A degree programme that studies political theory, systems, institutions, and behaviour is a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science. Students who complete this programme will have a solid background in political science and the knowledge and analytical abilities to comprehend and evaluate political institutions and occurrences. This article will discuss a BA Hons in Political Science, its coursework, potential job paths, and the advantages of obtaining such a degree.
| Course type | Bachelor |
| Full Form | Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with Honours |
| Duration | 3 Years |
| Eligibility | 10+2 passed with minimum 50 % marks |
| Course Fees | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 1,00,000 |
| Average Salary | ₹ 3,00,000 – ₹ 5,00,000 LPA |
| Job Types | Teacher, HR Assistant, Corporate Communications Manager, Senior Technical Writer, Office Administrator |
| Job Opportunity | Amazon.com Inc, ICICI Bank Ltd, Cognizant, AON Corporation, Viacom Inc, Concentrix Corporation |
What is a BA Hons in Political Science Degree?
A BA Hons in Political Science is an undergraduate degree programme that emphasises the study of political theory, systems, institutions, and behaviour. Students who complete this degree programme will have a thorough understanding of the fundamental theories and concepts of political science, including democracy, power, government, and international relations. Additionally, it helps students develop their writing and research skills as well as their analytical and critical thinking abilities. They also gain a thorough awareness of political concerns both past and present.
A variety of topics, including political theory, international relations, comparative politics, public administration, public policy, and research methodologies, are covered in the extensive course selections that make up the BA Hons in Political Science degree. Students also have the choice to concentrate on a subject of interest, like global, American, European, or Middle Eastern politics. Lectures, seminars, group debates, and individual research projects are just a few of the intellectual and practical components that are frequently included in the curriculum.
Also Read: Courses after 12th Arts with High Salary
BA Hons in Political Science: Eligibility
In India, there are numerous colleges, universities, and organisations that provide BA Hons in Political Science degrees. However, candidates must apply for CUET with the necessary combination needed for the specific universities that they are considering before submitting an application for admission to the best colleges for a BA in political science. A student must obtain a minimum overall score in the XII Boards exam from an accredited institution, as specified by the specific university or college, in order to enrol in this programme. Along with this, candidates must have selected the appropriate topic combination while submitting their CUET applications.
Even though the BA Hons in Political Science eligibility requirements differ from college to college, for instance, if a student wants to enrol in a college that is a part of Delhi University (DU), the requirements would be based on whether or not the candidate took Political science in their class 12th and their CUET entrance exam score.
BA Hons in Political Science: Admission Process
Most universities and colleges continue to use a similar admissions procedure for BA Honours Political Science. The steps to take are listed below:
- Candidates’ CUET scorecards are used to determine if they will be admitted to BA Political Science Hons programmes at the 200+ participating universities.
- Every year, the application forms are released in the months of February and April.
- Both the application process and exam format are conducted entirely online.
- Before the time frame, students must conclude the application form.
- Universities and colleges publish their respective cut-offs for BA Political Science Honours after the CUET results are announced.
- According to the merit list, a student is admitted if his or her combined CUET score meets the cut-off requirement set by the college.
BA Political Science: Top 10 Colleges in India
Here is the list of the 10 top colleges in India:
| Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi |
| St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi |
| Hindu College, New Delhi |
| Presidency College, Kolkata |
| Loyola College, Chennai |
| Mount Carmel College, Bangalore |
| Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi |
| University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad |
| Miranda House, New Delhi |
| Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara |
BA Hons in Political Science: Fees Structure
Depending on the university, the location, and the length of the programme, there may be substantial differences in the fee for a BA Hons in Political Science programme in India. The fees of this programme at some of the top Indian colleges are broken down generally as follows:
| College/University | Fees |
|---|---|
| Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi | ₹ 14,000 |
| St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi | ₹ 17,000 |
| Hindu College, New Delhi | ₹ 12,000 |
| Presidency College, Kolkata | ₹ 5,000 |
| Loyola College, Chennai | ₹ 50,000 |
| Mount Carmel College, Bangalore | ₹ 40,000 |
| Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi | ₹ 1,000 |
| University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad | ₹ 10,000 |
| Miranda House, New Delhi | ₹ 14,000 |
| Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, Vadodara | ₹ 2,000 |
It’s vital to remember that these fees could change and differ depending on the institution and the admittance year. On the basis of merit or need, certain universities may also grant scholarships or fee waivers to qualified students. For the most recent and accurate information on fees and financial aid, it is therefore advised that you visit the institution’s official website before applying.
