Bachelor of Arts Honours (BA Hons.) Political Science
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3 Years
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Under Graduate
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Arts
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Full Time
3 Years
Under Graduate
Arts
Full Time
The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Honours (BA Hons. Political Science) is a three-year undergraduate program that explores the intricacies of political systems, theories, and institutions. Through this course, students gain insights into political thought, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration. The curriculum aims to develop essential skills such as analytical thinking, critical reasoning, and effective communication. By examining the complexities of governance and policy-making, the program prepares students for diverse career opportunities in fields like law, journalism, research, teaching, and civil services.
The Admission Process for BA Hons. Political Science is largely merit-based, with colleges considering a candidate's academic performance in their 10+2 exams. Additionally, some institutions require students to sit for an entrance exam. For example, colleges affiliated with Delhi University admit students based on their scores in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). The CUET for 2024 is scheduled between May 15 and 31, providing students with the chance to demonstrate their aptitude in English, reasoning, and general awareness. Prospective students need to stay informed about specific admission criteria and deadlines for their preferred colleges.
To be eligible for admission to a BA Hons. Political Science program, students must have completed their 10+2 education from a recognized board. Most institutions require English as a mandatory subject, and some may have a minimum percentage or grade point average threshold. A background in the humanities or social sciences can be beneficial, although it is not always a strict requirement. Candidates should review the specific eligibility criteria of their chosen colleges to ensure they meet the necessary academic qualifications.
The syllabus of BA Hons. Political Science covers a comprehensive range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, Indian government and politics, and public administration. Students engage in the critical analysis of political ideas, systems, and policies. The program also includes electives that allow students to explore areas of personal interest. Tuition fees for the program vary depending on whether the college is government-funded or private, ranging from INR 8,000 to 15,000 in government colleges and up to INR 1.8 lakhs in private institutions. Some of the top colleges offering BA Hons. Political Science includes Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Miranda House, Hindu College, and St. Xavier's College. Graduates from these programs possess a strong foundation for pursuing successful careers in multiple sectors.
| Duration | 3 years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 qualification |
| Admission Process | Merit/Entrance |
| Course Fee | INR 8,000 - 10,000 (Govt Colleges) |
| Average Starting Salary | INR 4 to 6 LPA |
| Job Positions | Public Relations and Fundraising Manager, Legislative Assistant, Researcher, Lawyer, Teacher, Journalist |
Below are the best institutes that offer the course in the United States with the locations that are in line with them and the fees for each institution for each.
| College | Admission Process | Average Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Hindu College | CUET | INR 22, 500 |
| LSR New Delhi | INR 19,000 | |
| Ramjas College | INR 14,156 | |
| Miranda House | INR 14, 160 | |
| Gargi College | INR 14,975 | |
| Presidency University | PUBDET | INR 6,000 |
| Ambedkar University | CUET | INR 61,000 |
| Christ University | Merit + GD/PI/Presentation | INR 1,01,000 |
| IPCW New Delhi | CUET | INR 27,825 |
The majority of universities and institutes providing the course in India adhere to the merit-based admission procedure. However, in the case of certain institutes admissions to the course are determined based on a candidate's performance in a pertinent written test, or an interview, or performance in a qualifying exam. The following table lists the most popular entrance examinations and their dates.
| Exam | Registration Dates | Exam Dates |
|---|---|---|
| CUET | February 2024 | May 15 - 31, 2024 |
| PUBDET | February 2024 | July 27 - 28, 2024 |
Candidates aspiring to BA Hons in Political Science Admission must satisfy the minimum eligibility requirements mentioned below.
• Candidates should have passed their 10+2
• They must achieve at least 50% marks in aggregate to be qualified for BA Hons Political Science Admission
• In the case of merit-based admissions, applicants must strive to achieve at least 80-90% aggregate marks to be able to make it onto the merit • lists. Likewise, for admissions based on entrance applicants must be able to pass an entrance exam like CUET, PUBDET, or similar.
