MA Political Science – Syllabus, Subjects, Eligibility & Jobs
September 25, 2025 2025-09-25 12:15MA Political Science – Syllabus, Subjects, Eligibility & Jobs
MA Political Science – Syllabus, Subjects, Eligibility & Jobs
A Master of Arts in Political Science (MA Political Science) is a two‐year postgraduate programme for students who want to study politics, governance, public policy, and society. This course helps students build critical thinking, research skills, and a strong foundation in political ideas. At Desh Bhagat University, this course is offered by the Department of Social Science.
In this article, you will learn about the MA Political Science syllabus, subjects, eligibility, career options, and advantages. If you are planning to study this course, this guide will help you understand all the important details easily.
What is MA Political Science?
MA Political Science is a postgraduate degree focused on political theories, systems, ideas, and institutions. In this course, students study how governments are formed, how decisions are made, how societies manage power, and how public policies affect lives. This degree opens doors to roles in academia, public service, analysis, and more. Let us now look at the syllabus and subjects.
MA Political Science Syllabus
The MA Political Science syllabus is divided into four semesters across two years. At Desh Bhagat University, the programme follows this standard structure. The syllabus is designed to give students both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of politics.
Below is a sample outline of how an MA Political Science syllabus may look. (Please check the exact subjects and credit details with the University for Confirmation.)
| Semester | Key Themes / Papers |
| Semester 1 | Introduction to Political Theory; Indian Political Thought; Comparative Government & Politics |
| Semester 2 | Public Administration; International Relations; Political Processes in India |
| Semester 3 | Research Methodology; State and Society; Contemporary Political Issues |
| Semester 4 | Public Policy & Governance; Conflict, Peace & Security; Elective + Dissertation / Project |
Each paper usually includes both theory and internal assessment. Along with classroom learning, the university may also add seminars, assignments, fieldwork, and a thesis or project in the final semester.
In brief, the MA Political Science syllabus aims to cover:
- Classical and modern political theories
- Institutions such as the legislature, executive, and judiciary
- Comparative politics and foreign policy
- Public administration and governance
- Research methods and skills
- Current issues like globalization, identity, conflict, and the environment
- A thesis or major project
This syllabus helps students build both strong theoretical knowledge and useful practical skills.
MA Political Science Subjects
During an MA in Political Science, you will study a wide range of subjects. These subjects are designed to give you a complete view of politics, governments, and society. The exact subjects may differ from one university to another, but the common ones include:
- Political Theory / Political Thought
Study ideas from great thinkers – from Plato and Aristotle to modern theorists like Marx, Rawls, and Habermas. - Comparative Government & Politics
Understand how different systems of government work, such as parliamentary, presidential, federal, and unitary systems. - Indian Government & Politics
Learn about the Indian Constitution, federal system, political parties, caste, tribes, and regional issues. - Public Administration & Governance
Focus on administration, bureaucracy, reforms, e-governance, and accountability. - International Relations
Study diplomacy, global institutions like the UN and WTO, foreign policy, and global security. - Political Processes & Institutions
Covers elections, political parties, pressure groups, civil society, and public opinion. - Research Methods in Political Science
Learn how to use qualitative and quantitative research, surveys, case studies, and data analysis. - State, Society & Development
Understand the link between state and society, development models, and the role of the welfare state. - Public Policy / Policy Analysis
Covers how policies are made, implemented, and evaluated. - Conflict, Peace & Security / Human Rights / Global Governance
Study topics like conflict resolution, peace-building, human rights, and global challenges such as climate governance. - Elective Papers
Students can choose optional subjects like Gender Politics, Media & Politics, or Regional Studies. - Dissertation / Project
Work on original research under faculty guidance on a specific topic of political science.
These subjects help students gain a balanced understanding of both theory and practice, preparing them for advanced studies or professional careers.
Eligibility & Course Structure
At Desh Bhagat University’s Department of Social Science:
- Eligibility: Graduation in any discipline with a minimum 45% marks in aggregate for the general category. For SC/ST/OBC, the minimum is 40%. In case a student has 45% in the subject itself, they may also qualify.
- Duration: The MA Political Science programme is 2 years (4 semesters).
- Programme Options: The Department of Social Science also offers an MA in other social sciences such as Sociology, History, Economics, etc.
