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BA-LIBERAL-ARTS-HONS-SSLA in Political Science at Symbiosis International University (SIU)
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?
This Political Science program at Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts (SSLA) offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, theories, and international relations within a liberal arts framework. It emphasizes critical analysis and interdisciplinary learning, preparing students for diverse roles in governance, policy, and research. The program''''s design caters to the evolving demands of the Indian public and private sectors, focusing on robust foundational knowledge and contemporary relevance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in current affairs, governance, and social issues, seeking a rigorous academic foundation. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or academia, who desire a holistic understanding of political phenomena. Students with strong analytical and communication skills, passionate about contributing to public discourse and policy-making, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, MPSC), political consulting, advocacy, journalism, and research think tanks. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience in policy roles. The interdisciplinary nature also opens avenues in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and international organizations, providing strong growth trajectories within Indian and global organizations. The robust foundation aids in further postgraduate studies in specialized fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond core political science texts, actively read across disciplines like sociology, economics, and history. Utilize the SSLA library and online resources to explore varied perspectives. This broadens your understanding of political issues and prepares you for complex analyses.
Tools & Resources
SSLA Library resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Reputable news analyses (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
Develops a holistic worldview crucial for civil services, policy analysis, and journalism, enabling you to connect diverse issues.
Master Academic Research and Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong academic writing skills through essay assignments and research papers. Seek feedback from professors, attend writing workshops, and learn proper citation techniques. This is foundational for all higher academic and professional work.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Grammarly, SSLA Writing Centre support (if available)
Career Connection
Essential for producing clear policy briefs, research reports, and articulate communication in any professional setting.
Engage in Current Affairs Discussions and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, join college debate clubs, and follow national and international news. Form study groups to discuss contemporary political events and their theoretical underpinnings. This enhances critical thinking and articulation.
Tools & Resources
Newspapers (Print/Digital), News channels (Rajya Sabha TV/DD News), College debate societies
Career Connection
Sharpens analytical and communication skills vital for interviews, group discussions, and roles in media, policy, and diplomacy.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Electives Aligned with Career Interests- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose open electives that complement your Political Science specialization, such as psychology for understanding political behavior, or economics for policy formulation. This deepens your expertise and creates a unique academic profile.
Tools & Resources
SSLA academic advisors, Career counseling sessions, Program handbook for elective options
Career Connection
Builds specialized knowledge and skills that differentiate you in the job market for specific roles like political consulting or international development.
Undertake Research Projects and Paper Presentations- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with faculty on research projects or develop independent research papers. Present your findings at college seminars or inter-college conferences. This builds a strong research portfolio and hones presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, Access to academic databases, Conference announcements
Career Connection
Prepares you for postgraduate research, think tank roles, and demonstrates analytical rigor to potential employers, especially for civil services.
Seek Early Internship and Field Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities with NGOs, government bodies, or political campaigns during semester breaks. This provides practical experience, networking opportunities, and helps clarify career paths.
Tools & Resources
SSLA Placement Cell, Internshala, LinkedIn, NGO websites in Pune/Delhi
Career Connection
Gains real-world experience, builds professional networks, and strengthens your CV for placements and higher studies.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Civil Services/Postgraduate Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
If aiming for civil services, integrate preparation into your academic schedule. Utilize university resources, form study groups for optional subjects, and practice mock tests. For postgraduate studies, focus on refining your research proposal and SOPs.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/GRE/TOEFL study materials, Coaching institutes (if opted), Alumni network for guidance
Career Connection
Directly supports entry into highly competitive government roles or admission to prestigious national and international universities for advanced degrees.
Develop a Strong Dissertation/Research Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Focus intensely on your final year dissertation, choosing a topic that aligns with your specialization and career aspirations. Aim for a publication-quality paper, demonstrating your expertise and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated faculty supervisor, Advanced research software (if applicable), Academic journals for reference
Career Connection
Showcases your advanced research skills and in-depth knowledge, crucial for academic careers, policy analysis, and think tank positions.
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Semester 6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and network with faculty, alumni, and professionals in your field. Create a professional online presence (e.g., LinkedIn) highlighting your academic achievements, research, and skills. Participate in social outreach programs to demonstrate leadership.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences/webinars, SSLA Alumni Association
Career Connection
Facilitates job search, mentorship opportunities, and professional growth in a competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 50% marks (45% for SC/ST candidates) from a recognized board. Performance in the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) and Personal Interview (PI) & Written Ability Test (WAT).
