DEEP DIVE INTO

POLITICAL SCIENCE
AND
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Presented by
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Introduction
Political science focuses on the theory and practice of government
and politics at the local, state, national, and international levels.

Now the advent of the subjects as a field of study is quite

interesting. Even though social sciences weren't academically
recognized as such until the 1800s, the concept of Political Science
has been around since ancient times. Ancient Greek thinker Aristotle
is really credited with begetting the expression "Political Science." In
ancient times, this type of political thought, considered to be
synonymous with the discipline of political philosophy, was a guide
for rulers on the most proficient method to oversee their subjects
and people. Aristotle’s thoughts were drawn from his inference that
legislatures should try to profit from the general prosperity of a
populace, rather than that of specific people.

As the times advanced we got to see a more structured

understanding of governments and their affairs. This was also aided
because we had dedicated people to understand politics and devise
theories with respect to the field. Some of the most influential
names have been Machiavelli, Hobbes, Rousseau, and Locke. Social
scientists like Karl Marx and Max Weber shifted the focus of politics
from specific government institutions to broader subjects like the
economy and religion.

Today, political science is more relevant than ever, influencing

modern governance systems and offering valuable insights into
societal dynamics. Aspiring students in this field should possess a
keen interest in politics and a curiosity about how governments
operate. Typically housed within the Liberal Arts departments in
most educational institutions, political science is also available as a
specialized undergraduate program.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

With the diversification of the field, students can now personalize

their academic journey. Contemporary curriculum options often
include sub-disciplines like international relations, political
economy, public policy, and comparative politics, among others. The
inclusion of interdisciplinary studies, integrating subjects like data
analytics, environmental policy, and even neuroscience, reflects the
adaptability and relevance of a Political Science degree in today's
complex, interconnected world.

In undergraduate programs, students often delve into foundational

sub-disciplines such as Comparative Politics, Political Behavior, and
Politics specific to certain regions or countries like India or the
United States. Graduates with a degree in Political Science are well-
equipped for diverse career avenues, including but not limited to
journalism, law, public policy, and of course, politics.

International Relations (IR) is traditionally considered a subfield of

Political Science. However, given its increasing relevance and
applicability, many universities now offer it as an independent
program. The domain of IR is expansive, encompassing studies of
conflict, diplomacy, economic policy, and international law. Topics
like the origins of war, conflict resolution, international economic
interactions, and policy decision-making processes are often
scrutinized. National security strategies, nuclear deterrence, arms
control, and fiscal allocations for defense are just some examples of
the kinds of international policy decisions that are explored.

In today's era of accelerating globalization and interconnected

economies, nations are becoming increasingly interdependent. This
interconnection has amplified the demand for experts proficient in
international relations to navigate complex diplomatic landscapes.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

These professionals manage a spectrum of relations that can be

bilateral or multilateral and often involve varying interests, ranging
from government-to-government interactions to complex
negotiations between governments and corporations seeking to
invest in foreign countries.

Moreover, as the landscape of international interactions continues

to evolve, topics like climate change, cybersecurity, human rights,
and global health have gained prominence in the field of IR.
Challenges and conflicts arising from these areas often necessitate
specialized skills and expertise, making the scope of International
Relations far more multifaceted than ever before.

Because of the development of globalization and the advancement

of economies around the globe, nations have come nearer to one
another than at any time in recent memory in mankind's history.
This has resulted in a rising need for specialists well-versed in
building and maintaining ties. These authorities handle connections
that go from being two-party to multilateral. They may be between
similar parties, say two governments, or sometimes between two
parties with different interests, say governments and organizations
wanting to set up business in those countries. At times, the
interaction may involve conflicts, legal issues, and so on. Each
requires an unmistakable arrangement of abilities and mastery.
Therefore, International Relations is not merely the study of
relationships between states but a comprehensive exploration of the
complex tapestry of interactions that shape our world today.

