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B-A in Political Science at Sri Adichunchanagiri First Grade College, Chennarayapatna
Hassan, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Sri Adichunchanagiri First Grade College, Chennarayapatna Hassan?
This Political Science program at Sri Adichunchanagiri First Grade College, affiliated with the University of Mysore, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills necessary to interpret complex political phenomena and contribute to public discourse, reflecting the evolving demands of Indian civil services and policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates aspiring to join civil services like UPSC and KPSC, those interested in public policy and advocacy roles, aspiring journalists focusing on political reporting, and individuals keen on pursuing higher education in political science or international relations. It also caters to those seeking roles in NGOs, research organizations, or teaching positions.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including administrative roles in central and state governments, positions in think tanks and research institutions, and careers in media and journalism. Entry-level salaries for civil service roles can range from INR 5-10 lakhs per annum, while positions in NGOs or media typically start around INR 3-5 lakhs, with significant growth potential as experience accrues in these vital sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political concepts and theories. Regularly read standard textbooks and refer to academic journals. Participate in class discussions to solidify knowledge and challenge your perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, A. Heywood), Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Online lecture series on NPTEL/SWAYAM
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced studies, providing the analytical framework needed for policy analysis.
Cultivate Regular News & Current Affairs Consumption- (Semester 1-2)
Make a habit of reading at least two national newspapers daily (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and watching credible news debates. This connects theoretical knowledge with real-world Indian political developments.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates), Rajya Sabha TV/Lok Sabha TV debates
Career Connection
Essential for civil services, journalism, and public policy roles, ensuring you are informed about contemporary issues and can articulate informed opinions.
Engage in Debates and Public Speaking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in college debates, elocution competitions, and group discussions. This improves articulation, critical thinking, and the ability to present arguments effectively, which are vital for a political science student.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Toastmasters International (if available), Mock Parliament sessions
Career Connection
Develops communication and persuasive skills invaluable for advocacy, journalism, law, and administrative positions, particularly during interviews and public interactions.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Local Governance Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Seek internships with local NGOs, Gram Panchayats, Municipal Corporations, or even local political representatives. This provides practical exposure to governance challenges and grassroots politics in India.
Tools & Resources
Local NGO directories, College career services, Direct outreach to political offices
Career Connection
Gains practical understanding of policy implementation and governance, highly valued for roles in public administration, social work, and development sectors.
Develop Academic Research & Writing Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on improving essay writing, literature review, and basic research skills through term papers and projects. Practice structuring arguments and citing sources accurately, preparing for the research methodology course.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Purdue OWL for academic writing, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
Crucial for academic careers, think tank positions, policy analysis, and advanced degrees, demonstrating analytical rigor and scholarly communication.
Participate in Model UN and Policy Simulations- (Semester 3-5)
Join Model United Nations (MUN) events or other policy simulation exercises to understand international diplomacy, negotiation, and global governance from an Indian perspective. This builds confidence and global awareness.
Tools & Resources
College MUN clubs, National-level MUN conferences, Online resources for UN procedures
Career Connection
Enhances diplomatic skills, cross-cultural understanding, and strategic thinking, beneficial for careers in foreign policy, international organizations, and corporate roles requiring global perspectives.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services or State Public Service Commission exams (like KPSC). This involves dedicated study of optional subjects, general studies, and regular mock tests, aligning academic knowledge with exam requirements.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/KPSC previous year papers, Coaching institutes (optional), Online test series and study groups
Career Connection
Directly targets top administrative roles in India, providing a structured pathway to impactful careers in public service and policy-making.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Engage in a final-year research project on a contemporary Indian political issue, leveraging your accumulated knowledge and research skills. This allows for in-depth specialization and original contribution.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, University library databases, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Showcases expertise and research capability for postgraduate studies, think tank positions, or specialized policy advisory roles, enhancing your profile for niche areas.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 6)
Actively connect with alumni working in public administration, journalism, NGOs, and academia. Attend seminars, workshops, and career fairs to gain insights, seek mentorship, and explore potential career opportunities relevant to the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network events, Professional associations
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, job referrals, and mentorship, crucial for navigating career transitions and securing rewarding positions after graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in PUC / 12th grade examination or equivalent from a recognized board. (Source: University of Mysore General Admission Criteria)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: Political Science Major: 60 credits; Overall B.A. (Honours) Degree: 140 credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 1.1 PS | Political Science: Basic Political Concepts | Core | 4 | Political Science: Meaning & Scope, State: Origin, Nature, Functions, Sovereignty, Law, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights & Duties, Nationalism and Globalism |
| BA 1.2 PS | Political Science: Political Theory | Core | 4 | Political Theory: Meaning, Nature, Significance, Liberalism: Classical and Modern, Marxism and Socialism, Conservatism, Anarchism, Feminism, Postmodernism and Multiculturalism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 2.1 PS | Political Science: Indian Constitution and Government | Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Duties, DPSP, Union Executive: President, PM, Council of Ministers, Union Legislature: Parliament, Indian Judiciary: Supreme Court, High Courts, Federalism in India |
| BA 2.2 PS | Political Science: Karnataka Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Formation of Karnataka State, Governor and Chief Minister, State Legislature and Judiciary, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Regionalism in Karnataka |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 3.1 PS | Political Science: Public Administration | Core | 4 | Public Administration: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Principles of Organization: Hierarchy, Span of Control, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Bureaucracy and Good Governance, Decentralization and E-Governance |
| BA 3.2 PS | Political Science: Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Karl Marx: Class Struggle, Revolution |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 4.1 PS | Political Science: Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Dharma, Danda, Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Medieval Indian Thought: Barani, Abul Fazal, Raja Rammohan Roy: Social Reforms, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, V.D. Savarkar |
| BA 4.2 PS | Political Science: International Relations | Core | 4 | International Relations: Meaning, Scope, Approaches, Theories of IR: Realism, Liberalism, Constructivism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Non-Alignment Movement, United Nations: Organs, Functions, Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, EU |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 5.1 PS | Political Science: Human Rights | Core | 4 | Human Rights: Meaning, Nature, Types, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs in Human Rights, Women''''s Rights, Child Rights |
| BA 5.2 PS | Political Science: State and Society in India | Core | 4 | Theoretical Perspectives on State and Society, Caste and Politics in India, Class, Religion, and Language in Politics, Gender and Politics, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Environmental Movements |
| BA 5.3 PS | Political Science: Research Methodology | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Social Science Research: Meaning, Types, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Observation, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA 6.1 PS | Political Science: Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement: Evolution and Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers: USA, Russia, China, India''''s Neighbourhood Policy, Economic Diplomacy and Global Challenges, India in International Organizations |
| BA 6.2 PS | Political Science: Contemporary Political Issues | Core | 4 | Environmental Politics and Climate Change, Terrorism: Causes, Consequences, Counter-terrorism, Globalisation: Impact on State Sovereignty, Good Governance and Human Development, Electoral Reforms in India, Democracy and Social Movements |
| BA 6.3 PS | Political Science: Environmental Politics | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Environmentalism: Theories and Movements, Environmental Policy and Governance in India, Climate Change Politics: National and International, Sustainable Development Goals, Role of State and Civil Society in Environmental Protection, Environmental Justice |
| BA 6.4 PS | Project Work / Internship | Project | 3 | Project Proposal Development, Literature Review and Research Question Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Internship in Government/NGO/Think Tank, Fieldwork and Case Studies |
