Bachelor of Arts in Political Science: An Overview

The discipline of political science examines political systems, institutions, behavior, and power relations. Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science or B.A. Hons. Political Science is a popular undergraduate degree program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of political theories, concepts, and practices. This article provides a thorough summary of the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program, including its curriculum, career prospects, and skills. BA Political Science or Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is a 3-year undergraduate program. The course involves the study of both national and international political systems. During the course, students are taught historical and modern political systems, public administration, governmental policies and procedures, international relations, and public affairs.The basic eligibility is 10+2 or any other equivalent examination. The student must pass the 12th board examinations with at least 50% marks. The admission to the course is based on the CUET UG for several colleges. Colleges affiliated with Delhi University offer BA Political Science Admission based on a candidate’s CUET Scores.  Top BA Political Science Colleges are Hindu College, Delhi, Hansraj College, Delhi, Fergusson College, Pune, and St. Xaviers College, Mumbai. The average annual fee charged by colleges or universities may vary from INR 15,000 to INR 80,000. The fees charged by private and government institutes are different.BA Political Science syllabus provides students an opportunity to explore different dimensions of political science like theory and practice of politics and description and analysis of political system and political behavior. A fresh graduate of the course can easily expect a salary between INR 3 – 5 LPA initially. The salary increases with the increase in the level of experience. Students can go for a postgraduate course such as MA Political Science, MBA course, etc after completing their BA Political Science. 

BA Political Science Course Highlights

Why Study BA Political Science?

Over the past years, BA Political Science has emerged as one of the most preferred courses among students in India. There are many benefits of pursuing this course, some of which are given below.

• The course imparts in-depth knowledge about the various dimensions of political science like the study of government, law & order, socio-economic practices, etc..
• Students can find lucrative job offers in the government sector.
• The course opens up exciting career opportunities in various fields like Federal, state, and local governments, Law, Business and international organizations, Nonprofit associations and organizations, Electoral politics and polling, Journalism, Research, and teaching.
• Apart from seeking jobs, students who choose to pursue BA Political Science can further opt-out for higher education in the related field. Either way, their knowledge of the subject builds up.
• The course is a blessing for the students who aim to crack the civil services examination. The course helps them cover a major part of the entrance syllabus.

BA Political Science Admission Process 

• The admission process for BA Political Science remains similar for most of the colleges, here are the steps that are followed. 
• The admission to the course is based on merit or entrance exam.
• The application forms are released online on the official website of the college.

BA Political Science Eligibility Criteria 

• To apply for the BA Political Science, the students should fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
• The candidates should have passed class XII from a recognized board.
• The candidate should have scored at least 50% marks in their class XII final examination.
• Usually, the course is for students who have completed class XII with arts, but science and commerce students are also eligible.

BA Political Science Entrance Exams

• CUET
• PUBDET

BA Political Science Syllabus

Semester 1

• Understanding Political Theory
• Constitutional Government and Democracy

Semester 3

• Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics.
• Perspectives on Public Administration
• Perspectives on International Relations and World History

Semester 5

• Classical Political Philosophy
• Modern India Political Thought
• Lady Shri Ram College for Women
• Nalanda Open University
• Keshav University
• Ram Lakhan Singh Yadav College, Ranchi University
• Mewar University
• Bharati College
• Magadh Mahila College, Patna University
• Ahmedabad University
• Mata Sundri College for Women
• Pandit Deendayal Petroleum University
• GJ College Rambagh
• Akal University
• Magadh Mahila University

Semester 2

• Political Theory - Concepts and Debate
• Political Process in India

Semester 4

• Political Process and Institutions in Comparative Perspective
• Public Policy and Administration in India
• Global Politics

Semester 6

• Modern Political Philosophy
• Indian Political Thoughts
• Delhi
• Bihar
• Pitampura
• Ranchi
• Rajasthan
• Delhi
• Patna
• Delhi
• Delhi
• Gandhi Nagar
• Patna
• Bathinda

Top college of BA Political Science

• London School of Economics and Political Science
• Yale University
• Sciences Po
• Harvard University 
• Australian National University
• University of Ottawa
• University of Canberra
• Boston University
• University of Cambridge
• Princeton University 
• Stanford University
• University of Rochester
• Northwestern University

BA Political Science Jobs

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science curriculum

The Bachelor of Arts in Political Science program provides students with a broad and in-depth knowledge of the political world. The curriculum is designed to cover a variety of political science topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, and governance. Typically, the program lasts between three and four years, depending on the university or college.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Core Courses

The core courses of the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science include:

Political Theories and Ideas

Comparative Analysis of the Political System and Constitution of India

Relations Internationales

Public Administration and Administration

Political Sociology

Methodology and Techniques in Political Economy Research

Environmental Politics

Gender and Government

Citizen Rights and Human Rights

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Elective Courses

Included in the B.A. Honors in Political Science electives are:

Political Ideologies

Foreign Policy Examination

Studies Conflict and Peace

Globalization and Progress

Identity and Diversity Politics

Politics of Health and Social Services

The press and politics

Diplomacy and Discussion

Opinions of the Public and Voting Behavior

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Migration and Diaspora Politics

B.A. Honors in Political Science Career Prospects The B.A. Honors in Political Science program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities in the public and private sectors. Popular career options for graduates of this program include the following:

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Government Employment

Graduates of political science can pursue careers in a variety of government departments and agencies, including the civil services, foreign services, defense services, and intelligence services. They can also work as policy analysts, researchers, and consultants in government ministries, commissions, and organizations.

