BA Political Science is a 3-4 year full-time, UG degree. It imparts information on international relations, political theory, public policy, public administration and comparative politics. It is a purely descriptive course. Students learn about the Indian and Western political systems. At the end of the course, they have to submit a dissertation or project work, in some universities.
To be eligible for admission to the BA Political Science degree, students are required to have completed their 10+2 from a recognized board, with a minimum aggregate of 45% marks. Students belonging to the Commerce or Science stream can also apply for the course. However, having knowledge of political science or having studied Political Science at the +2 level would be useful for the student.
Admission to BA Political Science is generally merit-based. Certain institutes accept CUET scores, and others conduct their entrance tests. Often, a personal interview can also be scheduled. The top BA Political Science colleges offering this course are GITAM University, Kumaraguru College of Liberal Arts and Science, Hindustan University, Ramaiah College of Arts Science and Commerce, etc. After completion of a BA Political Science, students can work as political analysts, policy analyst, journalist, lawyer, and even enter the civil service. They can work as teachers and professors as well. The starting salary ranges from INR 3-5 LPA, which will increase depending on the years of experience.
- BA Political Science Highlights Table
- What is BA Political Science?
- Why Study BA Political Science?
- Who should study BA Political Science?
- BA Political Science Eligibility Criteria
- BA Political Science Entrance Exams
- BA in Political Science Colleges and Fees
- BA Political Science Admission Process
- BA Political Science Syllabus
- BA Political Science Job Opportunities in India
- BA Political Science Vs BA Public Administration
- BA Political Science FAQs
BA Political Science Highlights Table
BA Political Science seeks to provide in-depth knowledge regarding political systems, India, and abroad. The table below discusses the details of the course:
What is BA Political Science?
A BA in Political Science is a 3-4 year UG degree. It educates students on political processes, systems and structures. Students gain knowledge on how the political systems work in India and abroad.
- The candidates learn about Political Theory, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Public Administration, and Indian Political Thought.
- A BA in Political Science opens doors to multiple careers across sectors. Students can work as a Political analyst, policy analyst, journalist, lawyer, civil servant, teacher, researcher, or professor.
- Furthermore, the candidates can opt for an MA in Political Science or an MA in International Relations and Public Policy.
Why Study BA Political Science?
There are numerous reasons to opt for a BA Political Science. A few of these reasons are mentioned below:
- A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science enhances knowledge of political decisions and outcomes. It improves the students' analytical and communication skills.
- The candidates will be able to form well-informed opinions on political processes. Students can work across sectors and are employable in both private and public sectors.
- Students who wish to pursue a career with the Indian government can opt for this course.
- The candidates will be able to have a strong foundation in the core areas of political science, helping them in higher studies like MBA Public Policy or PhD Political Science.
Who should study BA Political Science?
The ideal candidates for a Bachelor of Arts Political Science are those curious about the policio-social environment of the world. A few potential candidates who can consider this course are:
- Students with a strong foundation in political science, and in the humanities in general can opt for this course.
- Students aspiring to appear for UPSC or SSC can pursue Bachelor of Arts Political Science, as it will enhance their knowledge.
- Students looking to work as political analysts and researchers can pursue this course.
- Students who enjoy theoretical learning more than hands-on training can apply for this degree.
BA Political Science Eligibility Criteria
To enroll in the Bachelor of Arts in Political Science degree in any university, the candidates are required to fulfill the eligibility requirements of the course, which are as follows:
- Passed class 10th and 12th with 45% marks from recognised boards.
- Candidates need to qualify for entrance examinations such as CUET-UG
- Candidates belonging to the reserved category will be provided with certain relaxations.
BA Political Science Entrance Exams
Some of the entrance exams for taking admission in the BA in Political Science course are given below:
BA in Political Science Colleges and Fees
Some of the top colleges in India, as per NIRF Rankings that are offering BA degree in Political Science, are listed below:
BA Political Science Admission Process
The admission process to BA degree in Political Science is mostly merit-based. Students must check the eligibility criteria and cut-offs of their preferred university before proceeding with Admission. Below, a step-wise admission process of Parul University, Gujarat is provided:
Step 1: Visit the official website of Parul University, and visit the UG admissions portal.
Step 2: Fill out the application form with basic personal details and qualification details. Choose your preferred programme.
Step 3: Upload a scanned copy of your passport photograph and signature.
Step 4: Pay the online application fee through NetBanking, debit card or credit card.
Step 5: The college will release a merit list based on the information provided by students.
Step 6: The candidates are required to move with the document verification process.
Step 7: The candidates are required to make the payment of the admission fee to secure their seat.
Documents Required
- Mark sheets: 10th, and 12th
- Identity proof: Aadhar Card, PAN card
- Entrance exam admit card and scorecard
- Signature
- Passport-sized photographs
BA Political Science Syllabus
The BA Political Science syllabus is based on descriptive knowledge of Political systems. It also comprises language courses and generic electives. Below the syllabus from Delhi University is provided:
BA Political Science Job Opportunities in India
A wide variety of employment opportunities are available to students of BA degree in Political Science.
BA Political Science Vs BA Public Administration
Bachelor of Arts Political Science constructs the theoretical and analytical framework of politics and governance, whereas BA Public Administration concerns itself with the practical side of pursuing policies in that framework.
BA Political Science FAQs
Can I pursue a BA Political Science distance education course?
Yes. Students can pursue a BA Political Science through distance or online mode. Several top colleges offer this program in online mode, making it flexible and convenient. The distance courses are equally recognized by the recruiters in various sectors.
What is the scope of the Political Science?
Political Science has a wide and multidimensional scope providing myriads of career opportunities in government, research, journalism, law, public administration, and international relations. The graduates are fit to work in civil services (or IAS, IPS and state public service commissions), at policy study, in the legislature, advocate, social work, and as a diplomat.
Can I do an MBA after BA in Political Science?
Yes, it is possible to do a MBA after a BA in Political Science. By completing an MBA, you may be able to supplement your political science degree with management, business, and leadership training so that you may have other career options within corporate affairs, marketing, human resources or public relations.
What are the jobs after BA Political Science?
Common jobs that the candidates can opt for are in civil services officer, political analyst, policy researcher, campaign manager, diplomat, journalist, public relations specialist, academic researcher, social worker and corporate legal or communication work.
What are the government job opportunities after a BA Political Science degree?
Students can work with the Indian national or state government after this course. They must appear for the different government exams. They can write UPSC, SSC, Railways, and other such exams.
What are the higher education prospects after a BA Political Science degree?
Students can pursue an MA Political Science or an MA in International Relations and Public Policy. This will lead to career growth in the political sector, and provide students with a competitive pay.
What is the difference between BA Political Science Hons and BA Political Science?
The difference is the knowledge gained. A BA Political Science Hons degree provides in-depth knowledge, while a BA Political Science may provide more information, but it may not be depth. Moreover, a BA Hons Political Science is preferred by employers and academic institutes too.
