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M-A-INTERNATIONAL-STUDIES in General at Symbiosis International University
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is General at Symbiosis International University Pune?
This M.A. International Studies program at Symbiosis International University focuses on developing a deep understanding of global affairs, international relations theories, and contemporary world issues. It is designed to equip students with analytical skills to navigate complex political, economic, and social dynamics. India''''s growing role on the global stage makes this program highly relevant, fostering expertise critical for diplomatic and multilateral engagements in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into diplomacy, international organizations, or strategic analysis. It also suits working professionals aiming to transition into foreign policy roles or upskill their understanding of global dynamics. Career changers with a strong interest in geopolitics and international development will find the interdisciplinary curriculum particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-centric career paths in government agencies like the Ministry of External Affairs, think tanks, international NGOs, and corporate roles involving global strategy. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10-20 lakhs. Growth trajectories include policy analyst, diplomat, foreign service officer, and international development expert, aligning with India''''s expanding global presence.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core International Relations theories and historical contexts. Actively participate in classroom discussions and utilize library resources to broaden understanding. Form study groups to critically analyze IR concepts and contemporary events, laying a solid base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
University Library, JSTOR, Foreign Policy, The Economist, Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical grounding is crucial for effective policy analysis, research, and understanding global dynamics, which are fundamental for roles in think tanks and diplomatic services.
Master Research & Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing robust academic research and writing abilities through assignments and term papers. Pay attention to citation styles (e.g., APA/Chicago) and critical analysis. Seek feedback from professors and utilize academic writing centers for improvement.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley, Grammarly, Academic Writing Workshops, Faculty Mentorship
Career Connection
Excellent research and writing are essential for preparing policy briefs, reports, and proposals in government, NGOs, and corporate strategy roles.
Cultivate Language Proficiency & Cultural Awareness- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in foreign language classes and seek opportunities for cultural immersion. Practice daily conversations and consume media in the chosen language. This enhances cross-cultural communication skills vital for international careers.
Tools & Resources
Duolingo/Babbel, Foreign language films/news, Cultural exchange programs, Language clubs
Career Connection
Proficiency in foreign languages and cultural sensitivity are highly valued in diplomatic service, international business, and global organizations, enabling effective cross-border interactions.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Internships and Field Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively seek internships at embassies, consulates, international organizations, or prominent Indian think tanks. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through field projects, gaining practical experience and networking opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services, LinkedIn, MEP (Ministry of External Affairs) Internships, UN Volunteer opportunities
Career Connection
Internships are critical for practical exposure, building a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong references, especially for roles in diplomacy and development.
Engage in Policy Debates & Model UN- (Semester 2-3)
Participate in Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, policy debate competitions, and college seminars. This hones public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills, preparing students for high-stakes international discussions.
Tools & Resources
MUN Clubs, Debate Societies, Policy Think Tank Events, Online forums for IR discussions
Career Connection
These activities develop crucial soft skills like diplomacy, negotiation, and public speaking, which are indispensable for careers in foreign service, advocacy, and international negotiations.
Develop Area-Specific Expertise- (Semester 2-3)
Choose electives strategically to build specialized knowledge in a particular region (e.g., South Asia, Middle East) or thematic area (e.g., International Security, Global Economy). Conduct in-depth research and engage with experts in these fields.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals (e.g., Asian Survey, Journal of Palestine Studies), Area studies research centers, Guest lectures by regional experts
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes graduates more attractive to organizations focusing on specific regions or policy areas, such as intelligence agencies, area desks in MEA, or regional policy consultancies.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Impactful Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Select a compelling research topic for the dissertation, aligning with global challenges or India''''s foreign policy priorities. Ensure rigorous methodology, original analysis, and clear articulation of findings, contributing meaningfully to the field.
Tools & Resources
Faculty Supervisors, Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS, R), Academic databases, Peer review
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of a subject, highly valued for advanced research roles, PhD applications, and expert positions.
Network with Industry Leaders & Alumni- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend conferences, workshops, and alumni meet-ups organized by SSIS and SIU. Build professional relationships with diplomats, academics, and policy practitioners. Leverage these connections for career guidance and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
SSIS Alumni Network, LinkedIn, Industry Conferences (e.g., Raisina Dialogue), Guest Speaker events
Career Connection
Networking is paramount for job discovery, mentorship, and gaining insights into career paths, significantly enhancing placement prospects in competitive fields like foreign service and international affairs.
