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BA in Political Science at University of Lucknow
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at University of Lucknow Lucknow?
This Political Science program at University of Lucknow focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and governance, with a strong emphasis on Indian political dynamics. It delves into global political issues, public administration, and historical movements, preparing students for critical analysis and informed participation in the societal and governmental landscape. The curriculum is designed to meet contemporary demands in policy-making and social research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in public affairs, governance, and social justice, aspiring to careers in civil services, journalism, research, or public policy. Fresh graduates seeking entry into government, NGOs, or academic roles will find the foundational knowledge invaluable. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding and influencing India''''s political and social fabric.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (IAS, PCS), political analysis, journalism, public relations, and research. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters analytical thinking and communication skills, essential for professional growth in Indian governmental and non-governmental sectors, and further academic pursuits.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core political theories and constitutional principles. Regularly read textbooks, make concise notes, and engage in classroom discussions to grasp fundamental concepts like liberty, equality, sovereignty, and the Indian Constitution. Utilize resources like NCERT books for basic clarity and university library resources.
Tools & Resources
University Library, NCERT Political Science textbooks, Academic journals
Career Connection
A strong grasp of fundamentals is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, UPPSC) and further academic research in political science.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing political articles, news reports, and opinion pieces. Learn to identify different perspectives, biases, and underlying arguments. Participate in debates and essay writing competitions to hone argumentative skills and articulate viewpoints effectively. Form study groups to discuss current political events.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news websites (The Hindu, Indian Express), Academic articles, Debate clubs
Career Connection
Essential for roles in journalism, policy analysis, and any field requiring informed decision-making and clear communication.
Engage with Indian Political History- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond syllabus requirements, explore the narratives of India''''s freedom struggle and constitutional making through historical accounts, documentaries, and biographies of national leaders. Understanding the historical context provides deeper insights into contemporary Indian politics and governance challenges.
Tools & Resources
Documentaries on Indian history, Books by eminent historians, Online archives of historical speeches
Career Connection
Provides context for civil services exams and enhances understanding for roles in government and social sectors.
Intermediate Stage
Apply Theoretical Knowledge to Current Affairs- (Semester 3-5)
Continuously connect theoretical concepts from comparative politics, public administration, and international relations to ongoing national and international events. Read diverse analyses of political developments and form independent opinions. Participate in mock parliamentary sessions or Model UN conferences if available.
Tools & Resources
Current affairs magazines, Policy briefs, Think tank reports, Model UN platforms
Career Connection
Develops practical analytical skills highly valued in policy research, journalism, and diplomatic services.
Network with Professionals and Academics- (Semester 3-5)
Attend university seminars, workshops, and guest lectures by political scientists, civil servants, and public policy experts. Actively engage with professors during office hours to discuss research interests and career paths. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with alumni in relevant fields.
Tools & Resources
University events calendar, LinkedIn, Professional associations
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and insights into various career trajectories in public service and academia.
Explore Specialization through Electives and Projects- (Semester 5)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your long-term interests, whether it is human rights, environmental politics, or gender studies. Proactively seek opportunities for small research projects or term papers on these specialized topics to deepen knowledge and develop research skills.
Tools & Resources
DSE course descriptions, Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Faculty research areas
Career Connection
Builds a specialized portfolio, enhancing prospects for niche roles or postgraduate studies in specific political science sub-fields.
Advanced Stage
Master Research and Presentation Skills- (Semester 6)
For the final year project/dissertation, focus on developing a robust research question, conducting thorough literature reviews, and applying appropriate methodologies. Practice presenting your research findings clearly and concisely, preparing for academic and professional presentations.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology guides, Academic writing centers, Presentation software
Career Connection
Essential for postgraduate studies, research roles, and any career requiring data analysis and effective communication of complex ideas.
Intensify Civil Services Examination Preparation- (Semester 6)
If civil services are a goal, dedicate significant time to UPSC/UPPSC preparation, focusing on Political Science as an optional subject. Join coaching institutes, take mock tests, and work on answer writing practice. Integrate current affairs knowledge with static portions of the syllabus.
Tools & Resources
Civil service coaching materials, Mock test series, Government publications (Yojana, Kurukshetra)
Career Connection
Directly prepares for prestigious government careers in India, offering a high-impact public service pathway.
Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Compile a portfolio of your best academic papers, research projects, debate achievements, and any internship experiences. Develop a professional resume and practice interview skills, focusing on articulating your understanding of political concepts and their real-world implications.