BA Hons in Political Science: Syllabus
Here is the list of the BA Political Science Syllabus:
| Semester I | Semester II |
|---|---|
| Government in India | Nationalism in India |
| Understanding Political Theory | Political Processes in India |
| Colonialism in India | Language (Credit) [concurrent courses] |
| Constitutional Democracy and | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates |
| Language (Qualifying) [concurrent courses] | — |
| Semester III | Semester IV |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Comparative Government and Politics | Political Institutions and Processes in Comparative Perspective |
| Theories of International Relations and World History | Global Politics |
| Theories of Administration | Public Policy and Administration in India |
| Interdisciplinary [concurrent courses] | Discipline I [concurrent courses] |
| Semester V | Semester VI |
|---|---|
| Indian Political Thought-I | Indian Political Thought-II |
| Development Process and Social | India’s Foreign Policy |
| Classical Political Philosophy | Modern Political Philosophy |
| Movements in Contemporary India | One Optional from the following |
| One Optional from the following | Feminism and Indian Politics |
| Dilemmas in Politics | State Institutions and Civil Society |
| Feminism Theory and Practice | Discipline II [concurrent courses]. |
| Understanding South-Asia | Organizations in India |
| Public Policy in India | The United Nations and Global Conflicts |
| The African Experience: Polity and Economy | Contemporary Political Economy |
Who Should Pursue BA Political Science
For those who are really interested in politics, government, international relations, public policy, and related disciplines, a BA Hons in Political Science programme is a great option. Indicators suggesting a BA Political Science programme would be the best option for you include the following:
Interest in Politics: The BA Hons in Political Science programme is a great option if you have a keen interest in politics and want to learn how political systems function. You will gain a thorough understanding of various political ideologies, political systems, and political behaviour through this programme.
Good analytical skills: Research-based fields like political science necessitate adept analytical abilities. Students who are adept at information analysis, pattern recognition, and drawing inferences from data might do well in this programme.
Good communication skills: Another branch of political science deals with the efficient exchange of ideas. To convey their ideas on political theories, debates, and policies, students must be competent communicators.
Interest in public service: Politics, policymaking, the civil service, journalism, international organisations, NGOs, and think tanks are just a few of the public sector careers available to political science graduates. This programme would give you the knowledge and abilities you need if you have a strong desire to serve the public good and contribute positively to society.
Critical thinking: The study of political science promotes analytical reasoning. This programme will provide you with the tools and techniques to strengthen your critical thinking skills if you have an inquisitive mind and want to challenge the status quo.
To sum up, students who are interested in politics, public service, critical thinking, and research-based disciplines may consider enrolling in a BA Hons in Political Science programme. This course gives students a solid foundation on which to build their knowledge and abilities, and it can open up a variety of intriguing professional prospects.
Why you should Pursue BA Hons in Political Science
You should select a BA Political Science programme for a number of reasons. The following are some major benefits of enrolling in this programme:
Comprehensive Understanding of Politics: An extensive understanding of politics, government, international relations, and public policy is provided by a BA Hons in Political Science programme. Students study different political philosophies, political systems, and political behaviour.
Development of Analytical Skills: Strong analytical abilities are necessary for the research-based field of political science. Through information analysis, pattern recognition, and conclusion drawing using data, students in this programme hone their analytical skills.
Enhancement of Communication Skills: Effective communication of ideas and concepts is another focus of political science. Students who enrol in this programme improve their communication abilities by expressing their opinions and ideas regarding political theories, laws, and debates.
Preparation for Public Service: Politics, policymaking, the civil service, media, international organisations, NGOs, and think tanks are just a few of the public service professions where political science graduates can find employment. By giving them the required knowledge and abilities, this programme gets students ready for a future in public service.
Development of Critical Thinking: Critical thinking and analysis are encouraged in the study of political science. By challenging the established quo and looking at political topics from various angles, students who pursue this programme hone their critical thinking skills.
Flexibility: Students have freedom while choosing courses and career pathways through a BA Hons in Political Science programme. International relations, comparative politics, political theory, public policy, and political economics, among other fields, are available for students to choose from as areas of specialisation.
Career Opportunities: The public and private sectors offer a wide variety of professional prospects to BA Hons Political Science graduates. In addition to media, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, and politics, they can pursue professions in these fields as well as civil service, journalism, and policy-making.
A BA Hons in Political Science programme is a good option for students interested in politics, public service, critical analysis, and research-based disciplines. Students will have a solid basis upon which to build their knowledge and skills after finishing this degree, opening up a wide range of fascinating employment prospects.
Career Opportunity after BA Hons in Political Science
Multiple job prospects in the public and private sectors are made possible with a BA Hons in Political Science degree. Listed below are some of the common career options for programme graduates:
| Career | Description |
|---|---|
| Civil Services | For civil service employment in governmental organisations, ministries, and administrative bodies, BA Hons in Political Science graduates are ideally suited. They are eligible to apply for jobs with the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Police Service (IPS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), as well as other related services. |
| Politics | Graduates of political science can get into politics by running for office or serving as a manager or advisor for a political campaign. As political analysts, pundits, or journalists, they are also employable. |
| Public Policy Analyst | Graduates can work for governmental agencies, non-profit organisations, think tanks, and advocacy organisations as policy analysts, research associates, or policy advocates. |
| International Organizations | Graduates in political science have the chance to work for international organisations like the United Nations (UN), World Trade Organisation (WTO), World Bank, and others, offering policy analysis, research, and consulting services. |
| Law | Graduates in political science who desire to work in the legal sector can pursue additional legal study and become solicitors or legal consultants. |
| Academia | Graduates can pursue further education to work in academia as professors or researchers in political science or a closely connected topic. |
| Journalism | Graduates of political science programmes can choose to work as journalists or reporters who cover political news for print, television, and online media sources while analysing policy and following political trends. |
| Business and Consulting | Business and consulting: Graduates who work in the private sector as managers, analysts, or consultants can give strategic direction to corporations, consulting firms, and financial institutions. |
Finally, graduates with a BA Hons in Political Science have a variety of professional opportunities across several industries. The programme prepares graduates for employment in law, academics, journalism, business, public policy, international organisations, and politics, among other professions.
