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BA in Political Science at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Political Science program at the University of Mysore focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and contemporary global issues, with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It integrates classical thought with modern analytical tools, preparing students for diverse roles in governance, public policy, and civil society. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for ethically informed and critically thinking professionals in India''''s dynamic political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or social work. It also caters to individuals passionate about public affairs, law, or international relations, looking to build a foundational understanding of political dynamics. Students with a background in humanities or social sciences who possess strong analytical and communication skills will find this program particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths in India such as civil servants (IAS, KAS), policy researchers, political analysts, journalists, diplomats, or work with NGOs and international organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals, potentially reaching INR 10-20+ LPA in senior roles. The program aligns well with competitive exams preparation and advanced studies in political science.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong understanding of fundamental political theories and constitutional frameworks. Actively participate in class discussions and utilize supplementary readings beyond textbooks to build conceptual clarity and critical thinking from the outset.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books (Classes XI-XII), Standard Political Theory texts (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), Indian Constitution commentaries, Online platforms like PRS Legislative Research for current affairs
Career Connection
A robust foundation is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, KPSC) and advanced studies, providing the analytical bedrock for all future learning and career applications.
Cultivate Effective Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong academic reading habits for complex political texts and practice concise, analytical essay writing. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine arguments and improve articulation, essential for scholarly and professional communication.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), University library resources, Academic journals in Political Science, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Excellent communication and analytical writing are invaluable for policy briefs, research papers, journalism, and effective advocacy in any political science-related profession.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated with daily national and international political developments. Participate in college debates, Model UN sessions, or student forums to apply theoretical knowledge to contemporary issues and develop persuasive communication skills.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express newspapers, Livemint, The Wire, Frontline magazine, Public policy podcasts
Career Connection
Awareness of current events and the ability to articulate informed opinions are vital for roles in civil services, media, think tanks, and policy advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities for short research projects under faculty guidance or internships with NGOs, political organizations, or government bodies. This practical exposure helps apply classroom learning to real-world political processes.
Tools & Resources
University''''s career services, NGO databases (e.g., GuideStar India), Internshala, Departmental research opportunities
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of potential career paths, significantly boosting employability post-graduation.
Develop Specialized Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond theoretical knowledge, focus on building skills such as data analysis, policy brief writing, or survey design. Consider taking relevant skill enhancement courses or workshops that complement your political science studies.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Research Methodology/Data Analysis, Basic statistical software (e.g., R, Excel), Workshops on public policy analysis
Career Connection
These specialized skills are highly valued by think tanks, research organizations, and government agencies seeking evidence-based policy solutions and analytical expertise.
Network with Professionals and Academics- (Semester 3-5)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to interact with political scientists, public administrators, and policy experts. Join professional bodies or student associations related to political science to expand your professional network.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Conference listings, Departmental events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, internships, job opportunities, and collaborative projects, crucial for career advancement in a competitive field.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams/Higher Studies- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for civil service exams (UPSC/KPSC) or entrance exams for postgraduate programs. Form study groups, practice mock tests, and seek guidance from mentors or coaching centers if pursuing these career paths.
Tools & Resources
Online test series platforms, Reference books for General Studies and Optional Subjects, Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes
Career Connection
This focused preparation directly leads to coveted positions in public administration or entry into prestigious academic programs, shaping long-term career trajectories.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Dissertation/Internship- (Semester 6)
Utilize the final semester''''s project/dissertation or internship to delve deeply into a chosen area of political science. This demonstrates your capacity for independent research and problem-solving, showcasing your expertise to potential employers or academic institutions.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software for data analysis, Academic writing guides, Faculty advisors
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation or a successful internship with a detailed report serves as a portfolio piece, critical for securing research roles, advanced degrees, or specialized positions.