For those interested in specializing in International Relations in

India, both undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available.
Given the increasing complexity of international affairs, completing a
postgraduate course is highly recommended.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Career options have diversified to include not just government and

international bodies, but also think tanks, media organizations, and
NGOs focused on global issues. Students explore topics like
diplomacy strategies, industrial growth patterns, and trade
dynamics, as well as emerging issues like cyber warfare, climate
change diplomacy, and global health governance.

Subject combinations for eligibility

For a degree course in Political Science and International Relations,

the students can have any combination of subjects in classes 11 and
12. However, it has been seen that students who belong to the
humanities stream and have Political Science as a subject in classes
11 and 12 tend to study the subject at the bachelor level or post
that as well. Many students who aspire to take up postgraduate
courses in Law or plan to write the civil services exams also plan to
study Political Science at the undergrad level.

Bachelor degrees and specializations in Political Sciences and

International Relations:

Many colleges in India offer a B. A. or else a B. A. (Honors) in Political

Science. Similarly, at the master's level, an M. A. Political Science is
the degree that is awarded. The same stands true for courses in
International Relations as well. That is the students have a choice to
take up either a BA or a BA (Hons) course.

Eligibility: For a degree course in Political Science and International

Relations, the students can have any combination of subjects in
classes 11 and 12. However, it has been seen that students who
belong to the humanities stream and have Political Science as a
subject in classes 11 and 12 tend to study the subject at the
bachelor level or post that as well.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Many students who aspire to take up postgraduate courses in Law or

plan to write the civil services exams also plan to study Political
Science at the undergrad level.

Now, both these courses are very popularly available to the students
as a part of a Liberal Arts course as well. Most of the Liberal Arts
universities in the country will have Political Science and International
Relations as one of the choices for a major or a minor in the course.

For country options abroad, many students can also get a

combination course with many other disciplines such as Language,
History, Political Science, etc.

As for higher education, the students will have Masters in Arts (MA)
courses and thereafter the students can opt for research-based and a
Ph.D. course.

Top Colleges for Political Sciences:

• Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi
• St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
• St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata
• Hindu College, New Delhi
• Christ (Deemed to be University), Bengaluru
• Fergusson College, Pune
• Miranda House, Delhi
• Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi
• Presidency College, Chennai
• Madras Christian College, Chennai

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

The top colleges for International Relations at the undergrad and

postgrad level are:
• Jindal School of International Affairs, Sonipat
• FLAME University, Pune
• Krea University, Sricity
• Ashoka University, Sonipat
• Shiv Nadar University, Delhi
• School of Liberal Studies, Pandit Deendayal Petroleum
University, Gandhinagar

Admission process: The landscape of admissions to BA and BA

(Hons) courses in Political Science has evolved, with many
institutions opting for a multi-faceted approach beyond relying
solely on class 12 scores. Generally, colleges begin their admission
process between April and May, with cut-offs announced by June.

• Delhi University (CUET-based Admission)

In a significant shift, Delhi University has moved away from a
strictly cut-off-based admission process. Now, admissions for
Political Science and related courses are conducted through the
Common University Entrance Test (CUET). This transition allows
the university to evaluate candidates on various academic and
aptitude parameters rather than merely class 12 marks. However,
achieving high scores remains crucial for admission into top-tier
Delhi University colleges like Hindu and LSR.

• Christ University (Alternative Admission Criteria)

Christ University takes a more holistic approach to admissions,
offering two major course combinations with Political Science:
1. BA EPS - Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Political Science,
Sociology
2. BA HEP - Bachelor of Arts in History, Economics, Political
Science
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

For admissions at Christ, students are evaluated based on an

Entrance Test, Skill Assessment, Personal Interview, and Academic
Records. Application forms typically become available in December,
with deadlines set for February- March.

Liberal Arts Admissions: Political Science and International

Relations are increasingly incorporated into broader Liberal Arts
programs. These often employ a multi-stage admission process,
including aptitude tests, essays, and interviews to assess a
candidate's interdisciplinary skills and interests.

