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B-SC-HONS-COMMUNITY-SCIENCE in General at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is General at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This B.Sc (Hons) Community Science program at Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, focuses on empowering individuals with a holistic understanding of home, family, and community development. It integrates scientific knowledge with practical skills across diverse fields such as nutrition, textiles, human development, family resource management, and extension education. The program is uniquely tailored to address the socio-economic needs and challenges prevalent in rural and urban Indian communities, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to societal well-being and sustainable living.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in social work, public health, nutrition, textile design, education, and rural development. It is also suitable for aspiring entrepreneurs who wish to launch ventures in food processing, apparel, or community services. Individuals passionate about fostering community welfare, promoting sustainable living, and working with diverse population groups, particularly in the Indian context, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in government organizations (e.g., ICDS, women and child development departments), NGOs, food and nutrition industries, textile and apparel sectors, educational institutions, and healthcare settings. They can also pursue entrepreneurship in areas like diet counseling, fashion design, food product development, or opening daycare centers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Interdisciplinary Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core concepts in Human Nutrition, Basic Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Math), Rural Sociology, Economics, and Horticulture. These foundational subjects are interconnected and critical for later specialization. Participate actively in practicals for each subject to grasp real-world applications.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, lab manuals, online educational videos (e.g., NPTEL for basic science concepts), peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of diverse fundamentals provides a versatile knowledge base, enabling students to adapt to various community science career paths and interdisciplinary research opportunities.
Develop Practical & Communication Skills Early- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in practical sessions for Apparel Production, Family Resource Management, and Computer Applications. Simultaneously, hone your communication skills through English language modules, group presentations, and report writing. Seek opportunities for basic community interactions or surveys.
Tools & Resources
Language learning apps, local community centers for informal interaction, MS Office tutorials, college communication workshops
Career Connection
Early practical skills are essential for hands-on roles, while strong communication is crucial for effective outreach, counseling, and project coordination in community-focused careers.
Engage in Early Exposure to Social Issues- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, make an effort to understand local community structures and social challenges, especially in rural Assam. Read about current affairs, participate in university-level social awareness programs, and reflect on how your studies connect to real-world problems. This develops empathy and contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
Local newspapers, documentaries on rural India, university seminars, NSS/NCC introductory sessions
Career Connection
Cultivating social awareness and empathy from the start prepares you for impactful roles in community development, social work, and policy implementation in India.
Intermediate Stage
Cultivate an Entrepreneurial & Problem-Solving Mindset- (Semester 3-5)
Utilize subjects like ''''Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship'''', ''''Bakery & Confectionery'''', and ''''Product Development in Textiles & Apparel'''' to identify potential business ideas or innovative solutions for community needs. Participate in college business plan competitions or design challenges, focusing on local resources and market gaps.
Tools & Resources
Business plan templates, local market surveys, faculty mentorship, startup incubation cells (if available)
Career Connection
Developing entrepreneurial skills enables graduates to create self-employment opportunities, launch social enterprises, and contribute to local economic growth, which is highly valued in the Indian job market.
Deepen Field Engagement & Research Aptitude- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out opportunities for field visits related to Early Childhood Care & Education, Social Group Work, and Food Quality & Safety. Actively participate in data collection and analysis for projects in ''''Research Methodology & Statistics''''. This practical exposure solidifies theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
NGO collaborations, local schools/anganwadis, statistical software (Excel, SPSS basics), research journals
Career Connection
Hands-on experience and research skills are crucial for roles in program design, monitoring, evaluation, and evidence-based policy making for government and non-profit organizations.
Build Interpersonal & Counseling Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Pay special attention to subjects like ''''Guidance & Counseling'''' and ''''Development Communication''''. Practice active listening, empathy, and effective communication in group activities. Volunteer for peer support initiatives or awareness campaigns to hone these crucial soft skills for community interaction.
