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BA in Political Science at Vishwanath Rai Kakand Mahavidyalay
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Vishwanath Rai Kakand Mahavidyalay Deoria?
This Political Science program at Vishwanath Rai Kakand Mahavidyalay focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and governance, with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into historical movements, constitutional frameworks, and contemporary global politics. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, making it highly relevant for various roles in public service, research, and policy-making within the Indian socio-political landscape, addressing the continuous demand for informed citizens and administrators.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with an interest in public affairs, law, journalism, and civil services, seeking entry into administrative or policy analysis fields. It also benefits those aspiring to pursue higher education in political science or international relations. No specific prerequisite background beyond basic eligibility is required, encouraging a diverse cohort of students passionate about understanding societal structures and governance.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, UPPSC), journalism, public policy think tanks, NGOs, and advocacy. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in government or research sectors. The program''''s rigorous foundation can also align with preparations for competitive examinations and further academic pursuits, enabling a strong foothold in professional and academic realms.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (undefined)
Focus on understanding core political theories and constitutional concepts. Regularly read textbooks, engage in class discussions, and use online resources like eGyanKosh (IGNOU) for supplementary material. Create mind maps for complex theories to solidify your understanding of fundamental political ideologies and governmental structures.
Tools & Resources
eGyanKosh (IGNOU), NCERT Political Science books (Class XI/XII), Khan Academy (Civics/Government), Class discussion groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, providing the necessary depth for essay writing and analytical questions in various administrative roles.
Cultivate Regular Newspaper Reading Habits- (undefined)
Make it a daily ritual to read a national English or Hindi newspaper (e.g., The Hindu, The Indian Express, Dainik Jagran). Pay close attention to national and international political news, government policies, and judicial pronouncements. Take notes on key events and form opinions.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, The Indian Express, Dainik Jagran, Online news portals, Current Affairs magazines
Career Connection
This practice is indispensable for current affairs knowledge, vital for civil services exams, journalism, and effective participation in policy discussions. It enhances general awareness and critical analysis skills.
Engage in Academic Debates and Discussions- (undefined)
Actively participate in college debates, seminars, and group discussions on political topics. This helps in articulating ideas, listening to diverse perspectives, and developing persuasive communication skills. Form study groups with peers to discuss challenging concepts and review course material.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Departmental seminars, Study groups, Online forums for political discourse
Career Connection
Improved communication and analytical skills are highly valued in any profession, particularly in law, advocacy, media, and public relations roles, fostering leadership qualities early on.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Indian Political Thought and Governance- (undefined)
Beyond textbooks, delve into original writings or detailed analyses of Indian political thinkers like Gandhi, Nehru, Ambedkar, and Kautilya. Understand the nuances of India''''s governance challenges by studying case studies of policy implementation and local government initiatives. Engage with local NGOs or community projects to observe practical political science.
Tools & Resources
Original texts/biographies of thinkers, Journals on Indian politics, Government policy documents, Local NGOs (e.g., for rural development, education)
Career Connection
This deep dive provides a unique understanding of India-specific challenges, invaluable for roles in public administration, social work, and policy advising within the Indian context.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (undefined)
Collaborate with professors or peers on small research projects on local political issues, electoral trends, or public opinion. Learn to formulate research questions, collect basic data (surveys/interviews), and analyze findings. This builds foundational research methodology skills.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Basic statistical software (Excel), College library resources for academic journals
Career Connection
Developing research skills is vital for academic pursuits (MA, PhD), think tank roles, and data analysis positions in government and non-profit sectors, preparing for higher-level analytical roles.
Participate in Mock Civil Services Exams- (undefined)
As you progress, start taking mock tests for the General Studies papers of UPSC or state PSCs. This helps in understanding exam patterns, time management, and identifying areas for improvement. Join coaching institutes for mock tests or utilize online platforms.
Tools & Resources
Online mock test series (e.g., Vision IAS, Drishti IAS), Previous year question papers, Coaching centers offering test series
Career Connection
Directly prepares for highly sought-after civil service positions in India, offering a clear roadmap for career advancement in public administration and governance.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Specialization and Advanced Research- (undefined)
During semesters 5 and 6, identify your specific area of interest within Political Science (e.g., International Relations, Public Administration, Political Theory) and conduct an in-depth project or dissertation. Seek guidance from faculty on advanced topics and contribute to departmental research activities.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, ResearchGate (academic databases), Advanced political science textbooks, Faculty mentorship, Specialized journals
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes you a subject matter expert, highly desirable for roles in academia, policy analysis, and specialized research organizations, paving the way for advanced degrees or expert roles.
Network and Seek Internships- (undefined)
Actively seek internships with NGOs, political consultancies, local government bodies, or media houses. Attend workshops, seminars, and public lectures to network with professionals and faculty members. Build connections that can lead to mentoring and future job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College placement cell, Local government websites, NGO directories, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Practical experience and professional networks are critical for securing placements and understanding industry demands, leading to job offers or valuable references for career entry.
Refine Communication and Interview Skills- (undefined)
Practice public speaking, group discussions, and mock interviews tailored for government jobs, academic roles, or private sector positions. Work on structuring your thoughts, presenting arguments clearly, and confidently articulating your knowledge. Seek feedback from career counselors or faculty.
Tools & Resources
College career guidance cell, Online interview preparation platforms, Mock interview sessions, Toastmasters clubs (if available)
Career Connection
Exceptional communication skills are paramount for success in interviews and professional roles across all sectors, ensuring you can effectively convey your expertise and suitability for desired positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent examination from a recognized board/university.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) for BA Degree, up to 4 years for BA (Honours with Research)
Credits: 120-132 credits for 3-year BA Degree (Major in Political Science contributes substantially) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Major Core Course | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Constitutional Reforms (1909, 1919, 1935), Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 102 | Political Theory | Major Core Course | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Theories of State, Sovereignty and Power, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Citizenship, Democracy and its forms |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 201 | Comparative Government and Politics | Major Core Course | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions (UK, USA, China), Electoral Systems, Party Systems and Pressure Groups, Federalism and Unitary Systems |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 202 | Indian Political Thought | Major Core Course | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya), Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Nehru), Ambedkar''''s Social Justice Philosophy, Savarkar''''s Hindutva, Lohia''''s Socialism |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 301 | Western Political Thought | Major Core Course | 4 | Plato and Aristotle''''s Political Philosophy, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Social Contract Theorists (Locke, Rousseau), J.S. Mill''''s Liberty, Karl Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| MCC 302 | Principles of Public Administration | Major Core Course | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Public Policy Formulation and Implementation, Bureaucracy and its Role, Good Governance and E-governance |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCC 303 | International Relations | Major Core Course | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Foreign Policy Analysis, Globalization and its Impact |
| MCC 304 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Major Core Course | 4 | Scientific Method in Social Sciences, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