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters
Credits: 168-180 (Estimated based on typical Hons program structure) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LA101 | Introduction to Liberal Arts | Core | 4 | Understanding Liberal Arts Education, Interdisciplinary Approaches, Critical Thinking Skills, Knowledge Systems, Ethical Reasoning |
| ACW101 | Academic Writing and Research | Core | 4 | Elements of Academic Writing, Research Methodologies, Citation and Referencing, Argumentation and Analysis, Essay Structure |
| PS101 | Introduction to Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Key Political Concepts (State, Power, Sovereignty), Political Ideologies (Liberalism, Socialism), Forms of Government, Political Systems |
| ECO101 | Fundamentals of Economics | Core (Introductory) | 4 | Microeconomics Principles, Macroeconomics Concepts, Supply and Demand, Market Structures, Economic Policies |
| FL101 | Foreign Language I (e.g., French/German/Spanish) | Elective | 3 | Basic Grammar, Vocabulary Building, Everyday Conversations, Cultural Aspects, Reading and Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CRIT102 | Critical Reasoning and Logic | Core | 4 | Logic and Argumentation, Fallacies in Reasoning, Inductive and Deductive Logic, Problem-Solving Techniques, Analytical Skills |
| SS202 | Sociological Perspectives | Core (Introductory) | 4 | Foundations of Sociology, Social Institutions, Culture and Society, Social Stratification, Globalization and Society |
| PS202 | Indian Government and Politics | Core (Political Science) | 4 | Indian Constitution, Union and State Legislatures, Executive and Judiciary, Electoral System, Political Parties and Pressure Groups |
| HUM202 | Humanities Elective (e.g., Literature/History/Philosophy) | Elective | 4 | Selected Literary Works/Historical Periods, Philosophical Concepts, Art and Culture, Interpretation and Analysis, Contextual Understanding |
| FL202 | Foreign Language II | Elective | 3 | Intermediate Grammar, Expanded Vocabulary, Conversational Fluency, Cultural Immersion, Writing Short Texts |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS301 | Western Political Thought | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, Mill and Marx, Contemporary Thinkers |
| IR301 | International Relations and Global Politics | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Theories of International Relations, State and Non-State Actors, International Security, Global Governance, Contemporary Global Challenges |
| POLS302 | Comparative Politics | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems and Regimes, Electoral Systems, Party Systems, Political Development |
| RESM303 | Research Methodology for Social Sciences | Skill Enhancement | 4 | Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling Methods, Data Analysis (Basic Statistics), Report Writing |
| OPEN304 | Open Elective I | Elective | 3 | Topics based on chosen elective (e.g., Marketing, Psychology, Digital Media), Interdisciplinary skills, Diverse knowledge acquisition, Personal interest exploration, Skill diversification |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS401 | Indian Political Thought | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Dharma), Medieval Thinkers, Modern Indian Political Thought (Gandhi, Ambedkar), Jawaharlal Nehru and Tagore, Contemporary Debates |
| PADMIN402 | Public Administration | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy and Governance, Public Policy, Ethics in Public Administration |
| POLS403 | Political Sociology | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | State, Society and Power, Social Movements, Identity Politics, Democracy and Civil Society, Political Culture |
| ENV404 | Environmental Politics | Elective (Political Science) | 3 | Environmental Movements, Climate Change Governance, International Environmental Regimes, Sustainable Development, Environmental Justice |
| OPEN405 | Open Elective II | Elective | 3 | Topics based on chosen elective (e.g., Digital Humanities, Entrepreneurship, Film Studies), Cross-disciplinary learning, Skill augmentation, Creative exploration, Broader perspectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS501 | Human Rights and International Law | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, International Human Rights Instruments, Human Rights in India, International Criminal Justice, Challenges to Human Rights |
| POLS502 | Geopolitics and Strategic Studies | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Classical Geopolitics, Contemporary Geopolitical Challenges, Military Strategy and Warfare, Nuclear Proliferation, Regional Security Dynamics |
| PS503 | Area Studies (e.g., South Asian Politics/West Asian Politics) | Elective (Political Science) | 4 | Political Systems of a specific region, Historical Context, Regional Conflicts and Cooperation, Socio-Economic Dynamics, External Influences |
| INT504 | Internship/Field Project | Project | 6 | Practical Application of Knowledge, Industry Exposure, Report Writing, Data Collection and Analysis, Problem Solving |
| AUD505 | Audit Course (Non-Credit) | Audit | 0 | Value Added Skill, Personal Development, Hobby Pursuits, Cultural Understanding, Community Engagement |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIS601 | Dissertation/Research Project | Project | 8 | Independent Research Design, Literature Review, Methodology Implementation, Data Interpretation, Academic Thesis Writing and Presentation |
| POLS602 | Political Economy | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Relationship between Politics and Economy, Theories of Political Economy, Development Models, Global Economic Institutions, Challenges of Economic Governance |
| THINK603 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core (Political Science Specialization) | 4 | Postmodernism and Post-structuralism, Critical Theory, Feminist Political Thought, Multiculturalism, Theories of Justice |
| ELEC604 | Specialization Elective (e.g., Conflict Resolution/Diaspora Studies) | Elective (Political Science) | 4 | In-depth study of a niche area in Political Science, Advanced theoretical frameworks, Case study analysis, Policy implications, Current events and relevance |