Tools & Resources
Role-playing exercises, communication skill workshops, university counseling center resources, public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Strong interpersonal and counseling skills are indispensable for roles in family counseling, health education, extension work, and community mobilization, directly impacting well-being.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Learning from READ-Y Program- (Semester 6-8)
Treat the Rural Entrepreneurship Awareness Development Yojna (READ-Y) modules (Semesters 7 & 8) as a capstone experience. Choose modules strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Food Processing for food industry, ECCE for childcare). Engage fully in project implementation, market analysis, and report writing.
Tools & Resources
Project proposals, market research tools, mentorship from industry/faculty, final project reports from previous batches
Career Connection
The READ-Y program offers unparalleled hands-on experience, significantly enhancing employability and entrepreneurial readiness across various community science domains relevant to India''''s rural economy.
Network and Seek Relevant Internships/Placements- (Semester 6-8)
Actively network with professionals in your chosen specialization within Community Science. Attend industry seminars, job fairs, and alumni events. Seek internships with NGOs, government bodies, food companies, or textile units in Assam or other parts of India to gain pre-placement experience and build professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university career services, alumni network, professional associations related to community science
Career Connection
Networking and internships are vital for securing placements in competitive fields, gaining industry insights, and exploring potential career paths aligned with your specialization after graduation.
Develop Leadership and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Take on leadership roles in student bodies, community projects, or club activities. Focus on subjects like ''''Women Empowerment'''', ''''Human Rights & Values'''', and ''''Youth Development'''' to understand social advocacy. Develop skills to champion community causes and initiate change, which is highly valued in development sectors.
Tools & Resources
Leadership workshops, debate clubs, volunteering for social causes, case studies on successful advocacy campaigns in India
Career Connection
Leadership and advocacy skills are essential for ascending to senior roles in NGOs, government, and community leadership positions, driving impactful social development initiatives.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination with Science or Arts with Economics/Mathematics/Statistics/Home Science as one of the subjects.
Duration: 8 semesters / 4 years
Credits: 175 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 101 | Human Nutrition | Core | 3 | Food components and functions, Balanced diet and meal planning, Nutritional requirements for different age groups, Malnutrition and deficiency diseases, Food groups and dietary guidelines |
| COM 102 | Basic Physics | Core | 3 | Units and measurements, Mechanics and properties of matter, Heat and thermodynamics, Sound and light, Electricity and magnetism |
| COM 103 | Basic Chemistry | Core | 3 | Atomic structure and chemical bonding, Acids, bases and salts, Organic chemistry fundamentals, Periodic table and properties of elements, States of matter and solutions |
| COM 104 | Rural Sociology | Core | 3 | Concept of rural society and social institutions, Rural social structure and stratification, Social change and rural development, Role of rural leadership, Dynamics of rural family |
| COM 105 | Fundamentals of Horticulture | Core | 3 | Principles of horticulture, Cultivation of fruit crops, Cultivation of vegetable crops, Cultivation of ornamental plants, Plant propagation techniques |
| COM 106 | Principles of Economics | Core | 3 | Basic economic concepts, Demand and supply analysis, Production and cost theory, Market structures, National income and economic indicators |
| ENG 101 | Comprehension & Communication Skills in English | Core | 2 | Grammar and vocabulary building, Reading comprehension strategies, Writing skills (essay, report, letter), Public speaking and presentation skills, Effective communication techniques |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 107 | Apparel Production & Management | Core | 3 | Fabric properties and selection, Garment construction techniques, Pattern making and grading, Quality control in apparel production, Textile and garment industry overview |
| COM 108 | Human Development | Core | 3 | Child development theories, Adolescent development and challenges, Developmental stages in adulthood, Aging and geriatric care, Influence of heredity and environment |
| COM 109 | Family Resource Management | Core | 3 | Concept of family resources, Decision making process in families, Time and energy management, Financial management and budgeting, Housing and space management |