A syllabus-wise breakdown of the syllabus for the course is listed below.
|
Semester I |
Semester-II |
|---|---|
| Colonialism in India | Nationalism in India |
| Understanding Political Theory | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates |
| Constitutional Democracy and | Political Processes in India |
| Government in India | Language (Credit) [concurrent courses] |
| Language (Qualifying) [concurrent courses] | NA |
|
Semester-III |
Semester-IV |
| Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Political Institutions and Processes in Comparative Perspective |
| Theories of Administration | Public Policy and Administration in India |
| Theories of International Relations and World History | Global Politics |
| Interdisciplinary [concurrent classes[concurrent courses | Discipline I [concurrent courses] |
|
Semester-V |
Semester-VI |
| Indian Political Thought-I | Indian Political Thought-II |
| Classical Political Philosophy | Modern Political Philosophy |
| Development Process and Social | India's Foreign Policy |
| Movements in Contemporary India | One Optional of the following |
| One Optional of the following | Contemporary Political Economy |
| Understanding South-Asia | Feminism and Indian Politics |
| The African Experience: Polity and Economy | The United Nations and Global Conflicts |
| Feminism Theory and Practice | State Institutions and Civil Society |
| Dilemmas in Politics | Organizations in India |
| Public Policy in India | Discipline II [concurrent courses]. |
Politics impacts virtually every aspect of our lives which includes the availability of housing, education, jobs, and health care. Teaching, research, and publishing are the most common jobs for a political scientist.
A few of the most sought-after professional opportunities available to graduates of this program are listed below, along with the salaries that are appropriate for the specific positions.
| Job Position | Job Description | Average Annual Pay Scale in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Analyst | Budget Analysts employ their math and analytical skills to provide advice to businesses, as well as municipal and federal government offices about how they can organize budgets. They also create and audit reports and use this information to provide recommendations to leaders of the organization. In the government sector, Budget Analysts may assist in the analysis of policy and guide lawmakers on budget regulations. | 2,95,493 |
| Public Relations and Fundraising Manager | Public Relations and Fundraising Managers are vital to the organizations they assist. Public Relations Managers are responsible for analyzing current economic, social, and political topics that have an immediate impact on the company. They also provide recommendations based on these developments that positively and directly improve the image of organizations in the eyes of the public. Fundraising Managers manage campaigns, develop strategies for fundraising, and organize events that can bring in donations for such campaigns. | 4,47,559 |
| Legislative Assistant | Senators, Assembly Members, Representatives, and all elected officials of the government at every level employ assistants to assist them in the performance of their tasks. | 2,55,347 |
| Political Scientist | Political Scientists analyze different aspects of the governmental system, such as the way cities, towns, and countries function and interrelate, as well as the ways they make policy choices. They research and analyze how government agencies as well as private organizations control power and react to change, and then offer possible solutions to the problems and issues that eventually occur. To help make informed recommendations, they analyze polls of public opinion as well as election results. They also analyze the way that changes to legislation could influence the social, political, and economic environment. | 9,50,000 |
| Political Campaign Manager | They supervise, manage, and delegate a variety of tasks to staff members as well as volunteers. Upon analyses of polls, they plan campaigns that include communication, marketing, PR as well as fundraising. Campaign managers are in charge of all the things their candidate says or performs. | 2,40,790 |
| Market Researcher | They gather information about the opinions of customers about products or services as well as manage research projects. Market Researchers also communicate with customers to help them understand the business goals. | 4,87,745 |
Q. What is a BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. BA (Hons.) in Political Science is an undergraduate program focused on the study of political systems, government structures, political theories, and international relations. The program examines the nature and operation of political entities, processes, and public policies.
Q. What are the eligibility criteria for a BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. Eligibility criteria may vary depending on the university or college offering the program. Generally, candidates need to have completed their higher secondary education (12th grade or equivalent) with a minimum required score or grade, often including specific subject requirements like Political Science, History, or Civics.
Q. What subjects are covered in BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. The curriculum usually includes subjects such as political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public administration, political philosophy, Indian government and politics, public policy, and political thought. Courses may also cover contemporary political issues and world politics.
Q. What career opportunities are available after completing a BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. Graduates can pursue a variety of career paths such as civil services, journalism, law, public administration, non-profit organizations, political consulting, policy analysis, international relations, diplomacy, teaching, and research.
Q. Is BA (Hons.) in Political Science a challenging program?
Ans. Like any academic program, BA (Hons.) in Political Science can be challenging due to the need for critical thinking, research, analysis, and writing skills. It involves studying complex political theories, systems, and current events, but with interest and dedication, students can excel in the program.
Q. What skills can I develop through a BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. Students can develop skills such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, effective communication, research and writing, understanding of political systems, public speaking, debate, and policy analysis.
Q. Can I pursue higher studies after completing BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. Yes, many graduates pursue further studies in the form of MA in Political Science, International Relations, Public Administration, or related fields. Some also choose to enter law school or pursue MBA degrees.
Q. Are there any extracurricular activities associated with BA (Hons.) in Political Science?
Ans. Universities and colleges often offer extracurricular activities such as Model United Nations, political debates, seminars, workshops, guest lectures, and political science clubs. These activities provide opportunities for students to engage with the subject matter outside the classroom.
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