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MA-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in General at S.S.L.N.T. Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Dhanbad
Dhanbad, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is General at S.S.L.N.T. Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Dhanbad Dhanbad?
This MA Political Science program at Shree Shree Lakshmi Narayan Trust Mahila Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and global dynamics relevant to India. It emphasizes critical analysis of governance, public administration, international relations, and contemporary socio-political issues. The program aims to equip students with analytical skills vital for careers in public service, research, and academia within the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science or related humanities seeking to deepen their academic knowledge. It also suits individuals aspiring for civil services, journalism, or policy analysis roles. Professionals looking to enhance their understanding of public administration or contribute to NGOs and think tanks in India will find this program beneficial. Prior interest in current affairs and socio-political discourse is highly advantageous.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, political consultancy, public policy research, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in teaching, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies. The program fosters critical thinking, research acumen, and a nuanced perspective on Indian and global politics.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with classic and modern political thinkers, understanding their core philosophies and historical contexts. Actively participate in classroom discussions and form study groups to debate complex ideas. Focus on conceptual clarity over rote memorization.
Tools & Resources
University library, Departmental seminars, Online academic journals (JSTOR, EPW), Supplementary readings from renowned political scientists
Career Connection
Strong theoretical grounding is essential for analytical roles in policy research, academia, and competitive examinations like UPSC and State PSCs.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Start practicing academic essay writing early, focusing on structuring arguments, evidence-based reasoning, and proper citation. Utilize library resources for literature review and learn to synthesize information from multiple sources.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Academic style guides (e.g., APA, MLA), Online tutorials on academic writing, Feedback from professors
Career Connection
Crucial for any role involving report writing, policy briefs, research papers, or dissertation work, vital for government and research jobs.
Stay Updated on Current National & Global Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news, political debates, and policy discussions. Connect theoretical concepts learned in class with real-world events in India and globally. This builds contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), News magazines (Frontline), Government policy reports, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Essential for civil services, journalism, public policy analysis, and general awareness required for interviews and professional roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Critical Policy Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Apply theoretical frameworks to analyze existing Indian government policies, their implementation, and impact. Participate in debates or mock policy discussions, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and alternative approaches.
Tools & Resources
Government of India ministry websites, NITI Aayog reports, Academic articles on Indian public policy, Case studies provided by faculty
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles in policy think tanks, government advisory bodies, and public administration.
Pursue Internships with NGOs or Local Governance- (Semester 3-4)
Seek short-term internships with local NGOs, municipal bodies, or Panchayati Raj institutions to gain practical exposure to governance challenges and community development. Observe administrative processes firsthand.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Local NGO directories, Direct applications to government departments
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, networking opportunities, and a realistic understanding of ground-level politics and administration in India.
Develop Specialized Research Interests- (Semester 3-4)
Identify specific areas within Political Science (e.g., gender politics, environmental governance, electoral studies in India) that resonate with your interests. Begin preliminary research and literature review for potential dissertation topics.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, Specialized research databases, Participation in inter-college academic competitions or paper presentations
Career Connection
Helps in narrowing down career focus, preparing for advanced studies (Ph.D.), and developing expertise for specialized roles in research or advocacy.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Research and Presentation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the dissertation/project work, meticulously conducting research, analyzing data, and writing a well-structured thesis. Practice presenting your findings clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (if applicable), Academic writing tools, Presentation software, Regular consultations with dissertation supervisor
Career Connection
The dissertation showcases independent research capability, a key requirement for academic positions, advanced research roles, and adds significant weight to competitive exam applications.
Prepare Strategically for Competitive Exams/Placements- (Semester 4)
If aspiring for civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), dedicate time for targeted preparation, including current affairs, general studies, and optional subjects. For other careers, tailor resume and prepare for interviews, focusing on practical applications of political science knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Online test series, Coaching institutes (if opting), Previous year question papers, Career counseling services, Mock interviews
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability for government jobs, public sector undertakings, and roles in corporate social responsibility or public relations.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 4)
Actively connect with college alumni working in diverse fields of political science, public administration, and related sectors. Attend guest lectures and workshops to interact with policy experts and bureaucrats.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni events, Departmental seminars, Professional conferences (if accessible)
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship leads, and job opportunities, providing valuable insights into various career paths post-MA.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate seeking admission to the Post-Graduate Course should have passed a Bachelor’s Degree Examination from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC 101 | Western Political Thought – I | Core | 4 | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau |
| POLSC 102 | Modern Indian Political Thought – I | Core | 4 | Rammohan Roy, Dayanand Saraswati, Vivekanand, Sri Aurobindo, Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar |
| POLSC 103 | Public Administration – I | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy, Decision Making, Leadership and Communication, Control over Administration |
| POLSC 104 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-alignment, India''''s relations with major powers (USA, Russia, China), India''''s relations with neighbours (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC 201 | Western Political Thought – II | Core | 4 | J.S. Mill, G.W.F. Hegel, Karl Marx, Lenin, Mao, Gramsci |
| POLSC 202 | Modern Indian Political Thought – II | Core | 4 | Deendayal Upadhyay, J.L. Nehru, Sardar Patel, S.C. Bose, Ram Manohar Lohia |
| POLSC 203 | Public Administration – II | Core | 4 | Financial Administration, Personnel Administration, Delegated Legislation, Administrative Tribunal, Judicial Review |
| POLSC 204 | International Relations – I | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War, Disarmament, Collective Security, Regionalism (SAARC, ASEAN) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC 301 | Indian Government & Politics – I | Core | 4 | Making of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive, Union Parliament, Judiciary |
| POLSC 302 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political System, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Electoral Systems |
| POLSC 303 | Local Self Government in India | Core | 4 | Rural Local Self Government (Panchayati Raj), Urban Local Self Government (Municipalities), 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Functions and Powers of Local Bodies |
| POLSC 304 | International Relations – II | Core | 4 | Post-Cold War Era, Globalization, International Terrorism, Human Rights, Environment and Climate Change |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC 401 | Indian Government & Politics – II | Core | 4 | Federalism in India, State Executive, State Legislature, Party System in India, Pressure Groups and Interest Groups |
| POLSC 402 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Theories of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Institutions |
| POLSC 403 | Research Methodology in Social Sciences | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Report Writing |
| POLSC 404 | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 4 | Independent Research, Literature Review, Methodology Application, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
