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MA in Political Science at University of Mysore

University of Mysore, a premier state university in Mysuru, Karnataka, established in 1916, is recognized for academic excellence. With NAAC 'A' Grade, it offers diverse programs. Ranked 54th in NIRF 2024 University category, it provides a vibrant learning environment.

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Mysuru, Karnataka

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About the Specialization

What is Political Science at University of Mysore Mysuru?

This MA Political Science program at the University of Mysore, Mysuru, Karnataka, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and processes at national and international levels. It combines traditional and contemporary approaches, offering in-depth study relevant to India''''s diverse political landscape and its global role. The curriculum is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills for policy analysis and social research, catering to India''''s growing demand for nuanced political expertise.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities, social sciences, commerce, or management backgrounds seeking entry into policy research, civil services, journalism, or academia. It also benefits working professionals aiming to upskill for roles in governance, advocacy, or international organizations, offering a robust theoretical and practical foundation for career advancement or transitions into public service roles in India.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles in the Civil Services (UPSC, KPSC), policy think tanks, NGOs, media houses, political consultancy, and academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15+ LPA in policy or government advisory roles. The program fosters analytical rigor, critical thinking, and research skills crucial for growth in India''''s public and private sectors.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Core Concepts and Theories- (Semester 1-2)

Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational political theories, concepts, and historical contexts from both Indian and Western thought. Actively participate in lectures, engage in critical discussions, and form study groups to clarify complex ideas. Utilize library resources and online academic journals to broaden perspectives beyond textbooks.

Tools & Resources

University Library, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Peer Study Groups

Career Connection

A strong theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC, and for developing analytical skills essential for policy analysis roles.

Develop Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Focus on improving essay writing, research paper structuring, and argumentation. Seek feedback on assignments from professors and peers. Practice concise and analytical writing, adhering to academic integrity standards. This will be invaluable for dissertation work and future professional communication.

Tools & Resources

Academic Writing Workshops, Grammarly, University Writing Center (if available)

Career Connection

Effective written communication is vital for publishing research, drafting policy briefs, and excelling in government documentation.

Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Politics- (Semester 1-2)

Regularly read reputable Indian newspapers, magazines, and watch academic discussions on current political events. Connect theoretical knowledge from coursework with real-world political happenings in India. This builds contextual understanding and enhances analytical application.

Tools & Resources

The Hindu, Indian Express, Frontline magazine, PRS Legislative Research

Career Connection

Essential for civil services exams, journalism, policy analysis, and any career requiring a deep understanding of India''''s political dynamics.

Intermediate Stage

Undertake Research Projects and Internships- (Semester 3)

Actively look for opportunities to engage in minor research projects under faculty guidance or apply for internships with NGOs, think tanks, or government bodies in Karnataka or nationally. Focus on gaining practical experience in policy analysis, data collection, or advocacy relevant to Political Science.

Tools & Resources

University Career Services, Internshala, NGO directories, Think tank websites (e.g., PRS, ORF)

Career Connection

Practical experience significantly boosts employability, provides networking opportunities, and helps in specializing for roles in the development sector or policy analysis.

Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3)

Carefully select Soft Core and Open Elective subjects based on your career interests. If aspiring for international roles, prioritize International Relations and Diplomacy. For domestic policy, choose Public Policy, Governance, or Indian Political System electives. Use these to build a specialized knowledge base.

Tools & Resources

Academic Advisors, Alumni Network for career insights

Career Connection

Strategic elective choices directly shape your expertise and marketability for specific job roles and advanced studies.

Network and Participate in Academic Events- (Semester 3)

Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences hosted by the department or other institutions. Network with faculty, guest speakers, and fellow students. Join academic clubs or debate societies to hone public speaking and critical argumentation skills.

Tools & Resources

Departmental notices, University events calendar, LinkedIn

Career Connection

Networking opens doors to research collaborations, mentorship, and potential job leads, while public speaking skills enhance professional presence.

Advanced Stage

Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)

Choose a dissertation topic that aligns with your career aspirations and allows for in-depth research. Work closely with your supervisor, meticulously plan your research, execute data collection, and present your findings rigorously. A strong dissertation is a key differentiator.

Tools & Resources

Research Databases, Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS for quantitative), Reference Managers (Zotero, Mendeley)

Career Connection

A well-executed dissertation showcases your research capability, a major asset for academic, think tank, or high-level policy analysis positions.

Intensive Civil Services/Job Preparation- (Semester 4)

If aiming for civil services, begin intensive preparation with mock tests, current affairs revisions, and optional subject coaching. For other careers, tailor your resume/CV and cover letters to specific job descriptions, practice interview skills, and utilize university placement cells.