Emerging Trends: In keeping with global education trends, some

colleges and universities are beginning to accept portfolio reviews,
recommendation letters, and MOOC (Massive Open Online Course)
certifications as part of the admission criteria. This trend provides
students with more avenues to demonstrate their abilities beyond
traditional academic achievements.

Application Registration: During the application registration stage,

students must complete an application form that often requires
supplemental materials. In addition to basic information, applicants
should be prepared to submit a Statement of Purpose (SoP) or
Admission Essay and a Letter of Recommendation (LoR).
Furthermore, with the growing importance of soft skills and real-
world experience, a well-curated CV detailing extracurricular
activities and relevant experiences is becoming increasingly
valuable. Some institutions are also encouraging students to
submit digital portfolios or evidence of MOOC (Massive Open
Online Courses) certifications as part of the application.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Interview/ Group Discussion/ Entrance Test: The type of

evaluation—be it an Interview, Group Discussion, or Entrance
Test—varies depending on the institution. Most Entrance Tests are
aptitude-based, assessing Quantitative Aptitude, Verbal Aptitude,
and Logical Reasoning. Emerging trends indicate some universities,
like Ashoka University, also require on-the-spot essay writing on
contemporary issues as part of the evaluation process. This trend
reflects the increasing importance of critical thinking and
adaptability in today's global landscape.

Holistic Admission Process: Considering the competitive landscape,

academic scores alone no longer guarantee admissions. Many
universities employ a holistic admission process that takes multiple
factors into account, from aptitude tests to interviews and
extracurricular involvement. For liberal arts courses, application
windows generally open between October and November and last
until March.

Top Colleges Around the World

UK Universities:
•London School of Economics and Political Science
•University of Cambridge
•King’s College London
•SOAS, University of London
•University of Edinburgh

USA Universities:
•Boston University
•Yale University
•University of Southern California
•Northwestern University
•University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Canadian Universities:
•University of Toronto
•University of British Columbia
•University of Waterloo
•University of Calgary
•McMaster University

Emerging Trends

With increasing globalization, many students are also considering

universities in Asia, Australia, and Canada for Political Science and
International Relations. Courses in these regions often incorporate
subjects like technology in governance, sustainability, and global
health, reflecting current global issues and trends.

Students aspiring to study abroad should ideally initiate the

application process at least 12-18 months ahead of their intended
course start date. For instance, if you are completing your high
school in May 2023 and plan to begin your college education in
September 2023, it's advisable to kick-start your application
process by September 2022 or earlier. This timeline allows for
potential delays or setbacks due to the pandemic, changes in visa
policies, or increased competition.

In preparation for the application process, ensure you've fulfilled

all prerequisites, such as standardized tests like the SAT or ACT,
and language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. It's also a good
idea to keep an eye out for new kinds of assessments that
universities may require due to ongoing educational trends.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Industries and Career Options:

With countries interacting more with each other and the world
becoming one global village career option in Political Science and
International Relations. Many students who take up studies in
Political Science and International Relations will do so because
they are passionate about the subject or else they aspire to have a
career with which they can influence and change the world for the
better.

Students often start their professional journey with a bachelor's

degree, but in today's competitive landscape, a master's degree is
highly recommended for more diverse and higher-paying
opportunities. Current trends indicate an emphasis on
multidisciplinary skills, including digital literacy and data analysis,
even in traditionally "soft science" fields like Political Science.