Build a Professional Online Presence and Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Create a professional online profile (e.g., LinkedIn) highlighting your academic achievements, projects, internships, and skills. Curate a portfolio of your best research papers, policy briefs, or articles to showcase your capabilities to recruiters.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn profile optimization guides, Personal academic website/blog, Digital portfolio platforms
Career Connection
A strong online presence enhances visibility to recruiters, demonstrates your professionalism, and allows you to proactively connect with industry leaders and potential employers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed PUC/10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 118 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for theory courses) / 50% (for project/internship), External: 60% (for theory courses) / 50% (for project/internship)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-1.1 | Indian Constitution & Government | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Framing of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Legislature and Executive, Judiciary in India, Centre-State Relations, Local Self Government (Panchayat Raj), Electoral System |
| AECC-1 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | |
| VAC-1 | Value Added Course | Value Added Course | 1 | |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | |
| OE-1 | Open Elective - 1 | Open Elective | 4 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-2.2 | Political Theory (Western & Indian) | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature and Significance of Political Science, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Liberty, Equality, Justice, and Rights, Democracy and Citizenship, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Western Political Thinkers (e.g., Plato, Aristotle), Indian Political Thinkers (e.g., Gandhi, Ambedkar) |
| AECC-2 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | |
| VAC-2 | Value Added Course | Value Added Course | 1 | |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | |
| OE-2 | Open Elective - 2 | Open Elective | 4 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-3.3 | Indian Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Basavanna), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazal), Modern Indian Political Thought (Ram Mohan Roy, M.K. Gandhi), Dr. B.R. Ambedkar''''s Political Philosophy, Jawaharlal Nehru''''s Political Ideas, Integral Humanism (Deendayal Upadhyaya) |
| AECC-3 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | |
| VAC-3 | Value Added Course | Value Added Course | 1 | |
| SEC-3 | Skill Enhancement Course | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | |
| OE-3 | Open Elective - 3 | Open Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-4.4 | Public Administration | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature, Scope and Significance of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its types, Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit), Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), E-governance and its applications, Concept of Good Governance |
| AECC-4 | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Environmental Studies) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | |
| VAC-4 | Value Added Course | Value Added Course | 1 | |
| SEC-4 | Skill Enhancement Course | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | |
| OE-4 | Open Elective - 4 | Open Elective | 4 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-5.1 | International Relations | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature, Scope and Significance of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Evolution of International System (Cold War, Post-Cold War), United Nations and Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN), Foreign Policy of India and its determinants, Contemporary Global Issues (Terrorism, Climate Change, Globalisation) |
| BA-PSC-DSC-5.2 | Comparative Politics | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature, Scope and Approaches of Comparative Politics, Political Systems (Unitary, Federal, Parliamentary, Presidential), Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems (FPTP, Proportional Representation), Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Federalism and its challenges |
| BA-PSC-DSC-5.3 | Human Rights | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Generations of Rights (Civil, Political, Economic, Social, Cultural), Human Rights in India (NHRC, SHRC, Constitutional Provisions), International Human Rights Law and Mechanisms, Challenges to Human Rights (Terrorism, Poverty) |
| BA-PSC-SEC-5.1 | Human Rights Education | Skill Enhancement Course (Political Science) | 3 | Origin and Development of Human Rights, Role of UN in Promoting Human Rights, Contemporary Challenges to Human Rights, Role of NGOs in Human Rights Advocacy |
| OE-5 | Open Elective - 5 | Open Elective | 4 | |
| BA-PSC-MP-5.1 | Major Project / Research Methodology in Political Science | Major Project / Research Methodology | 4 | Fundamentals of Social Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods (Primary, Secondary), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethics in Research |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PSC-DSC-6.1 | Western Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli''''s Realism and Statecraft, Social Contract Theorists (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), J.S. Mill on Liberty and Representative Government, Karl Marx''''s Theory of Class Struggle, Gramsci''''s Hegemony |
| BA-PSC-DSC-6.2 | Political Sociology | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Political Participation and Voting Behavior, Elites and Power Structures, Political Development and Modernization, Social Movements and their impact, Gender and Politics |
| BA-PSC-DSC-6.3 | International Law | Discipline Specific Core (Political Science) | 4 | Nature, Scope and Sources of International Law, Relationship between International and Municipal Law, State and State Recognition, Territory, Asylum, and Extradition, Laws of War and Use of Force, International Criminal Court, International Environmental Law |
| BA-PSC-SEC-6.2 | Constitution & Human Rights | Skill Enhancement Course (Political Science) | 3 | Concept of Constitutionalism, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, National Human Rights Institutions, Role of Judiciary in Protecting Rights |
| OE-6 | Open Elective - 6 | Open Elective | 4 | |
| BA-PSC-ID-6.1 | Internship / Dissertation in Political Science | Internship / Dissertation | 4 | Practical exposure in political/social organizations, Fieldwork and data gathering, In-depth research on a specific political topic, Critical analysis and report writing, Presentation of findings |