Tools & Resources
Resume builders, Interview preparation guides, Career services office
Career Connection
Crucial for securing internships, job placements, or admissions to competitive postgraduate programs by showcasing academic rigor and practical skills.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) from a recognized board
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters
Credits: 48 (for Political Science Major courses only) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-101 | Introduction to Political Science | Core | 4 | Political Science: Meaning, Nature, Scope, State: Elements, Theories of Origin, Sovereignty: Meaning, Types, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Law, Democracy, Dictatorship, Political Culture, Socialization |
| PSC-102 | Indian National Movement | Core | 4 | Approaches to Indian Nationalism, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Political Associations, Moderates, Extremists, Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India Movement, Partition |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-201 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism, Nationalism, Post-Modernism, Concept of Justice, Equality, Liberty, Human Rights: Meaning, Types, Theories of the State |
| PSC-202 | Indian Constitution | Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Constituent Assembly, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Union Legislature (Parliament), Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Court), Centre-State Relations, Emergency Provisions, Constitutional Amendments |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-301 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Comparative Politics: Meaning, Nature, Approaches, Constitutionalism, Federalism, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Constitutions of UK, USA, China, Executive, Legislature, Judiciary in Comparative Perspective |
| PSC-302 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Sociology: Nature, Scope, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political Participation, Political Development, Caste, Class, Religion in Indian Politics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-401 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Public Administration: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Principles of Organization, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy, Public Policy, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Development Administration, Good Governance |
| PSC-402 | International Relations | Core | 4 | International Relations: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War, Post-Cold War Era, United Nations, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), India''''s Foreign Policy: Principles and Objectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-501 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Forms of Government, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theory, Bentham, J.S. Mill: Utilitarianism, Liberty, Hegel, Marx: Dialectics, Class Struggle |
| PSC-502 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Constitution, Nehru: Socialism, Non-Alignment, Savarkar: Hindutva, Tilak, Raja Ram Mohan Roy |
| PSC-DSE-503 | Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law | Elective | 4 | Human Rights: Origin, Theories, Categories, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, International Humanitarian Law: Principles, Geneva Conventions, Role of UN in Human Rights |
| PSC-DSE-504 | Environment and Politics | Elective | 4 | Environmental Movements, Environmental Ethics, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Climate Change Governance, International Environmental Agreements, India''''s Environmental Policy, Role of State and NGOs in Environmental Protection |
| PSC-DSE-505 | Global Politics | Elective | 4 | Globalization: Dimensions, Debates, New World Order, Multipolarity, International Terrorism, Nuclear Proliferation, Disarmament, Arms Control, Global Justice, Human Security |
| PSC-DSE-506 | Women and Politics | Elective | 4 | Feminism: Waves, Approaches, Gender and Development, Gender Justice, Women''''s Movements in India, Women''''s Political Participation and Representation, Challenges to Women''''s Empowerment |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC-601 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Indian Administration: Evolution, Salient Features, Central Administration (President, PMO, Central Secretariat), State Administration (Governor, CM, State Secretariat), District Administration, Local Self-Government, Public Sector Undertakings, Electoral Reforms |
| PSC-602 | International Law | Core | 4 | International Law: Nature, Sources, Subjects, Recognition, State Succession, Law of the Sea, Law of Air and Space, International Criminal Court, International Court of Justice, Human Rights in International Law |
| PSC-DSE-603 | Human Rights in India | Elective | 4 | Human Rights: Constitutional Provisions in India, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), State HRCs, Role of Judiciary and NGOs in Protecting Human Rights, Challenges to Human Rights in India, Refugee Rights, Child Rights, Women''''s Rights |
| PSC-DSE-604 | Public Policy in India | Elective | 4 | Public Policy: Nature, Types, Models, Policy Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Role of Bureaucracy, Political Parties, Pressure Groups in Policy Making, Social, Economic, Environmental Policies in India, Citizen Participation in Policy Process |
| PSC-DSE-605 | Geopolitics | Elective | 4 | Geopolitics: Theories, Concepts, Geopolitical Regions (South Asia, Middle East, East Asia), Energy Security, Resource Politics, India''''s Geopolitical Interests and Challenges, Maritime Security, Arctic Politics |
| PSC-DSE-606 | Gender and Politics in India | Elective | 4 | Gender Studies: Key Concepts, Theories, Patriarchy, Matriarchy, Gender Roles, Women''''s Reservation Bill, Gender Budgeting, Gender Based Violence, Women''''s Empowerment Schemes, Challenges to Gender Equality in India |
