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BA in Political Science at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University)
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at SRM Institute of Science and Technology (Deemed to be University) Chengalpattu?
This Political Science program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on equipping students with a profound understanding of political systems, theories, and governance. It delves into Indian and global political contexts, emphasizing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex societal challenges. The curriculum integrates traditional political concepts with contemporary issues like digital tools and current global affairs, addressing the evolving demands of research and policy-making in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in public affairs, international relations, law, and social justice. It is also well-suited for individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, policy analysis, advocacy, or teaching. Students with a strong aptitude for reading, research, and debate, who wish to understand the dynamics of power and governance, will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India''''s dynamic public and private sectors. Opportunities include roles in government agencies, think tanks, NGOs, media houses, and international organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy analysis or advocacy roles. The program fosters skills highly valued in UPSC/State PSC examinations and contributes to effective civic engagement.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Political Concepts and Build Strong English & Language Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core concepts like state, power, liberty, and justice by consistent reading of textbooks and recommended articles. Simultaneously, dedicate time to improve English communication and chosen Indian/foreign language proficiency, which are crucial for academic writing and civil services examinations. Participate in introductory debates to articulate views.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Introduction to Political Theory by O.P. Gauba, Indian Polity by M. Laxmikanth, Online grammar checkers, Language learning apps like Duolingo
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is essential for higher studies, civil service exams, and entry-level research roles. Excellent communication skills are paramount for any professional field.
Develop Digital Literacy and Current Affairs Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering digital tools for research and presentation as taught in practical labs. Supplement this by religiously following national and international news, analyzing current events through the lens of political science. Form study groups to discuss and critically analyze daily news and policy developments.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Office Suite, Google Scholar, Reputable news channels (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express, BBC, Al Jazeera), UPSC-specific current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Digital literacy is a basic professional requirement. A strong grasp of current affairs is indispensable for policy analysis, journalism, civil services, and informed civic participation.
Cultivate Soft Skills and Build Academic Networks- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in soft skills development modules, focusing on public speaking, teamwork, and basic problem-solving. Attend departmental seminars and guest lectures to interact with faculty and senior students, laying the groundwork for academic mentorship and future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
College career guidance cell workshops, LinkedIn for academic networking, Toastmasters International (if available)
Career Connection
Enhanced soft skills are critical for interviews, group discussions, and workplace success. Networking can open doors to research opportunities and internships.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Comparative Analysis and Research Project Work- (Semester 3-5)
Apply comparative methods to analyze different political systems and ideologies. Proactively seek opportunities to work on small research projects with faculty or take on independent study, focusing on a specific area of interest within Indian or international politics. This is crucial for developing independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Sage Journals, Research methodology handbooks, Data analysis software (e.g., SPSS basics, if introduced)
Career Connection
Research experience is vital for postgraduate studies, think tank positions, and policy formulation roles. Comparative analysis skills are highly valued in international relations and diplomacy.
Seek Internships and Field Exposure- (Semester 4-5)
Actively look for internships with NGOs, political campaigns, research organizations, or local government bodies (Panchayats/Municipalities). This provides invaluable real-world experience, helps in understanding ground realities of governance and policy implementation, and builds a professional network.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (Internshala, LetsIntern), Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct pathway to placements, provide practical skills, and enhance one''''s resume for competitive job markets or higher education admissions.
Deepen Specialization and Participate in Academic Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives thoughtfully, aligning them with potential career interests (e.g., Human Rights, Geopolitics). Participate in inter-college debates, Model UN, policy brief competitions, or essay contests to hone analytical and presentation skills and gain recognition.
Tools & Resources
Departmental clubs, National/international student competitions, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Specialization enhances expertise for targeted roles. Competition participation showcases talent, builds confidence, and adds significant value to academic and professional profiles.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Project-Based Learning and Comprehensive Civil Service Preparation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant effort to the final year project, aiming for high-quality research and analysis. If aspiring for civil services, integrate preparation strategically by covering the syllabus for UPSC/State PSC general studies and optional subjects alongside academic coursework.
Tools & Resources
UPSC study materials, Coaching institutes (if opting), Previous year question papers, Faculty guidance for project work
Career Connection
A strong project can serve as a portfolio for jobs or higher studies. Focused civil service preparation directly leads to opportunities in government administration and policy.
Strategic Networking and Career Planning Workshops- (Semester 6)
Actively network with alumni, professionals in policy-making, journalism, and international organizations through LinkedIn, career fairs, and departmental events. Attend workshops on resume building, interview techniques, and postgraduate study options (e.g., MA Political Science, Law, Public Policy).
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Premium, College alumni network, Career counseling services, Professional associations
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for job leads, mentorship, and understanding industry trends. Effective career planning ensures a smooth transition from academics to professional life.
Enhance Advanced Research and Internship Outcomes- (Semester 6)
Leverage the final internship to gain maximum practical experience and mentorship, striving for a publishable quality report. For those considering academic careers, explore opportunities to present research papers at student conferences or publish in college journals.
