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B-A in History Economics Political Science at The Oxford College of Arts
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History, Economics, Political Science at The Oxford College of Arts Bengaluru?
This History, Economics, Political Science program at The Oxford College of Arts focuses on providing a holistic understanding of societies, governance, and economies. Integrating critical analysis of historical developments with economic principles and political structures, the program prepares students to comprehend complex societal challenges in India and globally. It delves into the evolution of nations, policy formulation, and resource allocation, equipping students with a multidisciplinary perspective.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or academic research. It also suits individuals passionate about social sciences, current affairs, and understanding the dynamics of power, wealth, and history in India. Students with a strong aptitude for critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and written communication, who aspire to careers in public service or think-tanks, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in government administration, NGOs, research organizations, media houses, and education. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in policy advising or academia. The multidisciplinary foundation is excellent preparation for competitive exams like UPSC, KPSC, and for advanced studies in Law, Journalism, or Public Policy within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Analytical Reading Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on critically analyzing texts from History, Economics, and Political Science. Don''''t just read for information; identify arguments, evidence, and underlying assumptions. Practice summarizing complex ideas concisely.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, JSTOR (if available), NPTEL humanities lectures, News analysis (The Hindu, Indian Express), NCERT textbooks for foundational concepts
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams, policy analysis, and research roles where understanding and synthesizing vast information is key.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Discussions & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, join college debate clubs, and form study groups with peers from diverse backgrounds. Discuss how historical events influence economic policies or political structures.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Departmental seminars, Online discussion forums for social sciences, Current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, communication, and persuasive skills, crucial for roles in public relations, advocacy, and diplomacy.
Master Basic Research & Documentation- (Semester 1-2)
Learn the fundamentals of academic research, including identifying credible sources, proper citation (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), and avoiding plagiarism. Start practicing short research papers.
Tools & Resources
MLA/APA/Chicago style guides, University academic integrity workshops, Online tools like Zotero or Mendeley for bibliography management
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for any research-oriented career, higher education, and ensures academic integrity in all professional writings.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Internships with NGOs or Government Bodies- (Semester breaks after Semesters 3 and 4)
Seek out short-term internships with local NGOs, think-tanks, or even local municipal bodies to gain practical exposure to policy implementation, social work, or administrative functions.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internshala, LinkedIn, Direct outreach to organizations like PRS Legislative Research, NGOs focusing on specific social issues
Career Connection
Provides real-world experience, helps identify career interests, builds professional networks, and significantly boosts resume for placements.
Develop Quantitative & Qualitative Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond theoretical understanding, learn to interpret economic data, demographic statistics, and qualitative research findings. Understand basic statistical concepts and survey methods.
Tools & Resources
Online courses on data analysis (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL), Basic statistics software like MS Excel, Reading research papers and policy reports
Career Connection
Highly valued in policy research, market analysis, and development sector roles for evidence-based decision making.
Participate in National Level Essay/Research Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage in inter-collegiate or national-level essay writing, research paper presentations, or policy brief competitions related to history, economics, or political science.
Tools & Resources
Departments often circulate competition announcements, Specific journals or organizations host such events
Career Connection
Builds academic profile, hones research and writing skills, offers networking opportunities, and can lead to publications or recognition.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Civil Services or Specific PG Entrance Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
If aiming for civil services (UPSC, KPSC), begin focused preparation, including current affairs, general studies, and optional subjects (History, Economics, Political Science). If PG, prepare for specific university entrance exams.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (e.g., Shankar IAS, Insights IAS), Online platforms, Previous year question papers, Dedicated study groups, Mock tests
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for high-impact careers in public administration, academia, or specialized research.
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Under faculty guidance, pursue a significant research project or dissertation in a chosen area of specialization (History, Economics, or Political Science), demonstrating advanced analytical and writing skills.
Tools & Resources
Academic mentors, University research labs/centers, Access to specialized databases, Statistical software if applicable
Career Connection
Showcases deep expertise, is crucial for academic careers, and provides a strong portfolio piece for policy research or think-tank roles.
Build a Professional Network through Mentorship & Alumni- (Semester 6)
Seek out mentors from faculty, industry professionals, or successful alumni working in relevant fields. Attend alumni events and career fairs to expand your professional network.