Here are a few career paths to gain work experience in before

delving deeper into Political Science and International Relations:
• Banking and Accounting services
•Local and national governments as government relations
consultant
•Multilateral and intergovernmental organizations
•Non-government organizations
•Media and publishing companies as marketing and client relations
officer

Emerging Paths:
• Data Analysis in Policy Research: As data becomes increasingly
vital in decision-making processes, a role focused on data
analytics within a policy research organization could provide
you with essential skills.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

•Sustainability and Climate Policy Analyst: Given the growing focus

on sustainable development and climate change, these roles can
offer firsthand experience in one of the most pressing global
challenges today.
•Technology Policy Analyst: With the growing importance of
technology in every sector, understanding the ethical and
governance issues surrounding technology can provide a solid
foundation.
•Digital Diplomacy: As digital platforms become instrumental in
diplomatic efforts, roles related to social media strategy and online
communications are emerging as valuable experiences.

Exploring the Diverse Career Opportunities for Students in Political

Science and International Relations
In today's ever-evolving global landscape, a degree in Political
Science or International Relations isn't just a pathway to academia;
it can lead to a myriad of exciting career prospects. Let's delve into
some job roles that are both traditional and contemporary for
students venturing into this domain:
1. Civil Services: Embracing Digital Governance
After completing a bachelor's course in Political Science or
International Relations, students often set their sights on civil
services examinations. While many are interested in the Indian
Foreign Service (IFS) cadre, options like the Indian Administrative
Service (IAS) remain equally prestigious. The emphasis, however,
has been shifting towards expertise in digital governance and
sustainable development, aligning with global trends.
2. Politics and Government: More Than Just Diplomacy
While a career in politics and government might sound traditional,
the landscape has evolved to include roles that resonate with the
needs of the 21st century:

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

•Diplomat: In today's interconnected world, the role of a diplomat

extends beyond liaising with foreign government officials. They are
now the flagbearers of their nations in areas like climate
negotiations, cybersecurity, and even cultural exchange.
• Intelligence Specialist: No longer confined to defense scenarios,
intelligence specialists now leverage big data analytics and AI to
collect information for national security. The multidisciplinary
nature of Political Science and International Relations makes these
graduates well-suited for this evolving role.
• Policy Analyst: With the advent of data-driven decision-making,
policy analysts don't just rely on public opinion surveys anymore.
They are increasingly using machine learning algorithms and data
analytics to measure the impact of policies, catering to various
stakeholders like NGOs, think tanks, and government agencies.
• Political Advisor: While it's still true that a master's degree or
Ph.D. is generally required, the field has expanded to include
specializations in areas like environmental policy, human rights law,
and digital governance.

Future-Ready Skills for Tomorrow's Leaders

As the lines between disciplines blur, skills like coding, data
analytics, and public communication are increasingly valuable for
political science professionals. So, whether you aspire to be a part
of the legislative framework, work in international organizations, or
contribute to policy-making, staying ahead of the curve and
embracing these multi-disciplinary skills can set you up for a
rewarding career in today's complex political landscape.

By equipping yourself with a modern understanding of Political

Science and International Relations, you'll be ready to navigate the
challenges and opportunities in a career path that's as dynamic as
the world around you.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

3.Business and Law

• Lobbyist – A lobbyist is a person who generally represents his/her
organization or institution in front of government officials. His main
role is to persuade them to make a decision or an amendment that
would benefit the organization on the whole.
• Law – when we combine relevant law courses with the study of
political science and IR then we get attorneys and lawyers who work
in the field of Human Rights Law, Intellectual Property, etc. These
lawyers deal with international trade law, finance, and banking, and
also mediate disputes between countries.

4. International Organizations: Students have a wide area of

employment in the various agencies that work for the world or a
group of countries as a whole, for example, UN agencies, EU
departments, the World Health Organization, and the World
Economic Forum.

5. Non-Profit Organizations and NGOs: Students can make the most

out of their studies in Political Science and IR by working at not-for-
profit organizations or NGOs in the areas of Gender Justice, Child
Welfare, Immigrant upliftment, and many more.

