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MA in Political Science at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This Political Science program at University of Calicut focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and processes, with a strong emphasis on Indian political thought and contemporary global issues. The curriculum is designed to foster critical analytical skills, research aptitude, and an in-depth perspective on governance, international relations, and public policy, reflecting the dynamic political landscape in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, humanities, or law seeking to delve deeper into political analysis and research. It also caters to aspiring civil servants, journalists, policy analysts, and academicians keen on understanding the complexities of Indian democracy and global political dynamics, offering a robust foundation for advanced studies or public service careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in government (UPSC/Kerala PSC), NGOs, think tanks, media, and academic institutions in India. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in policy research or public service roles. The program also prepares students for UGC NET/JRF, enabling careers in teaching and advanced research in Indian universities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a deep understanding of ancient, medieval, and modern Indian political thought, along with core Western political ideologies and theories. Focus on comparative analysis of thinkers and concepts.
Tools & Resources
University Library (physical & digital resources), JSTOR, Project Gutenberg for classic texts, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for building a strong base for competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC (Political Science optional) and for analytical roles in research or policy.
Cultivate Strong Research & Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in developing academic research skills, including literature review, critical analysis, structured essay writing, and proper citation. Practice writing concise and persuasive arguments.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Grammarly, Workshops on research methodology
Career Connection
Crucial for success in dissertation, academic publishing, policy brief writing, and analytical positions in NGOs, think tanks, or government.
Engage with Current Affairs and Policy Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news, political developments, and policy discussions. Connect theoretical knowledge from coursework to real-world events.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), News magazines (EPW), Government policy documents, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Indispensable for civil service aspirants, journalists, policy analysts, and for contributing meaningfully to public discourse.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake an impactful Internship/Project- (Semester 3)
Seek out internships with NGOs, government departments (e.g., local governance bodies, district administration), research organizations, or political parties to gain practical exposure. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, LinkedIn, NGO/government websites for internship opportunities, Networking with faculty and alumni
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, strengthens resume for placements, helps in career exploration, and builds professional networks.
Specialize through Elective Choices & Advanced Reading- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully select elective courses that align with specific career interests (e.g., Public Policy, International Relations, Human Rights, Gender Studies). Complement coursework with advanced readings and academic papers in chosen areas.
Tools & Resources
Recommended reading lists from faculty, Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Research databases, Online courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera)
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a niche area, making candidates more competitive for specialized roles in policy, advocacy, or research.
Participate in Debates, Seminars & Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, college debates, political science conferences, and workshops. Present research ideas, engage in critical discussions, and develop public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, Department emails, Academic event calendars, Student clubs/associations
Career Connection
Enhances communication skills, critical thinking, networking with peers and academics, and visibility for future academic or professional opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Rigorous Dissertation Project- (Semester 4)
Conduct in-depth independent research for the dissertation, focusing on a contemporary political issue with societal relevance. Master data collection, analysis, and academic writing to produce a high-quality thesis.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Statistical software (e.g., Excel for quantitative data), Academic databases, Survey tools, interview techniques
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, a key skill for academic careers, policy analysis, and think tanks. A strong dissertation can be a portfolio piece.
Comprehensive Preparation for Competitive Exams/Placements- (Semester 4)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, UGC NET/JRF, or state public service commissions. Tailor study plans to job market demands for roles in policy, research, or development.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Mock tests, Career counseling from the university, Networking with alumni in desired fields
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for common career paths chosen by MA Political Science graduates in India, maximizing chances of securing desirable positions.