Tools & Resources
College alumni association, LinkedIn, Career counseling services, Departmental networking events
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, provides guidance on career paths, and offers insights into industry trends and expectations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 / PUC or equivalent examination from any recognized Board/Council
Duration: 6 semesters (3 years) for Basic B.A. / 8 semesters (4 years) for B.A. Honours
Credits: 120-132 for 6 semesters Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC 2 | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis Techniques, Report Writing and Ethics |
| OE 1 | Open Elective 1 | Open Elective | 2 | Student''''s Choice from varied disciplines |
| DSC-HIS-3 | Modern Indian History | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Advent of Europeans in India, Establishment of British Rule, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement |
| DSC-ECO-3 | Public Finance | Discipline Specific Core (Economics) | 4 | Role of Government in Economy, Public Goods and Externalities, Sources of Public Revenue (Taxation), Public Expenditure and Debt, Fiscal Policy and Budgeting |
| DSC-POL-3 | Comparative Politics | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitution and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Federalism and Unitary Systems |
| VAC 3 | Yoga and Meditation | Value Added Course | 2 | Introduction to Yoga, Asanas and Pranayama, Meditation Techniques, Benefits for Physical and Mental Health, Yoga Philosophy |
| VC 3 | Web Designing | Vocational Course | 2 | Introduction to Web Technologies, HTML Fundamentals, CSS Styling, Responsive Design Principles, Basic Web Development Tools |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEC 3 | Academic Writing | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Elements of Academic Writing, Essay Structure and Argumentation, Research Paper Formatting, Referencing and Plagiarism, Critical Review Writing |
| OE 2 | Open Elective 2 | Open Elective | 2 | Student''''s Choice from varied disciplines |
| DSC-HIS-4 | World History | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | World Wars, Russian Revolution, Great Depression, Cold War and Decolonization, Formation of UNO |
| DSC-ECO-4 | Indian Economy | Discipline Specific Core (Economics) | 4 | Basic Characteristics of Indian Economy, Agriculture and Rural Development, Industrial Sector and Services Sector, Economic Reforms and Liberalization, Poverty, Inequality, and Unemployment in India |
| DSC-POL-4 | Western Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Plato: Justice and Ideal State, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Power and Statecraft, Locke: Natural Rights and Social Contract, Rousseau: General Will and Popular Sovereignty |
| VAC 4 | Disaster Management | Value Added Course | 2 | Types of Disasters, Disaster Preparedness, Mitigation and Response, Role of Government and NGOs, Community Participation |
| VC 4 | Basics of Accounting | Vocational Course | 2 | Fundamentals of Accounting, Debit and Credit Rules, Journal and Ledger, Trial Balance, Financial Statements Overview |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-HIS-5 | History of Karnataka | Major Discipline Core (History) | 4 | Early Dynasties of Karnataka, Hoysalas and Wodeyars of Mysore, Socio-Religious Movements (Basavanna), Karnataka Unification Movement, Post-Independence Karnataka |
| MDC-HIS-6 | History of India: 1757-1857 | Major Discipline Core (History) | 4 | British Expansion and Consolidation, Economic Impact of Colonialism, Administrative Structure of British India, Social and Cultural Policies, Resistance Movements before 1857 |
| DSE-HIS-1 | Social and Cultural History of India | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 4 | Caste System and Social Stratification, Family and Gender Roles, Religion and Philosophy, Art, Architecture, and Literature, Education Systems in India |
| MiDC-ECO-5 | Development Economics | Minor Discipline Core (Economics) | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Indicators of Development (HDI), Poverty, Inequality, and Malnutrition, Population and Human Capital, Role of State and Markets in Development |
| MiDC-POL-5 | International Relations | Minor Discipline Core (Political Science) | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, WTO, IMF), Global Issues (Terrorism, Environment, Human Rights), Foreign Policy Analysis |
| SEC 4 | Constitution of India & Human Rights | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and their Enforcement, Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights Institutions in India |
| OE 3 | Open Elective 3 | Open Elective | 2 | Student''''s Choice from varied disciplines |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MDC-HIS-7 | Historiography and Historical Methods | Major Discipline Core (History) | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Schools of Historical Thought, Sources of History and their Criticism, Historical Research Methodology, Ethics in History Writing |
| MDC-HIS-8 | Contemporary World (1945-2000) | Major Discipline Core (History) | 4 | Post-War Reconstruction, Cold War and Bi-polar World, Decolonization and Afro-Asian Resurgence, Collapse of Soviet Union, Globalization and New World Order |
| DSE-HIS-2 | Environmental History of India | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 4 | Historical Ecology of India, Forests and Colonialism, Water Management through Ages, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Practices in History |
| MiDC-ECO-6 | Environmental Economics | Minor Discipline Core (Economics) | 4 | Economics of Environmental Problems, Valuation of Environmental Goods, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Policies and Regulations, Climate Change Economics |
| MiDC-POL-6 | Indian Foreign Policy | Minor Discipline Core (Political Science) | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Nehruvian Era and Non-Alignment, Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), Relations with Neighbors (Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka), India''''s Role in Global Governance |
| PROJ | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 2 | Topic Selection and Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Formatting, Presentation and Viva Voce |
| OE 4 | Open Elective 4 | Open Elective | 2 | Student''''s Choice from varied disciplines |
