Ashoka University

What you'll study

The programme offers a structured but flexible curriculum that balances core theory, regional and comparative studies, quantitative methods and applied policy work. Students take core modules in political theory, comparative politics, international relations and Indian politics, alongside methodological training in research design, statistics and qualitative methods.

• Core theory: classical and contemporary political thought, democratic theory, justice and rights.
• Comparative and area studies: comparative political institutions, party systems, federalism, and focused modules on regions such as South Asia, East Asia and the Global South.
• International relations: security studies, diplomacy, international political economy and global governance.
• Public policy and governance: policy analysis, implementation, administration, urban governance and regulatory institutions.
• Research methods: introduction to social science methods, statistics for political analysis, survey methods, fieldwork techniques and advanced empirical projects.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: students choose electives from economics, history, sociology, law and data science to complement political science study.
• Capstone / honours project: a supervised research project or thesis in the final year that emphasises original research and policy-relevant analysis.

Entry requirements

Ashoka seeks applicants with strong academic records and demonstrated interest in the social sciences. Admission typically requires successful completion of secondary school qualifications recognised by the university and participation in Ashoka's selection process.

• Academic preparedness in humanities or social sciences; evidence of analytical reading and writing skills.
• Successful outcome in the university's admission assessments, which can include written work, problem-solving tests, and interviews or essays as part of the holistic review.
• Applicants may strengthen their candidacy with evidence of extracurricular engagement in debate, student government, internships, community work or research projects.
• For quantitative components, comfort with basic mathematics and statistics is beneficial.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Political Science programme pursue a wide range of careers that leverage analytical, research and communication skills. Common pathways include:

• Public policy and government: policy analyst, civil service, legislative support and governance roles.
• Research and academia: research assistant or postgraduate study leading to academic roles in political science and related disciplines.
• Think tanks and NGOs: programme officer, researcher, advocacy and monitoring and evaluation roles.
• International organisations and diplomacy: positions in multilateral agencies, development organisations and diplomatic services.
• Media, communications and law: journalism, commentary, public affairs, legal practice and consultancy.
• Private sector roles: consulting, risk analysis, market intelligence and corporate public policy teams.

Why study at Ashoka University

Ashoka's political science programme is offered within a liberal arts environment that emphasises small-group teaching, interdisciplinary study and close faculty mentorship. Students benefit from research-active faculty, frequent seminars and workshops, and opportunities for independent projects and internships.

• Interdisciplinary approach: easy cross-registration with economics, history, law and data science to build bespoke study plans.
• Research and experiential learning: supervised honours projects, fieldwork opportunities and applied policy labs.
• Residential campus and community: a residential model that supports peer learning, student societies and extracurricular engagement such as debating, model UN and policy clubs.
• Location and networks: proximity to national policy hubs and a strong alumni network that can support internships and career development.