Planning to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Science from IGNOU? Understanding the latest syllabus is the first and most crucial step in your academic journey. The IGNOU BAPSH Syllabus 2025 has been designed to offer a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge, elective flexibility, and practical skill-building. Whether you’re a fresher looking to enroll or a continuing student planning for re-registration, having a complete grasp of the syllabus structure will help you make informed decisions about course selection, exam preparation, and future career paths.
IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University) uses a credit-based system, meaning every course or subject carries a certain number of credits. To qualify for the BAPSH degree, students must accumulate a total of 148 credits. These credits are spread across six semesters, and they cover core subjects, electives, skill-based courses, and general education modules. Let’s dive into the semester-wise structure, understand the subject options, and explore what makes this program flexible and rewarding for students across India.
IGNOU BAPSH Course Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Political Science (BAPSH) |
| University | Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) |
| Total Credits Required | 148 Credits |
| Course Duration | Minimum: 3 years, Maximum: 6 years |
| Mode of Learning | Distance / Open Learning |
| System | Semester-wise (6 semesters) |
| Eligibility | 10+2 or equivalent qualification |
Semester-Wise BAPSH Syllabus Structure (2025)
The BAPSH program is a blend of Core Courses (CC), Discipline-Specific Electives (DSE), Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses (AECC), Generic Electives (GE), and Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC). Here is a detailed breakdown for each semester:
Semester 1
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Core Courses (CC) | BPSC-101, BPSC-102 | 12 |
| AECC | BEVAE-181 | 4 |
| Generic Elective (GE) – Choose One | BSKG-171, BPYG-171, BSOG-171, BPCS-171, BPAG-171, BEGG-171, BABG-171, ONR-003 | 6 |
| Total Credits | 22 |
Semester 2
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Core Courses (CC) | BPSC-103, BPSC-104 | 12 |
| AECC | BEGAE-182 or BHDAE-182 | 4 |
| Generic Elective (GE) – Choose One | BSKG-172, BPAG-172, BEGC-172, BPCS-172, BDSG-172, BPYG-172 | 6 |
| Total Credits | 22 |
Semester 3
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Core Courses (CC) | BPSC-105, BPSC-106, BPSC-107 | 18 |
| Skill Enhancement (SEC) – Choose One | BANS-183, BPCS-183, BPAG-173, BEGC-183, BCHS-183, BPCS-187, BCOG-183, BSSS-183 | 4 |
| Generic Elective (GE) – Choose One | BSKG-173 | 6 |
| Total Credits | 28 |
Semester 4
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Core Courses (CC) | BPSC-109, BPAC-108, BPSC-110 | 18 |
| Skill Enhancement (SEC) – Choose One | BPAS-184, BANS-184, BECS-184, BPCS-184, BHDS-184 | 4 |
| Generic Elective (GE) – Choose One | BPAG-174, BPCG-174, BPAG-176, BEGG-174 | 6 |
| Total Credits | 28 |
Semester 5
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Discipline Specific Electives (Choose Any Two) | BPSE-141, BPSE-143, BPSE-145 | 24 |
| Total Credits | 24 |
Semester 6
| Course Type | Course Code(s) | Credits |
| Discipline Specific Electives (Choose Any Two) | BPSE-142, BPSE-144, BPSE-146 | 24 |
| Total Credits | 24 |
Understanding the IGNOU BAPSH Credit System
IGNOU uses a unique credit-based evaluation system. Here’s how it works:
- Core Courses (CC): These are mandatory subjects that provide deep insights into the field of Political Science. You must complete all CCs to qualify for your degree.
- Discipline-Specific Electives (DSE): These offer subject-specific specialization. Students choose their preferred topics in the final year.
- Generic Electives (GE): Open to students from other disciplines. Offers interdisciplinary exposure.
- Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC): Practical or skill-oriented papers such as communication skills, research methodology, etc.
- Ability Enhancement Compulsory Courses (AECC): Focus on environmental studies, English communication, or regional languages.
Each course ranges from 4 to 6 credits. You earn credits only after successfully passing a course, and you need to accumulate 148 credits to graduate.
Why Choose BAPSH at IGNOU?
- Flexible Learning: You can study from anywhere in India at your own pace.
- Career-Focused Curriculum: Updated regularly with relevant political and social topics.
- Affordability: One of the most cost-effective undergraduate programs.
- Civil Services Preparation: Political Science is a core subject for UPSC and other state-level exams.
- Study Support: Access to IGNOU study centers, printed material, and online resources.
This program is particularly suited for students aspiring to enter public administration, journalism, law, and academia. It also serves as a stepping stone to postgraduate degrees and professional courses.
Important Tips for BAPSH Students
- Choose Electives Wisely: Pick electives aligned with your interests or future plans.
- Track Your Credits: Use a credit tracking sheet to monitor progress every semester.
- Stay Updated: Regularly check IGNOU’s official website for updates and exam schedules.
- Utilize Resources: Make use of IGNOU’s online library, YouTube lectures, and printed study materials.
- Plan Ahead: Finish assignments and practicals on time to avoid unnecessary delays.
FAQs on IGNOU BAPSH Syllabus 2025
Q1. How many credits are required to complete the BAPSH program at IGNOU?
You need a total of 148 credits to successfully complete the BAPSH degree at IGNOU.
Q2. Are the elective courses mandatory in each semester?
Yes, students must select and complete elective courses as per the semester-wise structure to meet credit requirements.
Q3. Can I complete the BAPSH program in less than 3 years?
No, the minimum duration to complete the BAPSH program is 3 years as per IGNOU guidelines.
Q4. Is it possible to change electives once selected?
Electives once registered cannot be changed during the same semester. Choose carefully during registration.
Q5. Is BAPSH a good option for preparing for UPSC or other civil services exams?
Absolutely. Political Science is one of the most opted subjects in the UPSC exam. IGNOU’s BAPSH syllabus provides a strong foundation.
For more information or to download the latest syllabus, visit the official IGNOU website or consult your regional IGNOU study center.