Tools & Resources

Civil Services Coaching Centers, UPSC/KPSC previous year papers, University Placement Cell

Career Connection

Directly prepares you for competitive examinations or streamlines your entry into desired professional roles post-graduation.

Develop Digital Literacy and Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 4)

Acquire proficiency in digital tools relevant to social sciences, such as data visualization software, basic statistical analysis tools, or social media analytics. Understanding how to interpret and present data is increasingly important in policy and research roles.

Tools & Resources

Excel, Google Sheets, Basic R/Python tutorials (optional for advanced), Data visualization tools

Career Connection

These skills are highly valued in policy research, public administration, and data-driven journalism, enhancing your versatility in the job market.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • B.A. with Political Science / B.Sc., B.Com., B.B.A., B.C.A., B.S.W., B.B.M. or any equivalent degree with not less than 45% marks in aggregate. (40% in case of SC/ST/CAT-I Candidates).

Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters

Credits: 80 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
HS 1.1Ancient Indian Political ThoughtCore (Hard Core)4Sources of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Concept of Dharma, Dandaniti, Kingship, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra and Statecraft, Manusmriti''''s Social and Political Ideas, Shanti Parva: Origin and Nature of State
HS 1.2Western Political ThoughtCore (Hard Core)4Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theories, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Revolution
HS 1.3Political SociologyCore (Hard Core)4Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Elites, Power and Authority, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Role of Media in Politics
HS 1.4Public AdministrationCore (Hard Core)4Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Public Administration (Classical, Human Relations), Bureaucracy: Max Weber, Development Administration, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Accountability and Control over Administration
OE 1.5Human RightsElective (Open Elective)4Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), International Humanitarian Law and Refugee Law

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
HS 2.1Modern Indian Political ThoughtCore (Hard Core)4Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Reforms and Nationalism, Gopal Krishna Gokhale: Liberalism and Social Reform, Mahatma Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Sarvodaya, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Caste Annihilation, Jawaharlal Nehru: Socialism, Non-alignment
HS 2.2International RelationsCore (Hard Core)4Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Globalization and its Impact on States, United Nations: Structure and Functions, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU)
HS 2.3Theory of International PoliticsCore (Hard Core)4Approaches to International Politics, Power and Security in International System, Conflict, War, and Peace, Diplomacy and Foreign Policy Formulation, International Law and Global Governance
HS 2.4Political DevelopmentCore (Hard Core)4Meaning and Approaches to Political Development, Modernization and Underdevelopment Theories, Dependency Theory and World Systems Theory, Political Culture and Political Participation, Democratic Transitions and Consolidation
OE 2.5Constitution of IndiaElective (Open Elective)4Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Federalism in India: Union-State Relations, Amendment Procedures and Basic Structure Doctrine