6. Education and Research: Students can take the master's degree

and post that sit for a NET exam and get to research in the area of
political science and international science. The aspirants to take to
teaching at the degree level courses once they have submitted their
research and are qualified.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

7. Psephology: Psephology is a branch of political science that deals

with the scientific analysis of elections or polls. A psephologist,
vaguely called a pollster, estimates and announces political race
results - normally in vote-based systems - utilizing numerical
devices. As a psephologist, you will utilize your abilities to ascertain
the consequences of "leave surveys" in any justly held political race
and accept a last approach in which gathering wins.
In this job, the students will be asked to gather and analyze the
electoral data of general elections from polling booths across the
country. To do so, they will use tools such as historical voting data,
campaign finance information, public opinion, etc.

People who take it up need to understand the demographics,

politics, and dynamics of the population. Psephologists will conduct
an extensive survey to find out the beliefs and aspirations of the
majority, what wins them over, and what doesn’t. Coupling this
understanding with statistics, they predict if the methods applied
by a certain party to win over the population of that region would
work or not. Hence even political parties employ them.

In this job, it is important to leave your political inclinations behind

while on duty. This is perhaps the most important responsibility of
psephologists. To be good at this kind of job one needs technical
skills, statistical skills, attention to detail, etc.

People who take it up need to understand the demographics,

politics, and dynamics of the population. Psephologists will conduct
an extensive survey to find out the beliefs and aspirations of the
majority, what wins them over, and what doesn’t. Coupling this
understanding with statistics, they predict if the methods applied
by a certain party to win over the population of that region would
work or not. Hence even political parties employ them.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

In this job, it is important to leave your political inclinations behind

while on duty. This is perhaps the most important responsibility of
psephologists. To be good at this kind of job one needs technical
skills, statistical skills, attention to detail, etc.

Skills required: To have a stellar career in Political Science and

International Relations apart from being a responsible citizen one
needs to have the skills set:
• Problem-solving and Decision-Making Skills
• Communication and Negotiation Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Team Work
• Research and Presentation Skills

Pros and Cons: The Realities of a Career in Political Science and

International Relations

Before diving headfirst into the dynamic world of Political Science

and International Relations, it's important to weigh the pros and
cons. A career in this field is rewarding but comes with its own set of
challenges. Here's a nuanced look:

Pros:
•Global Exposure: This career path offers unparalleled exposure to
different cultures, governance systems, and international policies.
You'll have a front-row seat to historical events as they unfold.
• Networking with the Influential: Engaging with global leaders,
policymakers, and intellectuals is part of the job. The networking
opportunities are immense, and you may even rise to become a
significant decision-maker yourself.
• High Prestige: Occupations in this domain are often high in social
esteem and respect, especially when your work can have a direct
impact on global or national policies.
International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety
DEEP DIVE INTO POLITICAL SCIENCE & INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Cons:
•Less Hands-On: If you're someone who enjoys practical, hands-on
work, this career may not be for you. Much of your time will be
spent in analysis, research, and diplomatic discussions.
•Challenging Start: Entry-level roles often require a diverse skill set,
from analytical abilities to exceptional interpersonal skills. The
learning curve can be steep, making the initial phase of your career
challenging.
•Demanding Schedule: Long working hours and high-stress
situations come with the territory, especially if you're involved in
crisis management or diplomatic negotiations.

Key Takeaways:
•Political Science: This subject delves deep into the mechanisms of
governance and politics, covering local, state, national, and
international spectrums.
•International Relations: This field explores political activities and
multifaceted interactions among states, offering a broad
understanding of global affairs.
•Recommended Courses: Major courses in this field include BA, BA
(Hons), and increasingly, liberal arts courses that offer an
interdisciplinary approach.
•Top Colleges: Some of the leading institutions for these courses
include Ashoka University, University of Delhi, Christ University, and
the University of Mumbai.
•Whether you're excited by the prospect of shaping global policies
or intrigued by the study of power dynamics, a career in Political
Science and International Relations promises both challenges and
rewards. Be prepared for a complex but fulfilling journey that could
make you a future leader in your own right.

International Educational Gateway Pvt. Ltd. © 2023. All Rights Reserved. Univariety