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M-A in Political Science at The University of Burdwan
Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at The University of Burdwan Purba Bardhaman?
This M.A. Political Science program at The University of Burdwan focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and processes, with a strong emphasis on Indian politics and international relations. It delves into advanced political thought, public administration, and research methodologies. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills relevant to governance, public policy, and socio-political analysis in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Political Science, History, Economics, or Sociology, seeking entry into public service, research, or academia. It also benefits working professionals aiming to upskill for roles in policy analysis, advocacy, or teaching. Aspiring civil servants and those interested in contributing to India''''s policy landscape will find the curriculum particularly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government services (UPSC/PSC exams), NGOs, think tanks, media, and academic institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The analytical and research skills developed are highly valued across various sectors, aligning with roles in policy advocacy and social research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on deeply understanding foundational political theories, thinkers, and concepts covered in Advanced Political Theory, Western Political Thought, and Indian Political Thought. Create detailed notes, participate actively in class discussions, and engage in peer study groups to clarify complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, online academic journals (JSTOR, Sage Journals), Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, dedicated study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in policy research, academic writing, and for successfully tackling theoretical questions in competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services.
Develop Robust Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course. Practice formulating research questions, designing basic surveys or interview schedules, and critically analyzing data. Explore different quantitative and qualitative research approaches using case studies relevant to Indian politics.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic data analysis, Nvivo for qualitative analysis (explore open-source alternatives), academic writing guides, library workshops on research tools
Career Connection
Essential for roles in think tanks, NGOs, market research, and any position requiring evidence-based decision making or policy evaluation.
Engage with Indian Political Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement classroom learning on Indian Government and Politics by regularly following national and state-level political news, reading credible political commentaries, and analyzing policy debates. Participate in departmental seminars and debates on contemporary Indian political issues.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), current affairs magazines (Frontline), Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV, expert panel discussions
Career Connection
Provides practical context for theoretical knowledge, crucial for civil services, journalism, policy advocacy, and understanding the dynamics of governance in India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives & Projects- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose elective papers in Semester 3 based on your career interests (e.g., State Politics, Human Rights, Foreign Policy). Dedicate significant effort to the Project Work/Dissertation/Internship, using it as an opportunity to delve deep into a chosen area and apply research skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors for project guidance, specialized books and journals related to chosen electives, institutional connections for internship opportunities
Career Connection
Specialization enhances expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for specific roles in academia, government, or NGOs requiring focused knowledge. Project work builds a portfolio.
Enhance Comparative Analysis Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in discussions and assignments related to Comparative Politics. Analyze political systems and policies across different countries, drawing parallels and contrasts with the Indian context. Attend workshops or seminars on global political trends.
Tools & Resources
Comparative Politics textbooks, country-specific policy reports, international news analysis (e.g., The Economist, Foreign Affairs), online courses on global governance
Career Connection
Critical for roles in international organizations, diplomatic services, global policy analysis, and any field requiring cross-cultural political understanding.
Network with Academic and Policy Experts- (Semester 3)
Attend university-organized seminars, workshops, and guest lectures featuring scholars, policymakers, and civil society leaders. Actively engage in Q&A sessions and seek opportunities to interact with speakers. Utilize these interactions to gain insights and build professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, university event calendars, LinkedIn for connecting with speakers, academic conferences (if applicable)
Career Connection
Building a network can open doors to research collaborations, internship opportunities, mentorship, and career advice, especially valuable in the Indian academic and policy circles.
Advanced Stage
Master Public Policy Analysis- (Semester 4)
Engage deeply with the Public Policy Analysis paper, understanding the complete policy cycle from formulation to evaluation. Work on case studies of Indian public policies, critically assessing their effectiveness and societal impact.
Tools & Resources
Public policy journals, government reports (NITI Aayog, various ministries), policy briefs from Indian think tanks, case study analysis frameworks
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles in government policy departments, public sector undertakings, NGOs, and consultancies involved in policy formulation and implementation in India.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4)
Start dedicated preparation for civil services (UPSC/PSC) and UGC NET examinations. Integrate syllabus topics with exam patterns, solve previous year''''s papers, and consider joining relevant coaching or study circles for focused preparation.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, prescribed textbooks for competitive exams, online test series, study groups focused on specific exams, coaching institutes
Career Connection
Directly aims at securing prestigious positions in Indian bureaucracy, public administration, or academic teaching and research, offering stable and impactful career paths.
Refine Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in the Comprehensive Viva Voce by preparing thoroughly on all core and elective subjects. Practice articulating complex political concepts clearly and concisely. Seek feedback on presentation skills from faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, public speaking workshops, presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are essential for almost all professional roles, including public speaking, academic presentations, policy advocacy, and interview performance, crucial for career advancement in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed three-year B.A. (Hons.)/Special Hons. in Political Science or five-year integrated B.A. (Hons.) M.A. in Political Science, or equivalent examinations from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 101 | Advanced Political Theory-I | Core | 4 | Approaches to Political Analysis, State and Sovereignty, Theories of Justice, Liberty and Equality, Rights |
| Paper 102 | Advanced Political Theory-II | Core | 4 | Power and Authority, Democracy, Citizenship, Civil Society, Feminism |
| Paper 103 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development, Federalism in India, Union and State Executive, Judiciary in India, Political Parties and Electoral Politics |
| Paper 104 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy, Development Administration, Public Policy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau |
| Paper 202 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Rammohan Roy, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Swami Vivekananda, Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, Jawaharlal Nehru |
| Paper 203 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Non-Alignment Movement, International Organizations (UN), Globalisation |
| Paper 204 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Scientific Method in Social Sciences, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 301 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems and Regimes, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems |
| Paper 302 | State Politics in India | Elective | 4 | Nature of Indian Federalism, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, State-Level Political Parties, Coalition Politics in States, Local Self-Government |
| Paper 303 | Foreign Policy of India | Elective | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Policy, India and Major Global Powers, India and SAARC, Look East/Act East Policy |
| Paper 304 | Project Work / Dissertation / Internship | Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing, Viva Voce |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 401 | Public Policy Analysis | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Policy, Models of Policy Making, Policy Formulation and Implementation, Policy Evaluation, Case Studies of Indian Policies |
| Paper 402 | Local Self Government in India | Elective | 4 | Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Decentralization and Grassroots Democracy, Financial Administration of Local Bodies, Challenges and Reforms |
| Paper 403 | Conflict and Peace Studies | Elective | 4 | Theories of Conflict, Types of Conflict (Intrastate, Interstate), Conflict Resolution Mechanisms, Peacebuilding and Reconciliation, Disarmament and Arms Control |
| Paper 404 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Project | 4 | Overall knowledge of Political Science concepts, Understanding of Research Methodology, Current national and international affairs, Analytical and critical thinking skills, Communication and presentation abilities |
