MA in Political Science and International Relations

Master of Arts (MA)

Political Science and International Relations

Overview

The Master of Arts in Political Science and International Relations is a two-year postgraduate programme offered by JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) under the Centre for Research in Social Sciences and Education (CeRSSE). The programme is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of national and global political systems, international relations, governance structures, and public policy processes.

The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with empirical research, policy analysis, and real-world exposure. Students are trained to develop analytical reasoning, research writing, and problem-solving capabilities while being prepared for competitive civil service examinations and professional roles in governance, policy research, academia, international organisations, and consultancy. Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, the programme adopts outcome-based, learner-centric, and transdisciplinary pedagogies through Project Centric Learning.

Duration: 2 Years (4 Semesters)

No. of Credits: 80 credits

Eligibility

A student who has passed a 3-year undergraduate degree (level 5.5, a total of 120 credits) shall be eligible for admission to 2-year MA programmes.

Preference will be given to candidates who have secured at least 50% marks (45% marks in case of candidates belonging to the reserved category) in the qualifying examination.

Note: However, students who have not studied the requisite courses from the discipline related to the respective programmes will have to undertake the prescribed bridge course(s).

Apply Now Brochure

Program code: 041

Course code : 4117

Course Commencement : Sep 2026

enquiry.pg@jainuniversity.ac.in

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

Curriculum Structure

Theoretical Foundations and Emerging Frontiers in International Relations
Political Theory: Concepts and Ideologies
Western Political Thought
International Relations and World History
Fundamentals of International Politics
Mind Management
Climate Change and Sustainability: Politics, Technology, and Society
Transdisciplinary Project Centric Learning 1

Indian Political Thought
Indian Foreign Policy: Major Powers and Their Neighbours
Research Methodology
Forced Migration and Human Rights: Case Studies from Around the World
Electives Group
India and the Global South
Global Terrorism and Security Studies
Open Elective
Indian Constitution (Swayam)
Transdisciplinary Project Centric Learning 2

Public Administration
International Law
International Organisation
Dissertation - Synopsis
Electives Group
Summer Internship
Regional Dynamics and Global Politics
Transdisciplinary Project Centric Learning 3

Indian Politics
Political Economy: Theory and Practices
Dissertation
Electives Group
Contemporary Geopolitical Concerns
Great and Emerging Powers in World Politics
Digital Humanities in PSIR
Transdisciplinary Project Centric Learning 4

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
Indian Economics
Gender and Politics

Course Highlights

Strong grounding in national and international political dynamics
Research-oriented curriculum integrating theory and policy analysis
Project-based and experiential learning through Transdisciplinary Project Centric Learning (TPCL)
Exposure to policymakers, bureaucrats, political institutions, and think tanks
Training in academic writing and publication of research papers

Career Enhancement Programs

Industry and Project-Based Learning

- Creating an interface with industry and experts in the field
- Providing greater exposure to field experiences

Collaborative Wings: Regional, National, and International

- Research, Workshops, Conferences, and Public Lectures
- International Collaborations with Forum of Federations (Canada), Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) (Germany), Australian Consulate, and Pathfinder Foundation (Sri Lanka)
- National and Regional Collaborations with Bangalore International Studies Network (India), Public Affairs Committee (PAC), Public Affairs Foundation (PAF), Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA-Karnataka Regional Branch), Ekam Sat Trust and many others

The Social Science Perspective (TSSP)

- A quarterly newsletter to promote students’ writings

CeRSSE Conversation

- A bi-monthly online lecture series enhancing civil society engagements

Summer Internships
Learning from Experts in the Academic & Bureaucracy
Polinexus and Vibrant Student Forum
Youth Engagement

- Environment-centric youth awareness
- Youth engagement with the stakeholders from the field in various policy fields

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Political Science and International Relations are well-prepared for diverse and evolving professional pathways, including:

Governance, Public Service, and Democratic Leadership

Graduates develop the capacity to interpret political systems, analyse governance structures, and contribute to democratic decision-making at local, national, and international levels. They are equipped to engage with public institutions, legislative processes, and administrative frameworks, applying constitutional values, ethical reasoning, and policy literacy to address complex societal challenges. This pathway supports careers that uphold public accountability, institutional integrity, and inclusive governance.

Policy Research, Think Tanks, and Evidence-Based Decision-Making

Drawing on rigorous training in political analysis and research methodology, graduates are prepared to design, evaluate, and translate policy research into actionable insights. They contribute to think tanks, research organisations, international agencies, and civil society institutions by producing data-informed analyses, policy briefs, and strategic recommendations. Emphasis is placed on research ethics, critical inquiry, and the responsible use of digital and analytical tools in policymaking.

International Relations, Diplomacy, and Global Affairs

Graduates are positioned to analyse global power dynamics, international institutions, and geopolitical developments, enabling engagement with foreign policy, diplomacy, and international cooperation. This pathway fosters cross-cultural understanding, strategic communication, and negotiation skills essential for roles connected to international organisations, multilateral forums, development agencies, and global advocacy initiatives, with a strong grounding in international law and norms.

Education, Academia, and Knowledge Creation

For those inclined towards scholarly and educational pathways, the programme enables graduates to advance political knowledge through teaching, research, and academic writing. They are trained to engage critically with political theory and contemporary debates, contribute to curriculum development, and pursue doctoral research. This pathway reinforces the role of higher education in shaping informed citizenship, public discourse, and long-term intellectual leadership.

Applied Political Analysis, Media, and Public Engagement

Graduates develop the ability to interpret political developments for diverse audiences, combining analytical depth with effective communication. They engage in roles that involve political commentary, public affairs, strategic communication, and civic engagement, where ethical reporting, data literacy, and digital fluency are increasingly vital. This pathway supports work at the intersection of politics, media, technology, and society.

Collectively, these pathways reflect a programme designed to cultivate adaptable, ethically grounded, and analytically skilled professionals capable of navigating changing political, technological, and institutional landscapes over the long term.

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