Prepare Strategically for Placements & UPSC- (Semester 4)
Identify target organizations (e.g., MEA, UN, research institutions, MNCs with global operations). Tailor resumes and cover letters, and practice interview skills specifically for international roles. For UPSC aspirants, align studies with civil services exam requirements.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, UPSC coaching materials (if applicable), Mock Interviews, Current Affairs subscriptions
Career Connection
Proactive and targeted preparation ensures readiness for competitive selection processes, maximizing chances of securing desired roles in government, international organizations, or private sector global strategy units.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in any discipline with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates) from any statutory university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 040101101 | International Relations Theories | Core | 4 | Realism and Neorealism, Liberalism and Neoliberalism, Constructivism, Marxist Approaches to IR, Feminist and Postcolonial Critiques, Rational Choice and Game Theory |
| 040101102 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Historical Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India''''s Relations with Major Powers, India and its Neighborhood, Economic Diplomacy, Challenges and Future Trajectories |
| 040101103 | International Law | Core | 4 | Sources and Subjects of International Law, State Responsibility and Jurisdiction, Law of Treaties, Use of Force and Humanitarian Intervention, International Criminal Law, Dispute Settlement Mechanisms |
| 040101104 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design and Ethics, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Statistical Analysis Basics, Academic Writing and Citation, Hypothesis Formulation |
| 040101105 | Contemporary Global Issues | Core | 4 | Globalization and its Dimensions, Climate Change and Environmental Governance, Migration and Refugees, Global Terrorism, Pandemics and Global Health, Cybersecurity and Digital Governance |
| 040101106 | Foreign Language I | Core | 2 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Everyday Conversations, Cultural Context, Reading and Writing Simple Texts, Listening Comprehension, Speaking Practice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 040101201 | International Political Economy | Core | 4 | Theories of IPE, Global Trade and Finance, Multinational Corporations, Development and Underdevelopment, Global Economic Governance, North-South Divide |
| 040101202 | International Security | Core | 4 | Traditional and Non-Traditional Security, Arms Control and Disarmament, Nuclear Proliferation, Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding, Intelligence and Covert Operations, Human Security |
| 040101203 | Global Governance | Core | 4 | United Nations System, International Organizations, Role of Non-State Actors, Global Norms and Regimes, Challenges to Global Governance, Multilateralism |
| 040101204 | Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law | Core | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, International Bill of Human Rights, Protection Mechanisms, Geneva Conventions, War Crimes and Genocide, Role of ICRC |
| 040101205 | Foreign Language II | Core | 2 | Intermediate Grammar and Syntax, Complex Sentence Structures, Advanced Vocabulary, Cultural Nuances, Reading and Writing Longer Texts, Conversational Fluency |
| 040101206 | Elective 1 (from basket) | Elective | 4 | Specific topics related to chosen elective area, Analytical frameworks, Case studies, Policy implications, Regional or thematic focus, Contemporary debates |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 040101301 | Area Studies (e.g., South Asia/Middle East/East Asia/Africa) | Core | 4 | Historical Background and Political Systems, Economic Development and Challenges, Societal and Cultural Dynamics, Regional Conflicts and Cooperation, External Relations and Global Impact, Strategic Importance |
| 040101302 | Diplomacy and Statecraft | Core | 4 | Evolution of Diplomacy, Types of Diplomacy, Diplomatic Communication, Negotiation Strategies, Public and Cultural Diplomacy, Role of Diplomats and Consulates |
| 040101303 | International Organizations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Institutions, United Nations and its Organs, Regional Organizations (EU, ASEAN, AU), International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank), Role in Global Governance, Reform Challenges |
| 040101304 | Internship / Field Project | Practical/Project | 4 | Practical Application of IR Concepts, Data Collection and Analysis in real-world settings, Report Writing and Presentation, Professional Networking, Problem Solving in Organizational Contexts, Ethical Considerations in Fieldwork |
| 040101305 | Elective 2 (from basket) | Elective | 4 | Advanced concepts in chosen specialization, Policy analysis and recommendations, Emerging trends and challenges, Comparative case studies, Theoretical debates, Practical tools and techniques |
| 040101306 | Elective 3 (from basket) | Elective | 4 | In-depth study of a specific regional or thematic issue, Interdisciplinary perspectives, Critical evaluation of policies, Historical context and future outlook, Impact on global politics, Stakeholder analysis |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 040101401 | Dissertation / Research Project | Project | 8 | Independent Research Design, Literature Review and Gap Identification, Methodological Application, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Argument Formulation and Justification, Thesis Writing and Defense |
| 040101402 | Global Political Thought | Core | 4 | Western Political Thought Traditions, Postcolonial Thought, Asian and African Perspectives, Critical Theory, Ethics in International Relations, Justice and Rights in Global Context |
| 040101403 | Elective 4 (from basket) | Elective | 4 | Advanced topics in International Relations, Cross-cultural studies, Policy formulation and advocacy, Emerging challenges in diplomacy, Impact of technology on international affairs, Global leadership and ethics |
| 040101404 | Elective 5 (from basket) | Elective | 4 | Specialized regional analysis, Thematic policy debates, Interplay of economics, politics, and culture, Future trends in global studies, Innovative approaches to international problems, Sustainable development goals |