Tools & Resources
Research ethics guidelines, Academic writing resources, Peer review groups, Internship supervisors
Career Connection
A robust internship and research output greatly enhance employability and admission prospects for competitive graduate programs, especially for roles requiring analytical and policy expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in 10+2 Higher Secondary Examination (Academic/Vocational) or its equivalent.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 138 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (Theory), 50% (Practical), External: 60% (Theory), 50% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23LEL101 | English | Core | 3 | Reading Comprehension, Grammar, Writing Skills, Communication, Vocabulary |
| 23LAL101 / 23LFL101 / 23LKL101 / 23LSL101 / 23LTL101 | Language (Arabic/French/Hindi/Sanskrit/Tamil) | Core | 3 | Grammar, Reading, Writing, Literary Texts, Cultural Aspects |
| 23BPOL101 | Introduction to Political Science | Core | 4 | Political Theory, State and Sovereignty, Power and Authority, Forms of Government, Rights and Liberty, Justice and Equality |
| 23BPOL102 | Fundamentals of International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Bipolarity, Globalization, International Organizations, Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, Geopolitics |
| 23BPOL103 | Political Science with Digital Tools – Lab | Core (Practical) | 2 | Data Analysis Tools, Presentation Software, Spreadsheet Applications, Online Research Methods, Digital Ethics, Information Management |
| 23EVS101 | Environmental Science | Elective | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics, Conservation |
| 23SSC101 | Soft Skills – I | Elective | 3 | Communication Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Problem Solving, Time Management, Public Speaking Basics, Self-Introduction |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23LEL201 | English – II | Core | 3 | Advanced Reading Techniques, Literary Analysis, Critical Thinking, Academic Writing, Presentation Skills, Essay Writing |
| 23LAL201 / 23LFL201 / 23LKL201 / 23LSL201 / 23LTL201 | Language – II (Arabic/French/Hindi/Sanskrit/Tamil) | Core | 3 | Advanced Grammar, Prose and Poetry Analysis, Translation Skills, Cultural Context, Literary Movements, Composition |
| 23BPOL201 | Political Ideologies | Core | 4 | Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Nationalism, Feminism, Fascism |
| 23BPOL202 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Thinkers, Medieval Political Thought, Modern Indian Thinkers, Gandhi''''s Political Ideas, Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, Nehruvian Policies |
| 23BPOL203 | Current Global Affairs | Core | 4 | Contemporary International Issues, Regional Conflicts, International Alliances, Global Governance, Human Rights Debates, Climate Politics |
| 23GEA201 | General Elective | Elective | 3 | |
| 23SSC201 | Soft Skills – II | Elective | 3 | Group Discussion Strategies, Interview Skills, Professional Etiquette, Leadership Qualities, Teamwork and Collaboration, Motivation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23BPOL301 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Comparative Methods, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Political Systems, Electoral Systems, Federalism vs Unitary Systems, Political Parties |
| 23BPOL302 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles, Union Executive and Legislature, Judiciary in India, Indian Federalism |
| 23BPOL303 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Bureaucracy, Public Policy Formulation, Administrative Law, Good Governance, Ethics in Administration, Decentralization |
| 23BPOL304 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Quantitative Techniques, Qualitative Methods, Survey Research, Report Writing |
| 23BPSC301 | Discipline Specific Elective – I | Elective | 4 | |
| 23SSC301 | Soft Skills – III | Elective | 3 | Critical Thinking, Creative Problem Solving, Digital Literacy, Entrepreneurship Basics, Project Management, Adaptability |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23BPOL401 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Politics, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Locke''''s Social Contract, Rousseau''''s General Will, Mill on Liberty, Marxism |
| 23BPOL402 | International Law | Core | 4 | Sources of International Law, State Recognition, Law of Treaties, Jurisdiction, Use of Force, International Criminal Law |
| 23BPOL403 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture, Political Socialization, Elites and Power, Pressure Groups, Social Movements, Revolutions |
| 23BPOL404 | Human Rights and Social Justice | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Civil and Political Rights, Economic and Social Rights, Theories of Social Justice, Discrimination and Affirmative Action |
| 23BPSC402 | Discipline Specific Elective – II | Elective | 4 | |
| 23SSC401 | Soft Skills – IV | Elective | 3 | Emotional Intelligence, Conflict Resolution, Decision Making, Negotiation Skills, Global Competence, Intercultural Communication |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23BPOL501 | International Organizations | Core | 4 | United Nations System, World Trade Organization (WTO), European Union (EU), SAARC and BRICS, Regional Blocs, Peacekeeping Operations |
| 23BPOL502 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Foreign Policy, Nehruvian Era, Non-Alignment Movement, Look East/Act East Policy, India-US Relations, India''''s Neighbourhood Policy |
| 23BPOL503 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Regional Political Parties, Caste and Politics, Language and Politics, State Autonomy, Centre-State Relations, Political Economy of States |
| 23BPSC503 | Discipline Specific Elective – III | Elective | 3 | |
| 23BPSC504 | Discipline Specific Elective – IV | Elective | 3 | |
| 23BPOL504 | Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Design, Literature Review, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Viva-voce |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23BPOL601 | Electoral Politics in India | Core | 4 | Election Commission of India, Electoral Reforms, Voting Behavior, Political Parties, Coalition Politics, Money Power in Elections |
| 23BPOL602 | Local Governance in India | Core | 4 | Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, 73rd and 74th Amendments, Decentralization, Grassroots Democracy, Local Planning |
| 23BPSC605 | Discipline Specific Elective – V | Elective | 3 | |
| 23BPSC606 | Discipline Specific Elective – VI | Elective | 3 | |
| 23BPOL603 | Internship | Project | 4 | Practical Exposure, Report Submission, Presentation, On-the-job Training, Skill Application, Professional Networking |
