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MA 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 MA Political Science program at University of Lucknow focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and international relations. It delves into Indian political thought and governance, equipping students with analytical skills vital for public service, research, and policy analysis within the Indian context. The program also explores the dynamics of global politics and international law, addressing contemporary challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates in any discipline, particularly those with a background in social sciences, seeking entry into civil services, public administration, or policy research roles. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of governance and international affairs, and career changers transitioning into policy advocacy, journalism, or teaching, with a strong interest in socio-political dynamics.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including roles in central and state civil services (UPSC, UPPSC), political analysis, journalism, think tanks, and academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth trajectories in government and policy sectors. The program also builds a strong foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. and contributing to national discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Knowledge in Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand core political theories (Western, Indian, IR) and their historical contexts. Create detailed notes, participate in class discussions, and form study groups to debate complex concepts, ensuring a strong theoretical base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
University Library resources, JSTOR, IEP, Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, Dedicated study groups, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
A strong grasp of theories is crucial for analytical roles in government, research, and for tackling conceptual questions in civil service examinations, providing a solid framework for policy analysis.
Develop Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the ''''Research Methodology'''' course, applying learned concepts to small research projects. Practice identifying research problems, designing studies, and critically analyzing data from news, academic journals, and public reports to refine your analytical and evidence-based reasoning.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (basic), Excel, Academic databases like J-STOR, Project Gutenberg, News archives (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), University workshops on research
Career Connection
Essential for careers in policy research, journalism, think tanks, and academia, enabling graduates to conduct rigorous analysis and contribute informed opinions to public discourse.
Cultivate an Awareness of Current Affairs and Governance- (Semester 1-2)
Make it a daily habit to read national newspapers and reputable online news sources focusing on Indian politics, international relations, and public policy. Participate in university debates or current affairs clubs to develop informed perspectives and hone communication skills.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research, Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV, Official government portals (PMO, MEA)
Career Connection
Indispensable for civil services, media, and policy-making roles, as it directly relates to the application of political science knowledge in real-world governance and international affairs.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Critical Policy Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
For courses like ''''India''''s Foreign Policy'''' and ''''Modern Indian Government & Politics,'''' go beyond memorizing facts. Critically analyze policy decisions, their impacts, and alternative approaches. Write policy briefs or argumentative essays on contemporary issues, focusing on structure and evidence.
Tools & Resources
Government reports (e.g., NITI Aayog), Academic journals, Policy think tank publications (e.g., ORF, IDSA), Case studies on Indian governance
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for roles in policy analysis, think tanks, and diplomatic services, where critical evaluation of government actions is paramount.
Network with Faculty and Guest Lecturers- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures. Introduce yourself to faculty members and guest speakers, asking thoughtful questions. This helps in gaining insights beyond the curriculum, understanding career paths, and potentially finding mentorship for research projects.
Tools & Resources
Department events, University lecture series, LinkedIn for connecting with guest speakers
Career Connection
Opens doors to research opportunities, professional guidance, and potential recommendations for higher studies or entry-level positions in academic or policy circles.
Develop Specialized Knowledge for Competitive Exams- (Semester 3-4)
Begin targeted preparation for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services or State PSCs, focusing on the Political Science optional paper and general studies components. Integrate exam syllabus with MA coursework, practice answer writing, and join relevant study circles.
Tools & Resources
Previous year UPSC/PSC question papers, Standard textbooks for competitive exams, Online coaching platforms (if desired), Dedicated study groups
Career Connection
Directly aligns with the aspirations of many MA Political Science students for careers in civil services, providing a structured approach to leveraging their academic learning for competitive success.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a High-Quality Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Leverage the PS-404 ''''Dissertation/Project Work'''' to explore a research topic of genuine interest and relevance to contemporary Indian politics or international relations. Work closely with your supervisor, ensuring rigorous research, robust analysis, and a well-structured final report that showcases your specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic databases, Statistical software (if applicable), University research guidelines, Supervisor''''s expertise
Career Connection
A strong dissertation serves as a portfolio piece for research roles, think tanks, and provides a significant advantage for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D., demonstrating independent research capability.
Participate in Internships or Volunteer Work- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks or part-time))
Seek out internships with NGOs, local government bodies, political campaigns, or research organizations during semester breaks or alongside studies. This provides invaluable practical experience in policy implementation, advocacy, or public administration within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
University career cell, Online internship portals (Internshala, LetsIntern), Networking with alumni, Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Practical exposure bridges the gap between theory and practice, enhancing employability, building professional networks, and clarifying career aspirations, particularly for roles in public service or advocacy.
Refine Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research findings (e.g., dissertation preliminary findings, paper presentations). Participate in seminars, mock interviews, and group discussions to articulate complex political ideas clearly and persuasively, essential for policy advocacy and public roles.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, University public speaking clubs, Mock interview sessions (for civil services), Peer feedback
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are paramount for leadership roles, civil services, academic positions, and any public-facing career where conveying nuanced information is critical.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduate in any discipline with 45% marks or equivalent grade (40% for SC/ST).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-101 | Theories of International Relations | Core | 4 | Rise of IR as a discipline, Idealist and Realist Approaches, Neo-Realism and Neo-Liberalism, Marxist and Feminist Theories, Constructivism and Post-Cold War changes |
| PS-102 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Approaches, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Federalism and Unitary Systems, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Interest Groups and Social Movements |
| PS-103 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought, Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Ambedkar), Nehru, Savarkar, J.P. Narayan, Reformist and Revivalist traditions |
| PS-104 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Classical and Human Relations Theories, Bureaucracy and Public Policy, Development Administration, Good Governance and E-governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-201 | Public International Law | Core | 4 | Nature, Sources and Subjects of International Law, State Recognition and State Succession, Intervention, Asylum and Extradition, Law of War and Neutrality, International Organizations and Dispute Settlement |
| PS-202 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Bentham, J.S. Mill and Hegel, Marx and John Rawls |
| PS-203 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Theories of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants on Human Rights, Role of UN and NHRC in India, Human Rights Movements and NGOs |
| PS-204 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Social Science Research: Meaning and Scope, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-301 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Participation and Power, Elite Theories and Bureaucracy, Interest Groups and Pressure Groups, Mass Media and Political Communication |
| PS-302 | Foreign Policy of Major Powers | Core | 4 | Determinants of Foreign Policy, Foreign Policy of USA, Foreign Policy of China and Russia, Foreign Policy of Japan and EU, Post-Cold War Global Scenario |
| PS-303 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants and Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and India, India''''s Relations with Neighbors (Pakistan, China), India''''s Relations with Major Powers (USA, Russia), Look East/Act East Policy and BRICS |
| PS-304 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 4 | Liberalism and Communitarianism, Multiculturalism and Post-Modernism, Feminist Political Theory, Environmentalism and Green Politics, Deliberative Democracy and Critical Theory |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-401 | International & Regional Organizations | Core | 4 | United Nations: Organs and Reforms, International Monetary Fund and World Bank, World Trade Organization (WTO), Regional Organizations (ASEAN, SAARC, EU), Non-Aligned Movement and G77 |
| PS-402 | Modern Indian Government & Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development in India, Federalism and Center-State Relations, Party System and Electoral Politics, Pressure Groups and Social Movements, Local Self-Government and Panchayati Raj |
| PS-403 | Political Economy of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Dependency Theory and World Systems Theory, Globalization and Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization (LPG) Reforms in India, Role of State vs. Market in Development, Sustainable Development and Environmental Concerns |
| PS-404 | Dissertation / Project Work (Viva-Voce) | Project | 4 | Identifying Research Problem and Objectives, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation (Viva-Voce) |
