.png&w=1920&q=75)
BA in Political Science at T.S. Paul Manipur Women's College
Imphal West, Manipur
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at T.S. Paul Manipur Women's College Imphal West?
This Political Science program at T.S. Paul Manipur Women''''s College, affiliated with Manipur University, offers a comprehensive study of political systems, theories, and governance. It aims to equip students with a deep understanding of local, national, and international political dynamics, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. The program is vital in understanding India''''s diverse democratic landscape and its evolving role in global affairs, addressing the demand for informed citizens and skilled professionals in public service and policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in civics, public affairs, and social justice, seeking entry into public administration, journalism, law, or academic research. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding governance and policy-making in the Indian context, including aspiring civil servants and those aiming for roles in NGOs or advocacy. A strong reading habit and analytical aptitude are beneficial prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles in the civil services (UPSC, MPSC), policy research, journalism, political consultancy, and social work. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals, especially in government and policy domains. The analytical and communication skills developed align with various professional certifications in governance and public policy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories and concepts introduced in the initial semesters. Use textbooks, online lecture series, and academic journals to deepen your knowledge beyond classroom teaching. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas and different perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Key textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), NPTEL Political Science courses, Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) publications
Career Connection
A solid conceptual base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, and for further academic research in Political Science.
Enhance Communication and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in debates, essay writing competitions, and presentations. Practice clear and concise communication. Begin developing basic research skills by exploring relevant articles and policy documents. Utilize the college library and online academic databases.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly for writing refinement, JSTOR and ResearchGate for academic articles, College library physical and digital resources
Career Connection
Strong communication and research are vital for any profession, especially in public relations, journalism, policy analysis, and civil services.
Engage with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news from credible sources. Connect theoretical concepts learned in class with real-world political developments in India and globally. Maintain a current affairs notebook or digital log for important events and policies.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu newspaper, Indian Express newspaper, PRS Legislative Research website, Rajya Sabha TV/Lok Sabha TV
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams, informed citizenship, and careers in journalism, policy analysis, and strategic communication.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Indian Political Systems and Thought- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on understanding India''''s unique political system, its history, and the contributions of Indian political thinkers. Engage with case studies of governance, policy implementation, and social movements in India. Consider joining college clubs related to current affairs or public policy.
Tools & Resources
Constitution of India, Publications by Indian think tanks (e.g., Observer Research Foundation, Centre for Policy Research), Biographies of Indian political leaders
Career Connection
Direct relevance for UPSC and State PSC exams, roles in government agencies, and positions requiring expertise in Indian governance.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Leverage generic elective courses (Economics, History, Sociology) to build an interdisciplinary understanding of political issues. Understand how economic factors, historical contexts, and social structures influence political outcomes. This broadens your analytical perspective.
Tools & Resources
Cross-disciplinary academic journals, MOOCs on related subjects (e.g., from Coursera, edX), Books on Indian economy, history, and society
Career Connection
Develops a holistic approach, highly valued in policy analysis, international relations, and development sector jobs.
Seek Practical Exposure through Internships/Volunteering- (Semester 3-5)
Look for opportunities to intern with local NGOs, political campaigns, local government bodies, or legislative assembly members. Volunteer for social causes to understand ground-level challenges and policy impacts, gaining hands-on experience in public affairs.
Tools & Resources
Internshala platform for internships, Local NGO websites, College career cell for local opportunities, Official government websites for relevant departments
Career Connection
Provides real-world experience, builds professional networks, and can be a stepping stone for future employment or higher studies.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Research- (Semester 5-6)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) strategically based on your career interests (e.g., International Relations, Public Policy, Feminism). Undertake a capstone project or a research paper on a topic of your choice to demonstrate in-depth knowledge and analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic databases (e.g., ProQuest, EBSCOhost), Statistical software (if applicable to research), Mentorship from faculty advisors
Career Connection
Builds expertise in a chosen sub-field, making you more attractive to specific employers or for specialized postgraduate studies.
Prepare for Competitive Exams and Further Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Begin intensive preparation for civil services exams (UPSC, State PSCs), law entrance exams, or postgraduate admissions. Focus on practicing previous year''''s papers, mock tests, and interview preparation. Attend workshops or coaching if necessary to refine your strategies.
Tools & Resources
Online coaching platforms (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s for UPSC), Study guides and previous year''''s question papers, University prospectus for PG admissions, College career counseling services
Career Connection
Directly targets entry into prestigious government services, legal professions, or advanced academic careers.
