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M-A in Political Science at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur
East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur East Singhbhum?
This M.A. Political Science program at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and global dynamics. It integrates Western and Indian political thought, public administration, and international relations, highly relevant in India''''s complex democratic landscape. The program''''s design caters to the evolving demands for informed political analysts and public administrators.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science or related social sciences seeking entry into public service or research. It also suits working professionals, including educators and civil service aspirants, looking to deepen their analytical skills in governance and policy-making within the Indian context. Candidates with a keen interest in current affairs, historical political thought, and societal structures will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in government (UPSC/JPSC exams), academia, NGOs, and think tanks across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8-15 LPA. The program equips students with critical thinking and research skills, preparing them for roles in policy analysis, public administration, and political journalism, fostering significant growth trajectories in Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories & Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong foundation in classical and contemporary political thought, including Western and Indian philosophies. Focus on understanding key concepts like state, power, liberty, and justice. Actively participate in classroom discussions and debates to articulate theoretical perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), Online academic journals (JSTOR), Kolhan University library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for understanding policy frameworks, public discourse, and for success in civil services examinations (UPSC, JPSC) where theoretical clarity is paramount.
Develop Strong Research & Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate the ability to critically analyze academic texts, synthesize information, and present arguments coherently in written assignments and essays. Focus on proper citation, structuring arguments, and developing a unique analytical voice. Attend university workshops on academic writing.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Academic style guides (APA/MLA), Online tutorials on research methods, Reference management software (Zotero/Mendeley)
Career Connection
Crucial for roles in research, policy analysis, journalism, and for pursuing further academic studies (Ph.D.), ensuring professional communication effectiveness.
Engage with Current Affairs & Public Discourse- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read national newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines (e.g., Frontline, Economic and Political Weekly), and reputable online news sources. Participate in college-level debates, seminars, and guest lectures to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world political events and policy discussions.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian news portals, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV discussions, Official government reports, University debate clubs
Career Connection
Builds awareness vital for civil services, media, think tanks, and NGOs, enhancing understanding of practical governance challenges and policy implementation in India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives & Case Studies- (Semester 3)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) strategically in areas like Electoral Politics, Indian Foreign Policy, or State Politics, aligning with career interests. Conduct in-depth case studies on contemporary political issues in India, applying theoretical frameworks to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials, Government policy documents, National archives, Academic articles focusing on specific Indian political phenomena
Career Connection
Develops specialized knowledge and analytical skills, highly valued in think tanks, research organizations, and political consulting roles focusing on Indian political dynamics.
Network with Professionals & Academia- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, conferences, and workshops related to Political Science, governance, and public policy, both within and outside the university. Engage with guest speakers, faculty members, and alumni working in relevant fields to gain insights and explore potential mentorship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services events, Academic conference calendars, Professional associations in public administration or political science
Career Connection
Builds a professional network that can open doors to internships, research collaborations, and job opportunities in diverse sectors like public service, NGOs, and academia.
Participate in Academic Competitions & Presentations- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in essay competitions, quiz contests, and paper presentations at inter-college or university-level events. This hones presentation skills, encourages deeper research, and builds confidence in articulating complex political ideas in a competitive environment.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, University cultural/academic calendars, Online platforms for academic competitions
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and competitive readiness, valuable for roles requiring strong communication and persuasive abilities, including civil services interviews.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Select a relevant and challenging research topic for the dissertation, conducting thorough literature review, data collection (if applicable), analysis, and report writing under faculty guidance. This serves as a capstone project showcasing in-depth understanding and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (e.g., J-Gate, Shodhganga), Statistical software (if quantitative research), Primary data sources, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Essential for demonstrating independent research ability, critical for higher studies (Ph.D.) and research-oriented roles in academia, think tanks, and policy analysis.
Intensive Competitive Exam & Interview Preparation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to focused preparation for competitive examinations, particularly for the Mains stage of UPSC/JPSC, leveraging the strong foundation in Political Science. Engage in mock interviews, group discussions, and aptitude tests to refine soft skills and enhance performance.
Tools & Resources
Mock interview panels, Online coaching platforms, Current affairs capsules, UPSC/JPSC official websites
Career Connection
Directly targets high-stakes government positions, public sector roles, and leadership opportunities, maximizing chances of securing prestigious placements post-graduation.
Develop Professional Portfolio & Career Mapping- (Semester 4)
Compile a strong professional portfolio including dissertation abstract, research papers, certificates, and achievements. Actively engage with the college''''s placement cell for job search, resume building, and interview skills workshops. Explore higher education options and application processes.
