Careers after BA Political Science

March 17, 2025
ba political science

Got a question on this topic?

Related Articles

ba political science

Careers after BA Political Science

Published on March 17, 2025
|
10 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • BA Political Science is a 3-year undergraduate course divided into six semesters and is among the most popular UG programs.  
  • Admission may require entrance exams like CUET, JMI Entrance Exam, and PUBDET, depending on the university. The course covers topics like political theories, government policies, international relations, and public administration.  
  • Graduates can pursue careers in civil services, law, journalism, and public policy. 

 

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

Understanding BA Political Science

BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science) is a three-year undergraduate program. The three-year course is divided into 6 semesters. It involves the study of political philosophy and an understanding of the various political systems.

The bachelor’s course includes the study of domestic and foreign political systems and historical and modern political systems. BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science), A part from that it also includes public authority and governmental policies, and international relations and public affairs.

BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science), Political science is a sought-after degree that can help students to gain an in-depth knowledge of types of governance systems. Also, it can increase research and critical thinking skills. A political science degree will provide various career opportunities to students in government portfolios, politics, legislation, journalism, diplomacy, and many more.

BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science), If you want to pursue a career in political science, this article will help you learn about the undergrad degree in political science. It will also provide insights into various career options.

ba political science

BA in Political Science Highlights

Course LevelUndergraduate Degree
Duration of the course.3 years.
Number of Universities.300+
Admission Process.Merit-Based.
Course Type.Semester Based.
The average Fees per Semester.Rs 2,000 to Rs 80,000.
Average Starting Salary.0.80Lakh to 25Lakh per annum.

Skills Needed for BA Political Science

1. Analytical skills

Analytical skills contribute to the analysis of information, problem-solving, and implementation of solutions at work. They are one of the top skills that can help political science students thrive in their field. These skills can also help a learner become a more analytical thinker.

2. Communication Skills

Individuals with good communication skills can understand others and be understood. Listening, speaking, watching, and empathy are all key factors in the context of these talents. BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science), A positive contact atmosphere boosts morale and efficiency in general. It will assist a political science student in efficiently laying out the global viewpoint. Not only that it provides the appropriate awareness of any issue.

3. Critical-thinking skills

Students with critical thinking skills can assess information deliberately to provide a sound solution. It entails assessing sources such as data, facts, observable occurrences, and study findings. Political science students with strong critical thinking skills may infer acceptable conclusions. They derive good decisions from a body of data and distinguish between relevant and irrelevant aspects.

4. Diplomacy Skills

Diplomacy skills facilitate successful communication during negotiations. It is also helpful when someone tries to be aggressive or persuasive. Diplomacy necessitates several soft skills, such as social intelligence and active listening. It is a set of abilities centered on understanding others. With diplomacy, people become sensitive to others’ perspectives, beliefs, ideas, and feelings.

5. Problem-Solving Skills

BA political science, Problem-solving skills aid in the speedy and effective resolution of challenges. It all starts with recognizing the problem. Problem-solving abilities necessitate promptly identifying the root cause and executing a solution. This is seen as a soft skill as opposed to a hard skill obtained through education or study.

Admission Process for BA Political Science in India

admission process for ba political science

In order to be accepted to the BA in Political Science program in India. The applicants must have completed their 10+2 from a recognized university. There is no set age limit or criterion for admission to the BA in Political Science program. This means students of any age can apply and enroll. The candidate should obtain at least 50% in their class XII board examinations or equivalent.

The admission process for BA Political Science in India typically involves meeting eligibility criteria, which generally requires students to have completed their 10+2 education with a minimum of 50% marks. Admissions may be based on merit from previous qualifying exams or through entrance exams like CUET, depending on the college.

 Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must have completed Class 12 from a recognized board.
  • A minimum of 50% aggregate marks is usually required (45% for SC/ST/OBC candidates).
  • Students from any stream (Arts, Science, or Commerce) can apply.