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
HS 3.1Comparative PoliticsCore (Hard Core)4Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Political Analysis, Political Systems and Regimes, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems and Political Parties
HS 3.2Research MethodologyCore (Hard Core)4Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques and Ethics in Research, Data Analysis (Qualitative and Quantitative), Report Writing and Citation Styles
SC-ELEC-S3-01Human Rights and International Humanitarian LawElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Conceptual Framework of Human Rights, United Nations Human Rights System, International Humanitarian Law Principles, Refugee Law and Internally Displaced Persons, War Crimes and Crimes Against Humanity
SC-ELEC-S3-02Political EconomyElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Classical and Marxist Political Economy, Neoliberalism and Globalization, State-Market Relations in Development, International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank), Global Production and Labor
SC-ELEC-S3-03Geo-Politics of Indian Ocean RegionElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Geostrategic Importance of Indian Ocean, Maritime Security Challenges, Role of Major Powers in the Region, India''''s Maritime Doctrine and Diplomacy, Piracy, Terrorism and Environmental Security
SC-ELEC-S3-04Theories of State and SocietyElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4State: Origin, Nature and Functions, Liberal and Marxist Theories of State, Post-Colonial and Feminist Critiques of State, Civil Society and its Relationship with State, Globalization and the Changing Nature of State
SC-ELEC-S3-05Local Self Government in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution of Local Self Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure and Functions, Urban Local Bodies: Municipalities, Corporations, Challenges and Reforms in Local Governance
SC-ELEC-S3-06Social Movements in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Theories of Social Movements, Peasant and Tribal Movements, Dalit and Women''''s Movements, Environmental Movements in India, New Social Movements and their Impact
SC-ELEC-S3-07Gender and PoliticsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Gender as a Political Category, Feminist Theories of Politics, Gender and Political Participation, Gender Quotas and Representation, Patriarchy, State and Law
SC-ELEC-S3-08Political GeographyElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution and Scope of Political Geography, State and Territory, Geopolitics, Boundaries and Frontiers, Electoral Geography and Spatial Analysis, Impact of Geography on International Relations
SC-ELEC-S3-09Politics of Developing CountriesElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concepts of Development and Underdevelopment, Colonialism and Post-Colonial State, Democratization Challenges in Developing World, Role of Military in Politics, Political Instability and Ethnic Conflicts
SC-ELEC-S3-10Foreign Policy of IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its Evolution, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), Neighborhood Policy and SAARC, Economic Diplomacy and Multilateralism
SC-ELEC-S3-11Contemporary Debates in Political ScienceElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Post-Modernism and its Critique, Communitarianism vs. Liberalism, Global Justice Debates, Feminist and Green Political Theory, Deliberative Democracy and Pluralism
SC-ELEC-S3-12Democracy and Good GovernanceElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Theories of Democracy, Transition to Democracy and Consolidation, Concept and Indicators of Good Governance, Right to Information and Citizens'''' Charters, E-governance and Participatory Governance
SC-ELEC-S3-13Indian Constitution and ConstitutionalismElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Historical Background of Indian Constitution, Basic Structure Doctrine, Federalism and Quasi-Federalism, Parliamentary System vs. Presidential System, Judicial Review and Activism
SC-ELEC-S3-14E-GovernanceElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept and Models of E-Governance, E-Governance Initiatives in India, Challenges in E-Governance Implementation, Digital Divide and Citizen Participation, Privacy and Data Security Issues
SC-ELEC-S3-15Public PolicyElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Nature, Scope and Importance of Public Policy, Models of Public Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation and Evaluation, Role of State and Non-State Actors, Policy Analysis and Advocacy
SC-ELEC-S3-16Contemporary Political TheoryElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Rawls'''' Theory of Justice, Nozick''''s Entitlement Theory, Foucault''''s Power and Knowledge, Post-Structuralism and Deconstruction, Multiculturalism and Recognition
SC-ELEC-S3-17Politics of EnvironmentElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Environmentalism: Theories and Movements, Global Environmental Governance, Climate Change Politics and Policies, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Justice in India
SC-ELEC-S3-18Disaster Management and GovernanceElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept of Disaster and Disaster Cycle, Types of Disasters in India, Disaster Risk Reduction Strategies, Role of Government and NGOs in Disaster Management, Policy and Legal Framework for Disaster Management
SC-ELEC-S3-19Conflict Resolution and Peace BuildingElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Understanding Conflict: Causes and Dynamics, Theories of Conflict Resolution, Mediation, Negotiation, Diplomacy, Peace Building and Post-Conflict Reconstruction, Role of International Organizations in Peacekeeping
SC-ELEC-S3-20Area Studies: South AsiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Geopolitical Significance of South Asia, Political Systems of South Asian Countries, Regional Cooperation (SAARC) and Challenges, Inter-State Conflicts and Bilateral Relations, Terrorism and Security in South Asia
OE 3.5Peace and Conflict StudiesElective (Open Elective)4Concepts of Peace and Violence, Causes and Dynamics of Conflicts, Theories of Peace and Conflict, Non-violent Movements and Peacebuilding, Role of NGOs and Civil Society in Peace