Build a Professional Network & Personal Brand- (Semester 3-4 (ongoing))
Actively network with professors, guest lecturers, alumni, and professionals in political science, public administration, and related fields. Develop a professional online presence (e.g., LinkedIn) to showcase expertise and interests.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic conferences, Alumni events, Professional associations, Department''''s guest lecture series
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, collaborations, and stays abreast of industry trends, crucial for long-term career growth in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Any graduate with 45% marks or equivalent grade in core/main for BA Political Science (relaxation for SC/ST/OEC candidates). Or, any graduate with 50% marks or equivalent grade in Part III for other degree holders. Or, an equivalent degree recognized by the University of Calicut.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 1C 01 | Ancient & Medieval Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Nature and Salient Features of Indian Political Thought, Dharma, Danda and Justice, Kingship, Kautilya''''s Arthasastra, Ramayana and Mahabharata, Political Thought in Ancient Kerala |
| POL 1C 02 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Approaches to Political Theory, State, Sovereignty, Power and Authority, Justice, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Democracy, Civil Society and Citizenship |
| POL 1C 03 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political System and Political Culture, Political Socialization and Political Participation, Electoral Systems and Political Parties |
| POL 1C 04 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Approaches to Public Administration, Bureaucracy and Scientific Management, Human Relations and Decision Making, New Public Administration and Good Governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 2C 05 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reform Movements, Rammohan Roy and Dayananda Saraswati, Vivekananda and Aurobindo, Gandhi, Nehru, and Ambedkar, Savarkar and M.N. Roy |
| POL 2C 06 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, Bentham and J.S. Mill, Karl Marx and Gramsci |
| POL 2C 07 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Cold War and Non-Alignment Movement, Globalisation and International Law, International Organizations and Collective Security |
| POL 2C 08 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Social Science Research, Types of Research and Research Design, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques and Data Analysis, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 3C 09 | Indian Constitution and Political Process | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution and Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, Union Executive, Parliament, and Judiciary, Federalism and Centre-State Relations, Electoral Reforms and Political Parties in India |
| POL 3C 10 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India and National Human Rights Commission, Women''''s Rights and Children''''s Rights, Environmental Rights and Collective Rights |
| POL 3E 01 | Dynamics of Contemporary Indian Politics (Elective I Option) | Elective | 4 | Challenges to Indian Democracy, Identity Politics, Regionalism, and Communalism, Caste Politics and Agrarian Issues, Economic Reforms and Social Justice, Coalition Politics and Role of Media |
| POL 3E 02 | Modern Political Analysis (Elective I Option) | Elective | 4 | Behavioralism and Post-Behavioralism, Systems Approach and Structural Functionalism, Political Development and Political Modernization, Political Economy and Dependency Theory, Decision-Making Theories and Game Theory |
| POL 3E 03 | Political Geography (Elective I Option) | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Geography, Geopolitics and Geo-strategy, Boundaries, Territory, and Space, Electoral Geography and Political Ecology, Resource Politics and Environmental Conflicts |
| POL 3E 04 | Foreign Policy of India (Elective I Option) | Elective | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment and Strategic Autonomy, India and Neighbours (Pakistan, China, Nepal, Sri Lanka), India and Major Powers (USA, Russia, EU), India''''s Look East Policy and Economic Diplomacy |
| POL 3C 12 | Project/Internship | Core | 4 | Identification of Research Problem, Data Collection and Analysis, Field Study and Report Preparation, Application of Research Methodology, Presentation and Viva Voce |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL 4C 13 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Dynamics of State Politics in India, Regional Parties and Coalition Politics in States, Centre-State Relations and Autonomy Demands, Planning, Development, and Social Movements in States, Local Self-Government and Panchayati Raj |
| POL 4E 05 | Political Sociology (Elective II Option) | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Social Stratification and Political Culture, Political Participation and Social Movements, Elite Theory and Mass Media, Social Change and Modernization |
| POL 4E 06 | Public Policy and Administration in India (Elective II Option) | Elective | 4 | Public Policy: Nature, Scope, and Models, Policy Making Process, Implementation, and Evaluation, Social Welfare Policies and Economic Policies, Environmental Policies and Administrative Reforms, Corruption and Accountability in Public Administration |
| POL 4E 07 | India and the World (Elective II Option) | Elective | 4 | India''''s Role in United Nations and WTO, India and Regional Organizations (SAARC, BIMSTEC), India and Emerging Global Blocs (BRICS, G-20), Global Challenges (Terrorism, Climate Change, Poverty), India''''s Soft Power and Cultural Diplomacy |
| POL 4E 08 | Politics of Gender (Elective II Option) | Elective | 4 | Concept of Gender and Patriarchy, Feminist Theories and Women''''s Movements, Gender and Development, Gender in Indian Politics and Governance, Gender Justice and Rights |
| POL 4E 09 | Dalit Politics in India (Elective III Option) | Elective | 4 | Dalit Movements and Ambedkar''''s Thought, Caste Discrimination and Untouchability, Affirmative Action and Reservations, Political Representation of Dalits, Dalit Literature and Cultural Resistance |
| POL 4E 10 | Environmental Politics (Elective III Option) | Elective | 4 | Environmentalism and Green Politics, Sustainable Development and Ecological Modernization, Climate Change and Global Environmental Governance, Environmental Movements in India, Resource Conflicts and Environmental Justice |
| POL 4E 11 | Decentralization and Local Governance (Elective III Option) | Elective | 4 | Concept of Decentralization and Local Governance, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Urban Local Bodies, Constitutional Amendments (73rd & 74th), Grassroots Democracy and Citizen Participation, Financial Autonomy and Challenges of Local Governance |
| POL 4E 12 | Area Studies: West Asia (Elective III Option) | Elective | 4 | Geopolitics of West Asia, Arab-Israeli Conflict and Palestine Issue, Oil Politics and Energy Security, Role of External Powers in West Asia, Democracy Movements and Islamic Extremism |
| POL 4C 16 | Dissertation | Core | 4 | Independent Research Project, Literature Review and Research Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Viva Voce Examination |