Application Process

  • Online Registration: Most universities conduct the application process online. Students need to fill out the application form and submit it before the deadline.
  • Document Submission: Required documents typically include Class 10th and 12th marksheets, identity proof, photographs, and category certificates if applicable.
  • Application Fee: A non-refundable fee is usually required for processing the application.

Admission Based on Merit or Entrance Exam

  • Some universities admit students based on merit, which is determined by the cut-off list published after the Class 12 results.
  • Others may require students to take entrance exams like CUET, which assess general knowledge, logical reasoning, and subject-specific knowledge.

Counseling and Final Admission

  • After qualifying for the entrance exam or meeting the merit criteria, students participate in a counseling process to select their preferred colleges.
  • Final admission is confirmed after document verification and payment of the course fee.

Key Universities Offering BA Political Science

  • Delhi University: Requires CUET score for admission.
  • Jawaharlal Nehru University: Admission through CUET.
  • Banaras Hindu University: Merit-based admission process.

Career Opportunities

  • Graduates can pursue careers in civil services, political research, journalism, NGOs, and international organizations.
  • The program also prepares students for further studies in related fields or civil services examinations.

Note: Admission to BA political science programs is often based on merit. However, some colleges do have entrance tests as part of the selection process.

Exams for entrance to BA political science include:

Exam NameApplication Form OutExam Date
BHU UETFebruary – MarchEnd of May
CUETApril – MayJuly
JNUEEMay – JuneEnd of June

Note: that these are only some broad qualifying standards. Any particular qualifications may be verified on the website of the relevant institution or college.

On the other hand, if you want to study abroad, the eligibility requirements vary across universities.

  1. Complete a 10+2 from a recognised university board with a minimum needed percentage or grade.
  2. English Language Proficiency Test requirement — IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. (This can be waived in rare situations. In cases when the candidate can demonstrate that English was an MOI at their former institution.)
  3. Some overseas colleges may need certification of certain language skills.
  4. Letter of recommendation

 BA Political Science Colleges Abroad for Indian Students

Course NameUniversityDurationAverage Fee (INR)
BA in Political ScienceUniversity of Florida, Gainesville4 years23.97 Lakh
BA in Political ScienceAmerican University, Washington D.C.4 years47.29 Lakh
BA in Political ScienceUniversity of Kansas, Lawrence4 years24.60 Lakh
BA in Political Science EducationUniversity of Delaware, Newark4 years33.22 Lakh
Bachelor of Science in Political ScienceCaltech, Pasadena4 years52.90 Lakh

Note: Fees may vary based on the university, location, and additional costs.

Types of BA in Political Science

1. Full-Time Course

A full-time three-year BA course in Political Science is available. In this field, practical knowledge is more crucial than academic understanding. A full-time course enables students to interact directly with professors and other students. It also helps them in broadening their knowledge, perspective, and understanding.

2. Part-Time Course

A part-time BA in Political Science is available. In this field of work, practical knowledge trumps academic understanding. The benefit of a part-time BA in Political Science is that it helps students to work while studying.

3. Distance Learning Course

Distance learning is the right option for students who want to pursue a BA in Political Science. This is for students who don’t have sufficient time to attend classes. It is again a three-year program. However, some universities like IGNOU make an exception. They may offer three to six years to complete the entire course.

BA Political Science Subjects and Syllabus

The course is divided into six semesters. The coursework and syllabus for a BA in Political Science are nearly the same across all leading institutions and universities in India. A basic course structure of BA Political Science is provided below for students’ convenience.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Political Science is a popular undergraduate program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and practices. The syllabus may vary slightly between universities, but it generally covers a range of core and elective subjects. Below is an overview of common subjects and topics typically included in the BA Political Science curriculum:

Core Subjects

  1. Introduction to Political Science
    • Definition and scope of Political Science
    • Key concepts: power, authority, legitimacy, sovereignty
    • Political theories and ideologies
  2. Political Theory
    • Classical political thought (Plato, Aristotle)
    • Modern political thought (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Marx)
    • Contemporary political theories (liberalism, socialism, feminism)
  3. Comparative Politics
    • Comparative methods and approaches
    • Political systems and institutions
    • Case studies of different countries
  4. Indian Government and Politics
    • Constitution of India: features and significance
    • Structure and functioning of the Indian political system
    • Political parties and electoral systems in India
  5. International Relations
    • Theories of international relations (realism, liberalism, constructivism)
    • Global issues: security, development, environment
    • Role of international organizations (UN, NATO, WTO)
  6. Public Administration
    • Principles of public administration
    • Bureaucracy and its role in governance
    • Public policy formulation and implementation
  7. Research Methodology in Political Science
    • Research design and methods
    • Qualitative and quantitative research techniques
    • Data collection and analysis

Elective Subjects (may vary by university)

  1. Political Economy
    • Relationship between politics and economics
    • Globalization and its impact on politics
    • Economic policies and their political implications
  2. Human Rights and Social Justice
    • Concepts of human rights
    • International human rights instruments
    • Issues of social justice in contemporary society
  3. Political Sociology
    • Relationship between society and politics
    • Role of social movements and public opinion
    • Identity politics and its implications
  4. Environmental Politics
    • Political dimensions of environmental issues
    • Global environmental governance
    • Sustainable development and policy responses
  5. Gender and Politics
    • Feminist theories and political thought
    • Gender representation in politics
    • Impact of gender on policy-making

Sample Syllabus Structure

Year 1

  • Semester 1: Introduction to Political Science, Political Theory, Indian Government and Politics
  • Semester 2: Comparative Politics, International Relations, Research Methodology

Year 2

  • Semester 3: Public Administration, Political Economy, Elective 1
  • Semester 4: Human Rights and Social Justice, Political Sociology, Elective 2

Year 3

  • Semester 5: Environmental Politics, Gender and Politics, Elective 3
  • Semester 6: Dissertation/Project Work, Contemporary Issues in Political Science

Top Colleges for Admission in BA in Political Science

Several institutions in India provide BA Political Science degree programs. This program is for students who want to study sociological, economic, and political life on a national and global scale. The table below lists some of the top BA Political Science colleges in India:

College NameFees Structure
Lady Shri Ram College For Women, New Delhi.₹ 15,870
Presidency University, Kolkata.₹1,100
Jai Hind College, Mumbai.₹ 5,730
Banasthali Vidyapith, Jaipur.₹ 48,000
Panjab University, Chandigarh.₹ 7,8900

Jobs after BA Political Science

1. Civil Services

Several civil servants, including the IAS (Indian Administrative Service), IPS (Indian Police Service), and IFS (Indian Foreign Service) officers have been political science students. People graduating with bachelor’s in political science can become civil servants after giving UPSC exams.

Civil officials are the ones who develop Indian laws and policies. They work for the elected government and help them in drafting new laws and policies. They must develop specific rules and policies based on the opinions and interests of the government.

Salary – 6.2lakh to 22lakh per annum.

2. Law

Students with an undergraduate degree in political science have several options. A student of political science can pursue a master’s degree in law after completing an LLB graduate course.

After that, the student needs to pass the All India Bar Examination held by the Bar Council of India to practice law.

Salary – from 1lakh to 8.3lakh.

3. Social Work

After receiving a B.A. in political science, students can pursue a Master’s degree in social work. There they can pursue a career as a social worker or in social services. This is another way to help society and those in need without getting involved in actual politics and administration.

With the advent of NGOs, government outreach programs, and MNCs creating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) divisions, job opportunities have expanded.

Salary -1lakh to 6lakh.

4. Education

Teaching is an interesting career opportunity for a political science graduate. Political science is becoming more popular as a field. Students can now teach it at the high school level as a teacher or the college level as a professor. To teach at the secondary level, one must have a master’s degree in Political Science as well as a B.Ed.

