BA (Hons.) - Political Science

The BA (Hons.) Political Science program at UPES School of Liberal Studies is a globally recognized and comprehensive four-year undergraduate degree that offers students a solid foundation in Political Science and Public Policy. The program goes beyond traditional boundaries by encouraging the exploration of synergies with allied disciplines like history, economics, and sociology. By integrating case studies and field-based research, students gain a profound understanding of the intricacies of their surroundings.

This transdisciplinary approach is a hallmark of the program, emphasizing the interconnections between various social science disciplines and sub-fields of Political Science, including contemporary Indian politics, comparative politics, political economy, climate, and international relations. The curriculum is designed to address the complexities of real-world challenges, fostering critical thinking skills and an understanding of the interconnectedness of socio-political and economic issues. The internationally recognized faculty employs contemporary methodologies to equip students with the ability to analyze causalities and processes, empowering them to propose effective solutions.

With a total of 54 credits for core courses, the program provides students with a strong academic foundation. Moreover, students have the flexibility to choose a second major from allied disciplines such as history or economics, enhancing the program's versatility and ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. The availability of a wide array of elective courses within the program and the school further allows students to tailor their academic journey to their interests. This holistic approach not only prepares students for higher studies but also equips them for diverse career opportunities in the industry, making the BA (Hons.) Political Science program at UPES School of Liberal Studies is a pathway to academic and professional success.

• The BA (Hons.) Political Science program offers dedicated mentorship for students applying to MA and PhD programs in the top 250 global universities, collaborating with UPES' career services to guide applications and providing ongoing support for those choosing non-academic careers.
• A unique research opportunity is provided through the Archival Ideation Lab, situated at UPES, offering hands-on training in original research methods using documents spanning the eighteenth century to contemporary times, many of which are exclusive and unavailable in any single global repository.
• Led by research-oriented students, Swapaksha is a debating society fostering discussions on policies and ideas. It hosts debates, and roundtables, and publishes a biannual webzine featuring outstanding student write-ups, aiding students in refining their research arguments and preparing for discussions and interviews.
• In the eighth semester, students are placed as fellows in various sectors, including Vidhan Sabhas, State Archives, NGOs, Embassies, think tanks, and Museums. This hands-on experience enhances practical knowledge and prepares students for roles in both public and private sectors.
• Recognizing diverse career paths, the faculty continues to mentor students not interested in academia, assisting them in securing industry-specific roles through UPES' career services.
• The BA (Hons.) Political Science program integrates a comprehensive approach to debating and research skills through activities organized by Swapaksha, ensuring students are well-prepared for group discussions, and academic, and industry-related interviews.

The future scope of the BA (Hons.) Political Science program is promising, as it equips students with a comprehensive understanding of core political science and public policy theories. The curriculum delves into the complexities of Indian politics, democratic institutions, citizenship, gender, and contemporary social, political, economic, and policy issues in India. Additionally, students explore international relations, climate, and sustainability. This program enables students to identify and address challenging policy and governance issues, fostering the ability to think creatively and develop innovative solutions. As the curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of relevant topics, graduates emerge well-prepared to navigate the evolving landscape of political and policy issues, making them valuable contributors to addressing the pressing challenges of the modern world.

The BA (Hons.) Political Science program offers practical and solution-oriented education, opening doors to diverse career paths. Graduates can excel in the private sector, industry, government policy roles, and non-governmental think tanks. The hands-on training and faculty mentorship prepare students for prestigious MA/PhD positions at globally renowned institutions. In India, Political Science is crucial for public and administrative services, making this program at the School of Liberal Studies an ideal choice for those aiming at civil services careers.

The BA (Hons.) Political Science program at UPES ensures promising placements for its graduates, equipping them with a comprehensive understanding of political systems and critical analytical skills. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights, preparing students for diverse career paths. UPES maintains strong industry connections, fostering collaborations with renowned organizations. As a result, graduates of the BA (Hons.) Political Science programs benefit from a wide array of placement opportunities in government agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and corporate sectors. The university's dedicated placement cell plays a pivotal role in facilitating internships and job placements, providing students with the necessary exposure and networking opportunities to kickstart their professional journeys in the dynamic field of political science.

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Interested students must fulfil the prescribed minimum eligibility criteria for BA (Hons.) Political Science: 50% in 10th & 12th Any Stream.

The selection criteria for students who wish to pursue a BA (Hons.) Political Science at UPES depends on the individual's performance in Personal Interview / Valid SAT Score / CUET.

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