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B-A in Political Science at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Political Science program at University of Kerala focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations. It delves into Indian political thought and administration, emphasizing the unique complexities of India''''s democratic framework. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills necessary to interpret political events and contribute to public discourse, catering to the growing demand for politically informed professionals in India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or social activism. It also caters to those passionate about understanding governance and public affairs, aspiring to careers in government, NGOs, or think tanks. Students with a keen interest in historical and contemporary political developments, strong analytical abilities, and a desire to contribute to societal change are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as IAS/IPS officers, political analysts, journalists, content writers, public relations specialists, or researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy-making or bureaucratic roles. The program also serves as a strong foundation for further studies in law, public policy, or international relations, aligning with various competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Strong Reading & Analytical Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed readings, newspapers, and academic journals. Focus on understanding diverse political concepts, theories, and historical contexts. Practice critical thinking by identifying arguments and counter-arguments in texts.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR, Project MUSE, The Hindu, Indian Express, NCERT Political Science textbooks
Career Connection
Builds foundational knowledge essential for competitive exams (UPSC, state PCS) and strong analytical skills for any professional role.
Participate in Debates & Public Speaking- (Semester 1-2)
Join college debate clubs, Model UN simulations, or political discussion forums. Actively participate to hone your argumentation skills, articulate ideas clearly, and develop confidence in public speaking, which is crucial for political analysis and advocacy.
Tools & Resources
College debate society, Toastmasters International (if available), YouTube channels on public speaking
Career Connection
Essential for roles in media, public relations, civil services interviews, and political consultancy.
Build a Strong Foundational Knowledge in Indian Politics & History- (Semester 1-2)
Pay special attention to subjects like ''''Introduction to Political Science,'''' ''''Indian Government and Politics,'''' and ''''History of Indian Freedom Movement.'''' Develop a solid understanding of constitutional principles, historical developments, and key political figures.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks by Laxmikanth (Indian Polity), Bipan Chandra (History), University lecture notes
Career Connection
Directly prepares for the General Studies papers in UPSC/state PSC exams and provides context for understanding current Indian political affairs.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Current Affairs and Policy Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond textbooks, regularly follow national and international news, government policies, and parliamentary debates. Attempt to critically analyze policy implications and their socio-political impact, connecting them to theories learned in ''''International Politics'''' and ''''Public Administration.''''
Tools & Resources
PRS Legislative Research, The Wire, Scroll.in, The Hindu, Indian Express, Government official websites
Career Connection
Develops the acumen required for roles in policy think tanks, journalism, public relations, and advisory positions.
Explore Internship Opportunities with NGOs or Local Bodies- (Semester 4-5)
Seek internships with NGOs working on social issues, human rights, or development, or with local self-government institutions (Panchayats, Municipalities). This provides practical exposure to grassroots governance and policy implementation.
Tools & Resources
University career cells, Internshala, NGO websites in Kerala, Faculty connections
Career Connection
Gain practical experience, build networks, and understand the ground realities of public service and social work, crucial for development sector roles.
Participate in Academic Workshops & Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Attend workshops on research methodology, data analysis, or specific policy areas relevant to Political Science. Present papers or research ideas to refine your academic and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
University department notices, National conferences, Online platforms like NPTEL for related courses
Career Connection
Enhances research capabilities for higher studies, think tank positions, and academic roles, showcasing intellectual curiosity and engagement.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations (UPSC/PSC)- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for civil services exams, focusing on General Studies, optional subjects (Political Science and International Relations), and essay writing. Practice mock tests and previous year papers rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (offline/online), Online test series, Standard UPSC preparation books, Dedicated study groups
Career Connection
Directly targets entry into the Indian Administrative Service, Indian Police Service, and other central/state government services.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize the ''''Research Methodology'''' course to design and execute a robust final year project on a relevant political science topic. This involves extensive literature review, data collection (if applicable), analysis, and formal report writing.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (Excel/SPSS if needed), Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), University faculty mentorship, Citation management tools
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capabilities, critical for academic pursuits, policy analysis roles, and think tanks. Develops skills for higher education.
