It was in 1958; soon after the establishment of the University itself, the visionary leadership of Late Shri Bhaikaka realized the importance of establishing a full fledged post-graduate department of Political Science in the University.  In the years that followed, late Shri H. M. Patel and all the academic leaders of the University till date have actively supported this department.  Since Shri Bhaikaka and Shri H.M. Patel were themselves active in the politics of the day, this department has had the good fortune of being nurtured by them.

The Department was started under the leadership of Professor Ms. Aloo Dastur, who later joined the Department of Civics and Politics in the University of Bombay and retired in the recent past as its head.  Dr. Kshirsagar who had a Ph.D. from an American University followed her.  Professor B. C. Shah took over from Dr. Kshirsagar in 1978-79.  In 1992-93 Dr. M. J. Baxi succeeded Professor Shah as the Head of the Department.  Professor Baxi retired in October 2002 handing over the charge of the Department to Dr. Harbans B. Patel.