Kerala University MA Political Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. MA Political Science from Kerala University is highly beneficial for UPSC Civil Services preparation. Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) is one of the most popular and scoring optional subjects in the UPSC Mains examination. The MA programme covers Political Theory, Indian Government and Politics, Comparative Politics, and International Relations, which directly overlap with the UPSC PSIR optional syllabus. Students also develop strong analytical and essay-writing skills through seminars and research papers, which are critical for the Mains examination. Many alumni of the department have cleared UPSC and Kerala PSC with Political Science as their optional.

Ans. Kerala University offers two related PG programmes: MA Political Science (30 seats) and MA Politics, International Relations and Diplomacy (18 seats). MA Political Science is a broader programme covering all aspects of political science including Indian politics, political theory, comparative politics, and international relations. MA Politics, International Relations and Diplomacy has a more focused curriculum on international affairs, diplomacy, foreign policy, and global governance. Students interested in a career in the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), international organizations, or diplomatic careers may prefer the latter, while those interested in domestic politics, public administration, or civil services may find MA Political Science more suitable.

Ans. Yes, MA Political Science at Kerala University is open to graduates from any discipline, including science, engineering, commerce, and professional courses. There is no restriction on the undergraduate background of applicants. The entrance examination tests knowledge of political science at the graduation level, so students from non-political science backgrounds will need to prepare more thoroughly. However, many students from diverse backgrounds have successfully completed the programme and gone on to careers in civil services, journalism, and policy research. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme is one of its key strengths.

Ans. Graduates of MA Political Science from Kerala University have a wide range of career options. The most popular path is the civil services (IAS, IPS, IFS, KAS, IRS), where political science graduates have a strong advantage. Other career options include journalism and media, law (after LLB), public policy and think tanks, NGOs and development sector, teaching and research (after qualifying UGC-NET/SET), and international organizations. The university's location in Thiruvananthapuram, the state capital, provides unique networking opportunities with government departments, legislative bodies, and policy institutions.

Ans. With 30 seats available, MA Political Science is one of the larger PG programmes at Kerala University, but it is still competitive given the high demand. The CSS PG Entrance Examination consists of 100 MCQs covering political science at the graduation level, including Political Theory, Indian Government and Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations, and Public Administration. Students with a strong UG background in Political Science will find the exam manageable. The rank list is prepared based on percentile scores, and there is a negative marking of 0.25 marks per wrong answer. Thorough revision of standard UG Political Science textbooks is recommended.

Ans. Generally, all candidates must appear for the CSS PG Entrance Examination for admission to MA Political Science at Kerala University. However, there are specific exemptions: SC/ST candidates can be admitted to vacant seats without the entrance exam if sufficient candidates are not available through the regular process. Foreign candidates and sponsored candidates also have a separate admission process. Defence personnel may also have special provisions. For all other candidates, including those from other states or universities, appearing in the entrance examination is mandatory. There is no provision for lateral entry or direct admission based on UG marks alone.