| COM 110 | Extension Education | Core | 3 | Philosophy and principles of extension, Extension teaching methods, Rural communication strategies, Program planning and evaluation, Role of extension in rural development |
| COM 111 | Food Processing & Preservation | Core | 3 | Causes of food spoilage, Principles of food preservation, Thermal and non-thermal processing methods, Packaging of food products, Preservation of fruits, vegetables, and cereals |
| MIP 101 | Basic Mathematics | Core | 3 | Algebra and trigonometry, Calculus fundamentals (differentiation, integration), Matrices and determinants, Basic statistics (mean, median, mode), Probability concepts |
| COM 112 | Introduction to Computer Application | Core | 2 | Computer fundamentals and hardware, Operating systems (Windows, Linux), MS Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and email basics, Data organization and presentation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 201 | Consumer Economics | Core | 3 | Consumer behavior and decision making, Consumer rights and responsibilities, Market dynamics and advertising, Personal finance and investment, Consumer protection laws in India |
| COM 202 | Early Childhood Care & Education | Core | 3 | Principles of ECCE, Growth and development of young children, Curriculum planning for ECCE centers, Teaching methods and play-based learning, Role of ECCE in national development |
| COM 203 | Fundamentals of Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Concept and importance of entrepreneurship, Developing a business plan, Marketing and sales strategies, Sources of finance and legal aspects, Case studies of successful entrepreneurs |
| COM 204 | Textile Science | Core | 3 | Classification and properties of textile fibers, Yarn formation and types, Fabric construction techniques, Dyeing and printing processes, Textile finishing and testing |
| COM 205 | Interior Decoration & Design | Core | 3 | Elements and principles of design, Color theory and application, Space planning and furniture arrangement, Lighting and accessories, Selection of interior materials |
| COM 206 | Food Quality & Safety | Core | 3 | Foodborne illnesses and pathogens, HACCP and GMP in food industry, Food standards and regulations (FSSAI), Food additives and contaminants, Quality control and analytical techniques |
| ENV 101 | Environmental Studies & Disaster Management | Core | 3 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution and its control, Natural resources and conservation, Climate change and global warming, Disaster preparedness and mitigation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 207 | Health & Hygiene | Core | 3 | Personal hygiene practices, Public health and sanitation, Communicable and non-communicable diseases, Reproductive health and family welfare, First aid and emergency care |
| COM 208 | Guidance & Counseling | Core | 3 | Principles and types of guidance, Theories and approaches of counseling, Career guidance and vocational counseling, Personal and social counseling, Counseling skills and techniques |
| COM 209 | Social Group Work & Community Organization | Core | 3 | Concept of social group work, Group dynamics and leadership, Community development principles, Participatory approaches to community organization, Role of NGOs and self-help groups |
| COM 210 | Human Physiology | Core | 3 | Structure and function of human body systems, Digestive and excretory systems, Circulatory and respiratory systems, Nervous and endocrine systems, Reproductive system |
| COM 211 | Home Management & Ergonomics | Core | 3 | Work simplification in household tasks, Energy conservation in homes, Principles of ergonomics, Kitchen planning and design, Safety in the home environment |
| COM 212 | Communication & Journalism | Core | 3 | Theories and models of communication, Mass media and its types, Journalistic writing and reporting, Public relations and advertising, Role of media in social development |
| EAC 201 | NSS/NCC/Physical Education | Elective (Non-Credit Bearing, 1 credit equivalent) | 1 | Community service and social awareness, Physical fitness and sports, Discipline and leadership development, National integration activities, Environmental protection initiatives |
| COM 213 | Educational Psychology | Core | 3 | Learning theories and principles, Child and adolescent psychology in education, Motivation in learning, Intelligence and creativity, Classroom management techniques |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 301 | Bakery & Confectionery | Core | 3 | Ingredients and their functions in baking, Bread making techniques, Preparation of cakes and pastries, Confectionery products (chocolates, candies), Quality control and packaging of baked goods |
| COM 302 | Product Development in Textiles & Apparel | Core | 3 | Textile design and innovation, Fashion trends and forecasting, Product conceptualization and prototyping, Marketing and branding of textile products, Intellectual property rights in textiles |