BA Politics Science: Salary
The pay for a BA Hons in Political Science graduate in India varies according to the position held and the industry they work in. Following are some common job titles and the associated income ranges:
| Job Profile | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Civil Services | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 2,00,000 p.m. |
| Public Policy Analyst | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 1,50,000 p.m. |
| International Organizations | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 5,00,000 p.m. |
| Law | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 5,00,000 p.m. |
| Academia | ₹ 40,000 – ₹ 2,00,000 p.m. |
| Journalism | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 2,00,000 p.m. |
| Banking and Finance | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 2,00,000 p.m. |
| Human Resources | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 1,00,000 p.m. |
| Business and Management | ₹ 20,000 – ₹ 1,00,000 p.m. |
| Foreign Service | ₹ 50,000 – ₹ 2,50,000 p.m. |
In conclusion, a BA Hons in Political Science graduate’s pay in India differs according to their position and industry. However, this programme is a favourite among students because graduates can anticipate a competitive income range across many industries.
FAQ on BA Hons in Political Science
Question 1. What is BA Hons in Political Science?
Answer. A BA Hons in Political Science is a three-year undergraduate degree program that provides a comprehensive study of the principles and practices of politics and government. It covers a wide range of topics, including political theory, comparative politics, international relations, public policy, and political thought. Students who pursue a BA Hons in Political Science develop critical thinking, analytical, and research skills that are valuable in a variety of careers.
Question 2. What are the benefits of studying BA Hons in Political Science?
Answer. There are many benefits to studying BA Hons in Political Science, including:
- Develop a deep understanding of politics and government: This degree will provide you with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of politics and government. You will learn about the different forms of government, the role of political parties, the impact of public policy, and the challenges facing democracies around the world.
- Gain critical thinking, analytical, and research skills: Political science is a rigorous discipline that requires you to think critically, analyze information, and conduct research. These skills are valuable in a wide range of careers, not just in politics and government.
- Prepare for a variety of careers: A BA Hons in Political Science can open doors to a variety of careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. You could work as a political analyst, policy advisor, journalist, lawyer, or even run for office yourself.
Question 3. What are the core subjects in a BA Hons in Political Science program?
Answer. The core subjects in a BA Hons in Political Science program typically include:
- Political theory: This course will introduce you to the major political thinkers and theories, from Plato and Aristotle to Marx and Machiavelli.
- Comparative politics: This course will examine the different forms of government and political systems around the world.
- International relations: This course will explore the relationships between states, including diplomacy, conflict resolution, and global governance.
- Public policy: This course will study the process of making and implementing public policy.
- Political thought: This course will examine the history of political thought, from ancient times to the present day.
Question 4. What are the career prospects for BA Hons in Political Science graduates?
Answer. BA Hons in Political Science graduates are well-prepared for a variety of careers in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Some of the most common career paths for graduates include:
- Political analyst: Political analysts research and analyze political data to provide information and insights to policymakers, the media, and the public.
- Policy advisor: Policy advisors develop and recommend public policy solutions to government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
- Journalist: Journalists research, write, and report on political news and events for newspapers, magazines, television, and online media.
- Lawyer: Lawyers represent clients in legal matters, including cases involving government regulations, civil liberties, and international law.
- Politician: Politicians run for office and hold elected positions in government, where they develop and implement public policy.
These are just a few examples of the many career paths available to BA Hons in Political Science graduates. With hard work, dedication, and relevant experience, graduates can find rewarding careers in a variety of fields.
Question 5. What are the admission requirements for BA Hons in Political Science programs?
Admission requirements for BA Hons in Political Science programs vary depending on the institution, but typically include:
- Academic transcripts: Applicants will need to submit their academic transcripts from high school or previous post-secondary education.
- Letter of recommendation: Applicants may be required to submit one or two letters of recommendation from teachers, counsellors, or other professionals who can speak to their academic abilities and character.
- Personal statement: Applicants will typically be required to write a personal statement explaining their interest in political science and their career goals.
- English language proficiency test: Applicants who are not native English speakers may be required to submit scores from an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
In addition to these general requirements, some institutions may have specific requirements for certain programs or concentrations. It is always best to check with the admissions office of the institution you are interested in for specific requirements.