As a college professor, one needs to have passed the UGC NET. M.Phil and PhD can also help you to grow in this profession.

Salary – 0.2lakh to 4.9lakh.

5. Journalism

Politics dominates news coverage in the media. As public awareness of politics grows, more people are drawn to reading the news. BA Political science graduates have a complete understanding of politics and the landscape.

They are the ideal candidates for careers in the media. They can work as political journalists, writers, editors, and reporters. To enter the media profession, one can pursue a post-graduate degree in journalism.

Average Salary – 4.6 Lakh.

6. Political Scientist

A political scientist’s role entails the study of many aspects of public bodies and government systems. They also study how cities/countries run and interact and the influence of governmental actions.

Political scientists also advise on the actions that can be taken by the government for the improvement of the nation. A MA in Political Science degree or a PhD is required to become a political scientist.

Salary – 8lakh to 15lakh.

7. Marketing Analyst

Marketing entails carefully planning a strategy and launching a service or product. A Political Science graduate may make calculated decisions about product marketing and positioning. This is because they have an understanding of society.

Average Salary 8.2lakh.

8. United Nations Organization

International organizations like the UN frequently employ political science graduates from all around the world. Holders with a BA in Political Science may apply for internships and other opportunities in several UN agencies.

For the top positions in the UN Organization, a higher degree in political science is necessary.

The average annual salary is 6.3 lakhs.

Conclusion

Along with educating you, the BA in Political Science degree will help you develop your analytical and critical thinking skills. BA Political Science (Bachelor of Arts in Political Science), Many possibilities for employment are financially reasonable for BA in Political Science students and may suit their preferences and interests.

Best Careers After Computer Science Engineering- A Complete Guide
by Aniket Saini
Best Careers After Computer Science E…
by Aniket Saini
Top 10 Career Paths and Scope After B.Sc. Physics
by Kundanika
Top 10 Career Paths and Scope After B…
by Kundanika

If you are fascinated by the operation of political systems, the political science bachelor’s is the perfect program for you. To learn more about the BA in the political science program, reach out to Cheggs Expert.

Get Paid for Your Knowledge

Do you think you have enough knowledge of political science? You can become a QA expert at Chegg and help other students out by sharing your knowledge and wisdom. Chegg gives you a great chance to share your knowledge. You can also earn a handsome amount by simply addressing students’ queries. Sign up today at Chegg and start earning!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What does BA political science do?

The numerous political ideas are the focus of BA political science. The entire course covers a variety of political, economic, and international forms of government. The BA Political Science course teaches students how to learn and understand political systems. It also offers them an insight into how governments operate.

Q2. What job can I get after my BA in Political Science?

After earning a political science BA, you have a wide range of excellent career options. It includes Foreign Service Officer, Corporate Manager, Marketing Research Analyst, Politics, and Corporate Manager.

Q3. Is BA political science a good course?

With a wide range of intriguing prospects, political science aids students in advancing their careers. The government and society operate, and studying political science is the best option for people interested in understanding and analysing.

Q4. Is BA in Political Science hard?

Political science will be a very intriguing subject to study if you have a sincere desire to understand politics and its operations. Since the basics are covered in school, studying political science is not all that difficult.

Q5. How much does the BA Political Science program cost?

The typical annual fee for the degree ranges from INR 5,000 to INR 80,000. This cost is applicable across various institutions and universities in India.

Q6. Can I complete a BA Political Science degree program via distance learning?

Yes, you can achieve your BA in Political Science through distance education. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Annamalai University, Sikkim Manipal University, and others are among the institutions.

Q7. Which is better, BA or BA Hons?

BA (Hons) is more specialized and in-depth, focusing on a particular subject, making it ideal for higher studies or research. A regular BA covers a broader range of subjects and is suitable for students looking for a general arts education. The choice depends on career goals and academic interests.

Editor's Recommendations