The curriculum is likely to follow a mix of theory papers, core papers, electives, and a research project or thesis in the final semester.
Why Choose MA Political Science?
Pursuing MA Political Science has many advantages:
- It enhances critical thinking, analytical skills, and understanding of how societies and states function.
- You get a strong base to engage with public policy, governance, human rights, and international matters.
- The degree is flexible, allowing crossover into fields like journalism, law, civil services, NGOs, and academia.
- Through research, seminars, and projects, you build soft skills like writing, presentation, and data interpretation.
- It builds a foundation for further study, like a PhD or law degree.
At Desh Bhagat University, the Department of Social Science focuses not only on academics but also on research and real-world exposure through seminars, workshops, and projects.
Jobs after MA Political Science / MA Political Science Jobs
One of the central concerns of students is: What jobs after an MA in Political Science are possible? And what MA Political Science jobs are available?
Here is a list of potential jobs after an MA Political Science and roles you can aim for:
- Civil Services / Government Jobs
Many MA Political Science graduates appear for exams like UPSC (India), state public service commissions, etc. Roles include Administrative Services, Foreign Services, Revenue Services, etc. - Political Analyst / Researcher
Working with think tanks, research institutes, and policy groups. You analyze political trends, write reports, and make forecasts. - Public Policy Consultant
Consult with NGOs, government bodies, and international agencies on policy design and evaluation. - Academia / Lecturer / Professor
You can teach political science at colleges/universities. For this, you might also need a NET / SET or a PhD qualification. - Journalism / Media & Political Reporting
Work as a political reporter, commentator, editor, or analyst for newspapers, TV channels, or digital media. - Diplomatic Services / Foreign Affairs
Opportunities in diplomatic services or international organizations (UN, foreign embassies). - NGO / Civil Society Organizations
Work on social issues, advocacy, right to information, governance, human rights, and environment. - Public Relations / Corporate Affairs
Manage public relations for corporations, political campaigns, or governmental agencies. - Policy Maker / Legislative Assistant
Assist legislators, help in drafting bills, participate in governance, and serve in legislative research services. - Social Research / Data Analyst
Use your research skills to analyze data related to public opinion, social surveys, and electoral trends. - Corporate Sector / CSR Departments
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) divisions of companies often need people who understand policy, society, and governance.
Each of these MA Political Science jobs is viable depending on your skills, experience, and further qualifications.
How to Prepare for These Careers
To make the most of jobs after MA Political Science, here are some tips:
- Specialize / Focus: Choose electives or dissertation topics aligned with your career interest (e.g. public policy, international relations, electoral studies).
- Research & Publications: Publish articles in journals or newspapers. This builds credibility.
- Internships / Field Work: Intern in research institutes, NGOs, and government departments. Practical experience helps.
- Clear Competitive Exams: If aiming for civil services or academia, prepare for exams like UPSC, NET/SET.
- Learn Quantitative Tools: Knowledge of statistics, data analysis, and software (SPSS, R) adds value.
- Communication Skills: Work on writing, speaking, and debate—important for almost all careers.
- Networking: Attend seminars, conferences, and connect with professionals in your field.
- Stay Informed: Keep up with current affairs, global politics, and policy changes.
Strengths & Challenges of MA Political Science
It is good to know both sides before choosing a path.
Strengths:
- Wide applicability across sectors (public, private, nonprofit)
- Deepening critical and analytical thinking
- Exposure to multiple disciplines (history, law, economics, sociology)
- Flexibility in career paths
- Good preparation for research or higher studies
Challenges:
- Competition in government / civil service jobs is high
- Some roles demand extra qualifications (e.g. PhD or NET)
- Translating theoretical knowledge into practice can be difficult
- Salaries in early career may be modest compared to technical fields
If you are motivated, complement your degree with skills and experience to succeed.
Why Do This MA at Desh Bhagat University?
Since you asked to use information from the given university link, here are reasons why doing MA Political Science at Desh Bhagat University is a good choice:
- The Department of Social Science offers a full suite of PG programmes, including MA Political Science.
- The university has clear eligibility criteria and a 2-year structure.
- Students gain access to departmental resources, faculty guidance, seminars, research environment.
- As part of a university committed to social sciences, you may benefit from interdisciplinary exposure (with programs like MA Sociology, MA History, etc.)