Network and Career Planning- (Semester 5-6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to network with faculty, alumni, and professionals in the field. Utilize the college''''s alumni network for insights and connections. Refine your resume and practice interview skills, focusing on articulating your political science knowledge and skills effectively for various roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, College alumni association platforms, Career guidance cells for resume and interview workshops, Professional networking events and conferences
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and insights into various career paths within political science and related fields.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core Course | 6 | What is Political Theory?, Approaches to Political Theory, Concept of Liberty, Concept of Equality, Concept of Justice, Rights, Power and Authority |
| AECC 1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Introduction to Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and the Environment, Field Work |
| GE 1 | Generic Elective - I (e.g., Public Administration) | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration, Principles of Organisation, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Good Governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 2 | Political Theory-Concepts and Debates | Core Course | 6 | Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism, Nationalism |
| AECC 2 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Language and Communication, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Listening and Speaking Skills |
| GE 2 | Generic Elective - II (e.g., History of India - I) | Generic Elective | 6 | Interpreting Early Indian History, Sources, Early Food Producing Societies, The Harappan Civilization, The Vedic and Post-Vedic Periods, The rise of Mahajanapadas |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 3 | Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Core Course | 6 | Introduction to Comparative Politics, Approaches to Studying Comparative Politics, State, Regimes, Constitutions, Electoral Systems, Parties and Party Systems |
| CC 4 | Perspectives on International Relations and World History | Core Course | 6 | Understanding International Relations, Theoretical Perspectives, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations, International Political Economy |
| CC 5 | Perspectives on Public Administration | Core Course | 6 | Public Administration as a Discipline, Theories of Administration, Approaches to Public Administration, Bureaucracy, Development Administration, Public Policy |
| SEC 1 | Skill Enhancement Course - I (e.g., Understanding Gandhi) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Gandhi''''s Early Life and Education, Satyagraha, Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements, Gandhi''''s Social and Economic Thought, Critique of Modern Civilization, Relevance of Gandhi |
| GE 3 | Generic Elective - III (e.g., Principles of Microeconomics) | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to Economics, Consumer Behavior, Theory of Production, Market Structures, Factor Pricing, Welfare Economics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 6 | Indian Political Thought-I | Core Course | 6 | Traditions of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Kautilya, Dharma, Brahmanical Tradition, Islamic Political Thought, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Jyotiba Phule |
| CC 7 | Global Politics | Core Course | 6 | Globalization, Global Actors, Global Inequalities, Global Environmental Issues, Global Security, Human Rights, International Law |
| CC 8 | Introduction to Political Sociology | Core Course | 6 | Political Sociology: Nature and Scope, Power and Authority, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Elites, Class, State and Society |
| SEC 2 | Skill Enhancement Course - II (e.g., Human Rights: Theory and Practice) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, International Human Rights Law, Human Rights Institutions, Challenges to Human Rights |
| GE 4 | Generic Elective - IV (e.g., Introduction to Sociology) | Generic Elective | 6 | Basic Concepts of Sociology, Social Institutions, Culture and Society, Socialization, Social Stratification, Social Change |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 9 | Indian Political Thought-II | Core Course | 6 | Gandhi, Nehru, Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, Deendayal Upadhyaya |
| CC 10 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core Course | 6 | Plato, Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau |
| DSE 1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (e.g., Indian Foreign Policy) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Evolution of Indian Foreign Policy, Determinants of Foreign Policy, India and Major Powers, India and its Neighbors, India and Multilateral Institutions, Contemporary Challenges |
| DSE 2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (e.g., Public Policy in India) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Concept and Models of Public Policy, Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation, Policy Evaluation, Social Welfare Policies, Economic Policies |
| SEC 3 | Skill Enhancement Course - III (e.g., Conflict and Peace Building) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Understanding Conflict, Sources of Conflict, Conflict Resolution, Peacebuilding Approaches, Role of International Organizations, Case Studies |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 11 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core Course | 6 | Jeremy Bentham, John Stuart Mill, G.W.F. Hegel, Karl Marx, Hannah Arendt, John Rawls |
| CC 12 | Modern Political Thought in India | Core Course | 6 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay, Swami Vivekananda, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, M.K. Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar |
| DSE 3 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (e.g., Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Understanding Development, Development Strategies in India, Social Movements, Environmental Movements, Women''''s Movements, Dalit Movements |
| DSE 4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (e.g., Feminism: Theory and Practice) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | What is Feminism?, Liberal Feminism, Radical Feminism, Marxist Feminism, Postmodern Feminism, Feminist Movements in India |
| SEC 4 | Skill Enhancement Course - IV (e.g., Legislative Support) | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Role of Legislature, Legislative Process, Drafting Bills, Research for Legislators, Parliamentary Procedures, Citizen Engagement |