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
HS 4.1Indian Political SystemCore (Hard Core)4Constitutional Framework and Basic Features, Federalism: Dynamics and Challenges, Parliamentary System: Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Electoral Process and Reforms, Political Parties and Pressure Groups
HS 4.2Modern Political AnalysisCore (Hard Core)4Behavioralism and Post-Behavioralism, Systems Theory and Structural Functionalism, Rational Choice Theory in Politics, Political Culture and Political Socialization, New Institutionalism and Policy Analysis
SC-ELEC-S4-01Public Policy and GovernanceElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Public Policy Cycle: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Theories and Models of Governance, New Public Management and Good Governance, Citizen Participation and Accountability, Policy Reforms in India
SC-ELEC-S4-02Politics of GlobalizationElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept and Dimensions of Globalization, Impact of Globalization on State Sovereignty, Global Governance and International Institutions, Anti-Globalization Movements, Globalization and India''''s Economic Policy
SC-ELEC-S4-03Electoral Politics in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution of Electoral System in India, Election Commission: Powers and Functions, Voting Behavior and Electoral Reforms, Role of Money, Media, Caste, Religion, Coalition Politics and Regional Parties
SC-ELEC-S4-04Human Rights and Social JusticeElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept of Social Justice, Human Rights vs. Social Rights, Affirmative Action and Reservations in India, Rights of Vulnerable Groups (Women, Children, Minorities), Legal Framework for Social Justice
SC-ELEC-S4-05Regionalism and State Politics in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept and Types of Regionalism, Demand for Statehood and Autonomy, Role of Regional Parties in Indian Politics, Inter-State Disputes and Water Sharing, Federal Bargaining and Center-State Relations
SC-ELEC-S4-06Politics of HealthElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Health as a Political Issue, Health Policy and Public Health System in India, Access to Healthcare and Inequalities, Role of WHO and Global Health Governance, Pharmaceutical Industry and Health Activism
SC-ELEC-S4-07Politics of Development and Planning in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution of Planning in India, Five-Year Plans and NITI Aayog, Development Models and Strategies, Poverty, Inequality and Human Development, Role of State and Market in Development
SC-ELEC-S4-08State, Society and Culture in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Interplay of State, Society and Culture, Caste, Religion, Language in Indian Politics, Secularism and Communalism, National Identity and Cultural Pluralism, Impact of Globalization on Indian Culture
SC-ELEC-S4-09International Political EconomyElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Theories of International Political Economy (IPE), Global Trade and Protectionism, International Monetary System and Finance, Multinational Corporations and Global Production, North-South Divide and Development
SC-ELEC-S4-10Gender and DevelopmentElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Gender and Development Paradigms, Women''''s Empowerment and Microfinance, Gender Mainstreaming in Policy, Violence Against Women and State Response, Sustainable Development Goals and Gender Equality
SC-ELEC-S4-11International OrganizationsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Theories of International Cooperation, United Nations System and its Specialized Agencies, Regional Organizations (OIC, African Union), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Global Governance, Future of International Organizations
SC-ELEC-S4-12Peace and Conflict StudiesElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concepts of Peace and Violence, Causes and Dynamics of Conflicts, Theories of Peace and Conflict, Non-violent Movements and Peacebuilding, Role of NGOs and Civil Society in Peace
SC-ELEC-S4-13Politics of Disadvantaged GroupsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept of Disadvantaged Groups, Politics of Caste, Tribe, Religion, Gender, Affirmative Action and Empowerment Policies, Rights of Minorities and Indigenous Peoples, Role of Civil Society in Advocacy
SC-ELEC-S4-14Science, Technology and PoliticsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Impact of Science and Technology on Society, Role of State in Promoting R&D, Ethical Dilemmas of Technology (AI, Biotechnology), Cybersecurity and Digital Governance, Science Diplomacy and International Cooperation
SC-ELEC-S4-15Indian Foreign Policy: Changing DynamicsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Look East/Act East Policy, India''''s Role in Multipolar World Order, Challenges from China and Pakistan, Energy Security and Diaspora Diplomacy
SC-ELEC-S4-16Media and PoliticsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Role of Media in Democratic Politics, Media as Fourth Estate, Media Ownership and Influence, Social Media and Political Mobilization, Censorship and Freedom of Press
SC-ELEC-S4-17Diplomacy and International NegotiationsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Concept and Types of Diplomacy, Negotiation Strategies and Tactics, Role of Ambassadors and Diplomatic Missions, Public Diplomacy and Cultural Diplomacy, Multilateral Diplomacy and Conference Management
SC-ELEC-S4-18Political Thinkers of KarnatakaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Historical Context of Karnataka''''s Political Thought, Basavanna''''s Philosophy of Social Justice, Kuvempu''''s Vishwamanava Concept, D. Devaraj Urs and Backward Classes Movement, Contemporary Political Thinkers from Karnataka
SC-ELEC-S4-19Energy PoliticsElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Geopolitics of Oil and Gas, Renewable Energy Transition and Policy, Energy Security Challenges, Climate Change and Energy Production, International Energy Organizations
SC-ELEC-S4-20Environmental Politics in IndiaElective (Soft Core - Student Choice, choose 2 from a pool of 40 across Sem 3 & 4)4Evolution of Environmental Concerns in India, Environmental Policies and Laws, Role of Environmental Movements, Forest Rights and Indigenous Communities, Urban Environmental Governance
HS 4.5Dissertation / Project WorkCore (Hard Core - Project)4Topic Selection and Literature Review, Formulation of Research Questions/Hypotheses, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation
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