Develop Specialized Skills in Policy Advocacy or Data Analysis- (Semester 5-6)
Complement your political science knowledge with practical skills like policy brief writing, advocacy campaign design, or basic data analysis for social sciences. This can involve short online courses or self-study.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (Coursera, edX) on Public Policy, Data visualization tools, Workshops on advocacy techniques, LinkedIn Learning
Career Connection
Makes you job-ready for roles in lobbying, government relations, policy research, and data-driven journalism in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in Plus Two / Pre-Degree or an equivalent examination recognized by the University of Kerala.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 111 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1111.4 | Listening & Speaking Skills | Common Course (English) | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Developing Listening Skills, Developing Speaking Skills, Pronunciation Practice, Group Discussions |
| EN1121.4 | Reading & Writing Skills | Common Course (English) | 3 | Reading Comprehension, Vocabulary Building, Paragraph Writing, Essay Writing, Note Making and Report Writing |
| ML1111.4 / HN1111.4 | Common Course (Additional Language) I | Common Course (Second Language) | 4 | Fundamentals of the Language, Basic Grammar and Syntax, Simple Prose and Poetry, Basic Conversation Practice, Writing Short Sentences |
| PS1141 | Introduction to Political Science | Core | 3 | Definition and Scope of Political Science, Concept of State and Sovereignty, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Liberty, Equality, and Justice, Theories of Origin of State |
| HY1131.4 | History of Indian Freedom Movement (1857-1947) | Complementary Course | 3 | The Great Revolt of 1857, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Early Nationalists and Moderates, Emergence of Mahatma Gandhi, Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience, Partition and Independence |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1211.4 | Writing & Presentation Skills | Common Course (English) | 4 | Argumentative Writing, Critical Analysis, Developing Presentation Techniques, Effective Public Speaking, Use of Visual Aids in Presentations |
| EN1221.4 | Literature & Contemporary Issues | Common Course (English) | 3 | Introduction to Literary Forms, Representation of Social Issues in Literature, Gender Studies in Literary Context, Environmental Themes in Literature, Cultural Studies and Literature |
| ML1211.4 / HN1211.4 | Common Course (Additional Language) II | Common Course (Second Language) | 4 | Advanced Grammar and Idioms, Short Stories and Plays, Translation Practice, Letter Writing, Reading Comprehension |
| PS1241 | Political Theory | Core | 3 | Nature and Significance of Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, Theories of the State (Liberal, Marxist), Concept of Rights and Justice, Democracy and Citizenship |
| HY1231.4 | History of Modern World | Complementary Course | 3 | Renaissance and Reformation, Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution, World Wars and Cold War, Decolonization and Globalization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1311.4 | Academic Writing & Remedial English Grammar | Common Course (English) | 4 | Principles of Academic Style, Writing Research Papers, Referencing and Citation, Parts of Speech and Sentence Structure, Punctuation and Common Errors |
| ML1311.4 / HN1311.4 | Common Course (Additional Language) III | Common Course (Second Language) | 4 | Regional Literature and Culture, Introduction to Literary Criticism, Advanced Composition and Essay Writing, Formal and Informal Writing, Oral Communication Skills |
| PS1341 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Salient Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, Federalism in India |
| PS1342 | Introduction to Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems (e.g., UK, USA, China), Federal and Unitary Systems, Constitutions and Constitutionalism |
| HY1331.4 | History of Indian National Movement (1885-1947) | Complementary Course | 3 | Rise of Indian Nationalism (Post 1885), Moderates and Extremists, Emergence of Mahatma Gandhi and Mass Movements, Constitutional Reforms (e.g., Minto-Morley, Montagu-Chelmsford), Communalism and the Demand for Pakistan, Towards Partition and Independence |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1411.4 | Critical Thinking, Academic Writing & Presentation Skills | Common Course (English) | 4 | Principles of Logical Reasoning, Analyzing Arguments, Writing Reports and Proposals, Delivering Effective Presentations, Debate and Discussion Skills |
| ML1411.4 / HN1411.4 | Common Course (Additional Language) IV | Common Course (Second Language) | 4 | Modern Literature and Trends, Introduction to Literary Theory, Creative Writing Techniques, Advanced Translation Practice, Understanding Public Discourse |
| PS1441 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle: Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Realism in Politics, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theories, J.S. Mill: Liberty and Representative Government, Marx: Historical Materialism and Class Struggle |
| PS1442 | International Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, EU), Disarmament and Arms Control, Globalization and its Impact |
| HY1431.4 | Social and Cultural History of Kerala | Complementary Course | 3 | Ancient and Medieval Kerala Society, Impact of Colonialism on Kerala, Social Reform Movements in Kerala, Cultural Institutions and Traditions, Art Forms and Literary Traditions, Modern Kerala Society and Transformation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS1541 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration, Bureaucracy and its Role, Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation, Accountability and Control in Administration, Development Administration |
| PS1542 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Central Administration (President, PM, Cabinet), State Administration (Governor, CM, Secretariat), District Administration and Local Governance, Public Sector Undertakings, Civil Services in India |
| PS1543 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Political Participation and Electoral Behavior, Elites and Power Structure, Pressure Groups and Social Movements, State and Civil Society |
| PS1544 | Government and Politics of Kerala | Core | 4 | Historical Background of Kerala Politics, Formation of Kerala State, Political Parties and Alliances in Kerala, Electoral Politics and Coalition Governments, Decentralization and Local Governance in Kerala, Major Social and Political Movements |
| PS1551.X | Open Course (e.g., Human Rights) | Open Course | 3 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India (NHRC, SHRC), State and Human Rights Violations, Role of NGOs in Human Rights Advocacy |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS1641 | Development Administration | Core | 4 | Concept and Theories of Development, Approaches to Development Administration, Planning in India: Five Year Plans, Decentralization and Local Governance, Sustainable Development Goals, Role of NGOs in Development |
| PS1642 | Modern Political Ideologies | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Classical and Modern, Socialism and Marxism, Conservatism and Nationalism, Feminism: Waves and Approaches, Environmentalism and Green Politics, Post-Modernism and Critical Theory |
| PS1643 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Scientific Method and Social Research, Research Design and Types of Research, Methods of Data Collection (Primary and Secondary), Sampling Techniques, Hypothesis Formulation and Testing, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
| PS1644 | Local Self Government in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Self Government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Structure and Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies (Municipalities, Corporations), Finances of Local Self Government, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance |
| PS1645 | Project/Dissertation | Core (Project) | 4 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review and Research Design, Data Collection and Fieldwork (if applicable), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
