MA in Political Science and International Relations

Master of Arts (MA)

Political Science and International Relations


Eligibility

The qualification required to apply for the program is a minimum of 50% marks in Bachelor’s in political science, allied social sciences any discipline in Bachelor’s can apply. Students who are pursuing final year bachelor’s program are also eligible to apply

Overview

The MA in Political Science and International Relations is designed to provide students of humanities and social sciences with a wider and deeper understanding of the field. It is a 2-year (four-semester) programme at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) that aims to comprehend national and global politics. The course will provide rigorous academic content, train students to develop political analysis, problem-solving, and research writing skills. The course equips them to gain skills to appear for professional competitive civil service examinations, and give them exposure to the real world of politics, political organisations, structures and processes, international political organisations think tanks, enabling interactions with policymakers, bureaucrats, legislators and other allied experts in the field. The need and scope of this programme are significant as it caters to the increasing demand for domestic and international politics experts, civil servants, researchers, consultants and strategists who are well-trained to understand the politics that shape the world. 

Program code: 041
Course code : 4117
Course Commencement : Sep 2026

Study Campus

JAIN Knowledge Campus
#44/4, District Fund Road
Jayanagar 9th Block Campus
Bengaluru - 5600 69
P : +91 80 46501738


Admissions Office

JAIN Knowledge Campus
#44/4, District Fund Road
Jayanagar 9th Block Campus
Bengaluru - 5600 69
P : +91 73376 13222 
P : +91 80503 75445

Curriculum Structure

  • Theories of International Relations
  • Indian Foreign policy: Major Powers and Her Neighbours
  • Political Theory: Concepts and Debates
  • Western Political Thought
  • Seminar Course: International Relations and World History
  • Project- Indian Constitution: Case Studies and Debates

  • Political Theory: Ideologies
  • Advanced Theories of International Relations
  • Research Methodology
  • PCL: Dissertation Synopsis
  • Open Electives
  • Summer Internship

  • Public Administration
  • International Law
  • International Organisation
  • Indian Political Thought
  • Seminar Course Option 1: Globalisation and the Non-traditional Security Issues
  • Seminar Course Option 2: State, Violence, and Human Rights
  • Open Elective
  • Project: Forced Migration: Case Studies from across the World

  • Development Administration
  • Indian Politics
  • Political Economy: Theory and Practices
  • Option 1-Contemporary Geopolitical Concerns
  • Option 2- major and Emerging Powers in World politics
  • Open Elective
  • PCL – Dissertation and Viva

  • Smartphone Photography
  • Lights, Camera, Cinema: Beginner Course on Cinematography
  • Indian Knowledge System
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Indian Music Appreciation
  • Nutrition and Wellness
  • Data Analytics Using Excel
  • Human Resource management
  • Organisational Behaviour
  • Happiness and Wellbeing
  • Marketing, Finance and Business Models for New Ventures
  • Entrepreneurship Growth Strategies

Course Highlights

  • Well-grounded in the dynamic of national and international politics.
  • Ability to present and communicate research findings to map national and international policy trends.
  • Ability to write and publish academically rigorous research papers
  • Opportunity to create an interface with industry and experts in the field with greater exposure with field experiences
  • National and International Collaborations with for Research, Workshops, Conferences, and Public Lectures

Career Enhancement Programs

The course provides a conducive environment where the students are trained to become policy makers by holding key positions in the governments. The course nurtures the students and develop them into Socio-Political Innovators and make them better humans for tomorrow.

Career Outcomes

The postgraduates from this discipline will be equipped to apply for all competitive civil service exams and also work in policy research organisations, and think tanks. They will be trained to be teachers, researchers, consultants and analysts. The students can find ample job opportunities across different sectors, some of the job roles are:

  • Political Scientists and International Relations Experts
  • Policy Makers and Law Makers
  • Socio-Political Entrepreneurs
  • Civil Service Aspirants
  • Communicators and Organisational Strategists
  • Public Service Providers
  • Academicians
  • Journalists

FAQ's

Who is the father of International Relations?


Hans Morgenthau, a German-American political scientist and jurist, is the father of international relations.

How to study International Relations?


To study International Relations (IR), students can take courses at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, such as the Master of Arts in Political Science and International Relations. They can also read about current affairs and world history to learn more about international relations.

What is the difference between Political Science and International Relations?


Political science studies the relationship between power and government, while international relations focuses on global politics.

Is International Relations hard?


International Relations requires a deep understanding of various cultures' political, economic, and social systems. Moreover, students must stay updated on constantly evolving global events and intricate theories. Therefore, it can be rigorous at times.

What is the scope of International Relations?


The scope of International Relations is broad, encompassing the study of political, economic, social, and legal interactions between countries, including diplomacy, foreign policy, international organisations, global issues like climate change, trade agreements, conflict resolution, and human rights.

What is the highest-paying job in International Relations?


International lawyers and diplomats are among the highest-paying jobs in international relations.

Is MA Political Science worth it?


Yes. An MA in Political Science can be worth it because it can lead to various career paths in government, journalism, and academia. It also helps develop critical analysis, research, and communication skills.

Which course is best after an MA in Political Science?


After an MA in Political Science, students can consider pursuing a law degree (LLB), an MBA focusing on public policy or HR, or a PhD in Political Science for research-oriented careers.

What is the job of a Political Scientist?


Political scientists study how political systems work and how politics impact society. They research political trends, analyse data, and develop theories to understand political processes.

Can I do a PhD after my MA in Political Science?


Yes. Students can pursue PhD in Political Science or related fields after completing a Master of Arts in Political Science.

How to do an MA in Political Science?


To be eligible for an MA in Political Science, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks.

Which job is best after an MA in Political Science?


After an MA in Political Science, some of the best job options include:

  • Political Analyst
  • Public Policy Analyst
  • Researcher at a Think Tank
  • Campaign Manager
  • Government Affairs Specialist
  • Lobbyist
  • Journalist Specialising in Politics
  • Civil Servant (through competitive exams)
  • Public Relations Manager
  • University-Level Teaching Position