010502T | Principles of Public International Law | Core | 4 | Nature and Basis of International Law, Sources of International Law, Recognition and State Jurisdiction, Law of the Sea and Air Space, International Court of Justice |
| POL010503T | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Concept and Theories of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs in Human Rights |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL010601T | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India''''s Relations with USA, Russia, China, India and its Neighbors, India at the United Nations |
| POL010602T | Local Self Government in India | Core | 4 | Panchayati Raj Institutions (73rd Amendment), Urban Local Bodies (74th Amendment), State Election Commission, State Finance Commission, Challenges to Local Self Government |
| POL010603T | Contemporary Political Issues | Elective | 4 | Globalization and its Impact, Environmentalism and Climate Change, Terrorism and Global Security, Women''''s Movement and Gender Issues, Role of Civil Society and NGOs |