Political Research and Analysis

Political science graduates can work in political parties, think tanks, advocacy groups, and media organizations as political analysts, researchers, and consultants. They can provide insightful analysis and commentary on political issues, developments, and trends.

 Bachelor of Arts in Political ScienceJournalism

Graduates of political science can work as journalists, reporters, and editors for print, broadcast, and online media outlets. They can report on and analyze political events, debates, and campaigns, as well as political developments and policies.

 Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Law

Political science graduates can pursue legal careers as attorneys, judges, and legal consultants. They may specialize in constitutional law, international law, human rights law, or environmental law.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Education and Academics

Political science graduates can pursue academic and teaching careers. They are eligible for positions as professors, researchers, and instructors in universities, colleges, and research institutions. They can contribute to the growth of political science as a field and serve as mentors to the next generation of political scientists.

Skills Acquired Through a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honors

The B.A. in Political Science with Honors equips students with a variety of skills that are essential for success in a variety of careers. Among the skills acquired through this program are the following:

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Critical Reasoning and Evaluation

Students of political science are taught to think critically and to analyze intricate political issues and theories. They gain the ability to evaluate evidence, arguments, and hypotheses and to make informed decisions.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Skills in communication and composition

Students of political science learn to effectively communicate their ideas and write clearly and persuasively. They develop skills in information research, analysis, and presentation.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Investigation and Data Analysis

Students of political science learn to conduct research using a variety of methods and techniques, including questionnaires, interviews, and case studies. They gain expertise in data analysis and interpretation, as well as statistical software and tools.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Problem-Solving and Determination Abilities

Students of political science are taught to recognize problems and issues and to propose solutions and policies. They develop decision-making and negotiation skills, as well as teamwork abilities.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Leadership and Administration Abilities

Students of political science learn to direct and administer organizations, projects, and programs. They acquire proficiency in strategic planning, budgeting, and resource management, and work effectively in diverse and multicultural settings.

Advantages of Obtaining a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honors

There are numerous benefits to pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honors, including:

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Diverse Job Possibilities

Graduates of political science can pursue careers in numerous fields, including government, politics, media, law, business, and academia. They can work as analysts, researchers, consultants, journalists, attorneys, managers, and educators, among other positions.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Adaptability of Career Path

Political science graduates can choose from a variety of career paths and change careers based on their interests and aptitudes. They are able to work in various industries, organizations, and countries, thereby gaining a variety of perspectives and experiences.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science Preparation for Further Study

Graduates of political science can pursue advanced degrees, such as master's and doctoral programs, in a variety of fields, including political science, international relations, public policy, law, and journalism. They are able to specialize in areas of interest and advance their skills and knowledge.

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science FAQs

What is the difference between a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honors?

B.A. Political Science is a general degree program that covers numerous facets of political science, whereas B.A. Hons. Political Science is a specialized degree program that provides a comprehensive understanding of political theories, concepts, and practices.

What are the eligibility requirements for the B.A. in Political Science with Honors program?

Students are eligible to apply for this program if they have earned a minimum of 50 percent on the 10+2 or equivalent examination. Eligibility requirements vary from university to university.

What abilities are necessary for a career in political science?

A career in political science requires critical thinking and analysis, communication and writing skills, research and data analysis, problem-solving and decision-making skills, and leadership and management abilities.

What are the employment prospects for graduates of political science?

Graduates of political science can pursue careers in numerous fields, including government, politics, media, law, business, and academia. They can work as analysts, researchers, consultants, journalists, attorneys, managers, and educators, among other positions.

Can graduates of political science work in international organizations?

Yes,

B.A. Hons. Political Science is a bachelor level course in Political Science with duration of three years. Political science is the study of political values, policies, institutions, processes of people and societies. It is branch of social science that studies and analyzes the theory and practice of politics and political system. 

Various Types of Jobs after B.A. Hons. Political Science

• Campaign Organiser
• Teacher & Professor
• Career Counsellor
• Advocate
• Budget Analyst
• Legislative Analyst
• Corporate Public Affairs Advisor
• Research Analyst
• Political Commentator
• IAS, IPS & PCS Officers

Various Areas for Job after B.A. Hons. Political Science

• Public Relations Departments
• Colleges and Universities
• Intelligence Wings
• Law Firms
• Public Policy Organisations
• Consulting Firms
• Politics
• Diplomacy
• TV Channels
• UPSC

Annual Average Salary

• Budget Analyst  -  Rs. 2,95,493
• Public Relations and Fundraising Manager  -  Rs. 4,47,559
• Legislative Assistant  -  Rs. 2,55,347
• Political Scientist  -  Rs. 9,50,000
• Political Campaign Manager  -  Rs. 2,40,790
• Market Researcher  -  Rs. 4,87,745