The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science at Pragjyotishpur University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and critical understanding of political processes, institutions, and ideas, grounded in both global theoretical traditions and Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). The programme introduces students to foundational concepts in political theory, Indian politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public administration, while progressively building analytical and research skills.
The programme moves beyond a purely Eurocentric framework by integrating classical Indian political thought, indigenous governance practices, and civilizational perspectives with contemporary political analysis. The curriculum integrates normative, empirical, and interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to critically examine political institutions, processes, ideologies, and policies — with particular attention to India, the Northeast region, and India's intellectual traditions.
The programme aims to cultivate informed, critical, and socially responsible citizens capable of engaging with contemporary political challenges such as democratic governance, social justice, identity politics, development, and global transformations.
Upon completion of the B.A. in Political Science, students will be able to:
Understand core concepts, theories, and institutions in Political Science, including Indian government, political theory, and global politics.
Analyse political phenomena using theoretical frameworks and evidence-based reasoning.
Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of the Indian Constitution, political processes, federalism, electoral system, and governance.
Understand key concepts from Indian political thought such as dharma, rajdharma, artha, nyaya, and loka-samgraha, and their relevance to governance.
Compare political systems, institutions, and ideologies across different countries.
Apply introductory research methods, including data interpretation, case studies, and report writing.
Express political ideas clearly through written assignments, presentations, and discussions.
Recognise ethical dimensions in politics and uphold democratic values and constitutional principles.
Engage with issues such as gender, caste, ethnicity, environment, and development.
Participate effectively in group work and demonstrate leadership abilities in academic and social contexts.
Develop the capacity for continuous learning in response to changing political and social environments.
Acquire a clear understanding of key political concepts such as power, authority, legitimacy, sovereignty, justice, and rights.
Gain knowledge of political institutions, including the legislature, executive, judiciary, and administrative structures.
Understand the functioning of Indian democracy, including elections, party systems, public policy, and governance challenges.
Develop the ability to interpret political events, policies, and debates using theoretical and empirical tools.
Gain insight into the political dynamics, identity issues, and development challenges of Northeast India.
Understand and evaluate basic public policies and governance mechanisms.
Develop the ability to critique dominant Western paradigms and articulate alternative frameworks rooted in Indian knowledge traditions.