Hey Anchita,

BA Hons Political Science is an undergraduate Political Science course. Political science is the branch of social science which deals with the state, government, and politics. The course basically deals with the study of theory and practice of politics, and the analysis of political systems and political behavior.

What topics you will be studying?

• Colonialism in India

• Understanding Political Theory

• Constitutional Democracy and Govt. in India

• Nationalism in India

• Political Theory: Concepts and Debates

• Political Processes in India

• Introduction to comparative govt. and Politics

• Theories of Administration

• Theories of International Relations and World History

• Political Institutions and Processes in Comparative Perspective

• Public Policy and Administration in India

• Global Politics

• Indian Political Thought I

• Classical Political Philosophy

• Development Process and Social Movements in Contemporary India

• One optional from the following:

-Understanding South-Asia

-The African Experience: Polity and Economy

-Feminism Theory and Practices

-Dilemmas in Politics. Public Policy in India

• Indian Political Thought II

• Modern Political Philosophy

• India’s Foreign Policy

• One optional from the following:

-Contemporary Political Economy

-Feminism and Indian Politics

-The United Nations and Global Conflicts

-State Institutions and Civil Society Organisations in India

CAREER OPTIONS AFTER B.A POLITICAL SCIENCE-

1) Civil Service: Civil service is a great option for BA graduates in Political Science. In fact, most students who aspire to become IAS officer opt for this course. Since questions from political science form an important part of the general science paper in the preliminary and main examination for civil services, it gives an edge to students who have studied political science at the undergraduate level.

2) Law: Political Science is related to the methods of governance and hence paves way for a career in law.

3) Journalism: A career in Journalism and Media is also a viable option for graduates in Political Science. More than 50% of news covered in media and newspapers is political in nature thus giving an advantage to BA Political Science degree holders for roles such as Political Journalist or Political Correspondents.

4) United Nations Organization: International Organizations like UNO, often hire political scientists across the world. A B.A in Political Science degree holder can apply for internship and other positions at various organizations of the United Nations. However, a higher degree in Political Science is required for the top-notch posts at the United Nations Organization.

5) International Relations: It focuses on studying one’s national policy with respect to the competitive world. It can way to enter the world of UNESCO/WHO and other international organizations.

6) Teaching: BA Political Science graduates can also find education as a prospective field of employment. While for teaching in schools, an additional B.Ed. the degree is helpful, for teaching at the university level passing UGC NET examination is the must.

7) Politics: It is an obvious choice for Political Science graduates. In the field of politics, you can make the career not just as a politician but also as a Political Analyst, Campaign Manager etc.

8) Other kinds of jobs such as Museum curator, Budget Analyst, Public Relations and Fundraising Manager, Legislative Assistant, Political Scientist, Political Campaign Manager, Market Researcher, Political consultants etc.

SALARY PROSPECTS WITH BA POLITICAL SCIENCE-

The average salary offered in India to BA graduates ranges between INR 2 and 10 Lacs per annum, depending upon the candidate’s experience and skills. But to get a higher salary and a better job, it is advisable that you go for a Masters and Ph.D. in your field.

In terms of jobs, Political Scientist has the highest salary compared to other career options. But that does not mean, you suffer in other employment areas, for instance, a govt. job has its own perks.

POLITICAL SCIENCE’S SCOPE ABROAD-

As it is mentioned above, if you get a job in international relations, the UN or even as an IFS officer, there are high chances for you to go abroad.

But if you want to get jobs in foreign universities or other employment areas then it is a lot more dependent on your experience and knowledge. Surely, if you have done remarkable research in your area then you can get a great job in a foreign country also.

I hope this helps. If you have any other doubt or query, feel free to ask.

All the best!