Tools & Resources
Resume builders, LinkedIn profile optimization guides, University placement cell, Career counselors, Postgraduate admissions portals
Career Connection
Ensures readiness for the job market or higher education, providing a clear career trajectory and the necessary tools for successful transition into the professional world or further academic pursuits.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-1 | Political Theory – I (Western Political Thought) | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Morality and Politics, Hobbes: Social Contract, Absolute Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| CC-2 | Political Theory – II (Modern Political Analysis) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Traditional and Modern Approaches, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political System: Features, Functions, Democracy: Theories, Challenges, Rights and Justice |
| CC-3 | Indian Political Thought – I (Ancient & Medieval) | Core | 4 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Manusmriti: Social Order, Dharma, Sukra: State, Administration, Agrarian-Urban Transformation, Bhakti Movement: Political Impact |
| CC-4 | Public Administration – I (Principles of Public Administration) | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Public and Private Administration, Approaches to Public Administration, Administrative Behaviour: Decision-making, Leadership, Bureaucracy: Theories, Role, Control over Administration |
| CC-5 | International Relations – I (Theory of International Relations) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Realism: Classical, Neo-realism, Liberalism: Neo-liberalism, International Institutions, Marxism: Dependency Theory, Feminist Perspective on IR, Post-structuralism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-6 | Political Theory – III (Contemporary Political Theory) | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Neo-liberalism, Communitarian Critique, Communitarianism: Key Thinkers, Multiculturalism: Identity Politics, Post-modernism: Foucault, Derrida, Environmentalism: Green Political Theory, Feminism: Varieties, Impact |
| CC-7 | Indian Political Thought – II (Modern Indian Political Thought) | Core | 4 | Rammohan Roy: Social Reform, Modernity, Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Non-violence, Nehru: Socialism, Secularism, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Dalit Emancipation, Savarkar: Hindutva, Tagore: Nationalism, Universalism |
| CC-8 | Public Administration – II (Indian Administration) | Core | 4 | Constitutional Framework of Indian Administration, Central Administration: Cabinet, PMO, State Administration: Secretariat, Chief Secretary, District Administration: DM, SP, Public Sector Undertakings: Role, Reforms, Local Government: Panchayati Raj, Urban Bodies |
| CC-9 | International Relations – II (Global Politics) | Core | 4 | Cold War: Origins, Phases, End, Post-Cold War Era: Unipolarity, Multipolarity, Globalisation: Economic, Political, Cultural Impacts, International Terrorism, Environment and Climate Change, Human Security |
| CC-10 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Observation, Sampling: Types, Techniques, Data Analysis: Qualitative, Quantitative, Report Writing: Structure, Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-11 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Culture and Socialization, Political Development and Modernization, Regimes: Democratic, Authoritarian, Federalism: Types, Functions |
| CC-12 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission, Women''''s Rights, Children''''s Rights, Challenges to Human Rights |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option A: Electoral Politics in India | Elective | 4 | Electoral System in India, Voting Behaviour, Political Parties and Party System, Coalition Politics, Election Commission of India, Electoral Reforms |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option B: Indian Foreign Policy | Elective | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India and its Neighbors, India and Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India''''s Role in UN, Economic Diplomacy |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option A: State Politics in India | Elective | 4 | Nature of State Politics, Regional Parties, Centre-State Relations, Political Economy of States, Caste, Religion, Language in State Politics, Leadership in States |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option B: Political Sociology | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Socialization, Elites and Power, Pressure Groups and Interest Groups, Social Movements, Democracy and Civil Society |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option A: India and the World | Elective | 4 | India’s Role in United Nations, India and Non-Aligned Movement, India and SAARC, ASEAN, India and BRICS, G-20, India’s Soft Power, Challenges to India''''s Foreign Policy |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option B: Decentralized Planning & Development | Elective | 4 | Concept of Decentralized Planning, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Grassroots Planning and Development, Role of NGOs, Challenges of Decentralization |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-14 | Gender and Politics | Core | 4 | Patriarchy and Gender Roles, Feminist Theories: Liberal, Radical, Marxist, Women in Indian Politics, Gender Justice and Law in India, Gender and Development, Gender and Public Policy |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option A: Good Governance | Elective | 4 | Concept of Good Governance, E-governance and Digital Initiatives, Right to Information Act, Citizen''''s Charter, Lokpal and Lokayukta, Accountability and Transparency |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option B: Conflict and Peace Studies | Elective | 4 | Causes and Dynamics of Conflict, Conflict Resolution Mechanisms, Peacebuilding and Reconciliation, Disarmament and Arms Control, Ethnic and Identity Conflicts, Role of International Organizations |
| DSE-5 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option A: Social Movements in India | Elective | 4 | Theories of Social Movements, Peasant and Agrarian Movements, Workers'''' Movements and Trade Unions, Environmental Movements (Chipko, Narmada), Women''''s Movements, Dalit Movements, New Social Movements |
| DSE-5 | Discipline Specific Elective - Option B: Political Economy of India | Elective | 4 | Economic Development in India, Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization (LPG), Agrarian Crisis and Rural Development, Industrial Policy and Labor, Poverty and Inequality, Role of State in Economy |
| PROJECT | Project / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Research Methodology and Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Preparation |
