Political Science

Political Science is a branch of social science that teaches a student about the state, global politics and government. Not only in India but this course is one of the most opted courses around the world as well. Political Science specially deals with the working of the state, government, various agencies, and how one can use the theoretical knowledge about one’s country in the real or practical world for the betterment of the same.

Greek Philosopher Aristotle defined political science as “it is the course that deals with the study of the state.” The way politics is changing around the globe, people need someone who can tell them what is going on around them? We need people who can question every stage of politics and where it’s leading our country. Political scientists have become so important today that they can be seen participating in every political debate on every news channel.

Unlike, other courses like medical or engineering, a student from any academic background can learn the depths and insights of this subject.

Eligibility for Political Science

There are several universities in India who offer 3-year undergraduate political science course. After completing the bachelors a student can apply for post-graduation or Masters in Political Science.

The basic requirement to enroll in this course is qualifying XIIth and a student should have secured a minimum of 50 per cent in senior secondary.

Some top colleges for political science in India who offer this course are:

1. St. Stephen's College
2. Hansraj College
3. Hindu College
4. Christ University, Bangalore
5. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

There are some colleges that offer distance learning in Political Science for students or working professionals who want to continue their studies.

Remember, the eligibility criteria vary from college to college. For instance, if a student wishes to take admissions in any one of the colleges from University of Delhi that offer an undergraduate degree in political science it is based on the individual cut-offs each college releases. 

Course Duration and Fees

Undergraduate or B.A (Hons.) in Political Science is a three-year programme. After completing graduation you can go for further studies like Masters or post-graduation in political science course and after that M.Phil and Ph.D.

Fees- The average fees for this course is between Rs 5,000-80,000 (depends on the college you are applying to).

Courses Offered

BA in Political Science includes subjects like Indian Politics, Major Governments of the World, Public Administration, Nationalism in India, International Relations, International Politics, etc.

Career Options and Jobs

After graduating one can look for jobs in both government (public) and private sector. In the public sector one can look for jobs in the fields of:

• Civil Services (Indian Administrative Services, Indian Foreign Services)
• Bank Manager/Clerk
• Journalism
• Political Scientist
• Secretary to various government departments and agencies.
• Election and Campaign Manager
• Political content developer
• Teacher
• NGO

You can always go for a Masters in Political Science after that you are eligible to sit for the NET exam which opens other opportunities like Assistant Professor in colleges.

Salary

Salary depends upon the career you choose after finishing your graduation or post-graduation.

Q: Why study political science?

A: Studying Political science enables one to deepen his/her understanding of polices and laws of the land. Apart from the fact that a political science degree holder has a lot of opportunities in terms of employment, they can also pursue a bright career if they opt for higher studies.

Q: What are the major topics in political science?

A: Political science has many branches and sub-branches; majorly it includes topics like state politics, political economy, comparative politics, political philosophy and international relations.

Q: Is being a political science graduate enough to land a job in the concerned field?

A: There are job opportunities for Political science graduate in different government offices and in private sector organizations as well. However, it is advised to go for higher studies as it brightens the chances of getting jobs.

Q: Which are the top colleges that offer bachelor degree in political science in India?

Q: What are the fields where political science degree holders can apply for jobs?

A: Demand for political science experts are high in multiple fields. They can go on to pursue careers in journalism, education, law, communications, government, business, politics, etc.