- The academic environment is designed to support the holistic growth of students in the social sciences.
You should check the detailed syllabus, faculty, infrastructure, and research support available in the department to make a final decision.
Tips to Write a Strong Application / Statement
If you are applying for the MA in Political Science, here are some tips to strengthen your application:
- Emphasize your interest in politics, public affairs, or current events.
- Highlight any prior experience (volunteering, debates, internships).
- Show academic strength, especially in social sciences or humanities.
- Write a clear statement of purpose: why MA Political Science, and what is your future goal?
- If you have done a mini research project or dissertation as an undergraduate, mention it.
- Demonstrate general awareness of political issues and research ideas.
Conclusion
In summary:
- MA Political Science is a two‐year postgraduate program, combining theory, research, and application.
- The MA Political Science syllabus includes political theory, comparative politics, public administration, international relations, research methods, and a dissertation/project.
- Core MA Political Science subjects cover a broad spectrum, giving you conceptual and analytical tools.
- You can pursue many MA Political Science jobs and jobs after MA Political Science: civil services, research, teaching, policy, media, NGOs, etc.
- At Desh Bhagat University, eligibility is a graduate in any discipline with minimum marks, and the duration is 2 years.
- To succeed, combine strong academics, research, internships, exam preparation, and good communication skills.
FAQs
1. What is MA Political Science?
MA Political Science is a postgraduate degree of two years. It teaches students about government, politics, public policy, and international relations. The course focuses on how power works in society and how decisions are made. It is useful for jobs in teaching, research, civil services, journalism, and many other areas.
2. What is the eligibility for MA Political Science?
To take admission in MA Political Science, a student must have completed graduation in any subject from a recognized university. The minimum marks required are usually 45% for general category students and 40% for reserved categories. Even if you scored 45% in Political Science as a subject, you may be eligible.
3. How long is the MA Political Science course?
The MA Political Science course is two years long. It is divided into four semesters. Each semester has different subjects and papers. The first three semesters usually cover theory, research, and methods. The last semester often includes electives, seminars, and a dissertation or project to give practical learning experience.
4. What is taught in the MA Political Science syllabus?
The MA Political Science syllabus includes subjects like Political Theory, Indian Politics, Comparative Politics, Public Administration, International Relations, and Research Methods. Students also study public policy, conflict resolution, and human rights. In the final semester, most universities ask students to complete a dissertation or major research project.
5. What are the main MA Political Science subjects?
The main MA Political Science subjects are Political Thought, Comparative Politics, Indian Government and Politics, Public Administration, International Relations, and Research Methodology. Other subjects include Public Policy, State and Society, and electives like Gender Politics or Media and Politics. A research dissertation is also a very important subject.
6. What jobs can I get after MA Political Science?
There are many jobs after MA Political Science. Students can become teachers, lecturers, or researchers. They can also work in civil services, public administration, political analysis, journalism, and NGOs. Many graduates also work in think tanks, foreign affairs, policy-making, corporate social responsibility, or as consultants in governance projects.
7. Is MA Political Science useful for competitive exams?
Yes, MA Political Science is very useful for competitive exams like UPSC, State Civil Services, and UGC-NET. The course covers subjects like Indian Politics, International Relations, and Political Theory, which are important for exams. Students gain strong knowledge and analytical skills that help in both the written and interview stages.
8. Can I study PhD after MA Political Science?
Yes, after MA Political Science, you can study further and do MPhil or PhD in Political Science. A PhD allows you to specialize in one topic, such as Indian Politics, International Relations, or Public Policy. With a PhD, you can become a professor, researcher, or academic writer in universities.
9. What skills will I learn in MA Political Science?
In MA Political Science, you learn research skills, analytical thinking, critical writing, and communication. You understand how governments work and how policies are made. You also gain knowledge about international issues, elections, and public opinion. These skills help in both academic careers and professional jobs in the government and private sectors.
10. Why should I choose Desh Bhagat University for MA Political Science?
Desh Bhagat University offers MA Political Science under its Department of Social Science. The course has a strong syllabus, experienced faculty, and research opportunities. The university also focuses on holistic development through seminars, projects, and field exposure. This helps students build knowledge, confidence, and career opportunities in many fields.