| COM 303 | Methods of Teaching & Audio Visual Aids | Core | 3 | Teaching methodologies and instructional strategies, Lesson planning and curriculum development, Educational technology and tools, Design and use of audio-visual aids, Presentation skills and public speaking |
| COM 304 | Dietetics & Therapeutic Nutrition | Core | 3 | Dietary assessment methods, Principles of therapeutic diets, Nutrition management for common diseases (diabetes, heart disease), Nutrition counseling techniques, Diet planning for specific conditions |
| COM 305 | Women Empowerment & Gender Studies | Core | 3 | Concept of gender and gender roles, Status of women in India, Women''''s rights and social justice, Empowerment strategies and policies, Gender-based violence and its prevention |
| COM 306 | Development Communication | Core | 3 | Communication for social change, Theories of development communication, Media advocacy and campaigns, Community media and folk forms, Behavior change communication strategies |
| COM 307 | Research Methodology & Statistics | Core | 3 | Types and steps of research, Research design and sampling methods, Data collection tools and techniques, Descriptive and inferential statistics, Hypothesis testing and report writing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COM 308 | Family Counseling | Core | 3 | Family systems and dynamics, Counseling approaches for families, Marital and pre-marital counseling, Counseling children and adolescents, Crisis intervention and stress management |
| COM 309 | Clothing & Textile Marketing | Core | 3 | Fashion marketing principles, Branding and retail management, Supply chain in textile industry, Consumer behavior in fashion, Market research and analysis |
| COM 310 | Food Product Commercialization | Core | 3 | Food entrepreneurship and business models, Market analysis and feasibility study, Product launch and distribution strategies, Regulatory compliance for food businesses, Food branding and intellectual property |
| COM 311 | Human Rights & Values | Core | 3 | Universal declaration of human rights, Constitutional provisions for human rights in India, Social justice and equality, Ethics and moral values, Responsibility towards society and environment |
| COM 312 | Youth Development & Programmes | Core | 3 | Challenges faced by youth in India, Youth policies and programs, Skill development and vocational training, Leadership development for youth, Role of youth in community participation |
| COM 313 | Population Education | Core | 3 | Population dynamics and growth, Demographic trends in India, Family planning methods and policies, Reproductive health and rights, Consequences of population growth |
| COM 314 | Entrepreneurship Development for Community Science | Core | 3 | Entrepreneurial opportunities in Community Science, Innovation and creativity in business, Funding sources for startups, Project management and evaluation, Case studies of women entrepreneurs |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| READY 701 | Module-I: Food Processing | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Fruit and vegetable processing techniques, Cereal and pulse processing, Dairy product manufacturing, Quality assurance in food processing, Packaging and storage of processed foods |
| READY 702 | Module-II: Textile Designing, Apparel Production & Quality Control | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Fashion illustration and design software, Advanced garment construction, Textile dyeing, printing, and embellishment, Quality standards and testing in apparel, Merchandising and marketing of textile products |
| READY 703 | Module-III: Early Childhood Care & Education | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Developing ECCE curriculum and materials, Observation and assessment of young children, Managing an ECCE center, Parent involvement and community linkages, Addressing special needs in early childhood |
| READY 704 | Module-IV: Entrepreneurship Development in Family Resource Management | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Business planning for service enterprises (e.g., catering, interior design), Resource optimization and cost management, Marketing strategies for family-oriented services, Financial planning and management for small businesses, Client relationship management |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| READY 801 | Module-V: Community Development & Extension | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Conducting rural surveys and needs assessment, Planning and implementing community development programs, Organizing awareness campaigns and workshops, Capacity building for self-help groups, Monitoring and evaluation of extension activities |
| READY 802 | Module-VI: Food Service Management & Dietetics | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Menu planning and costing for various institutions, Food production and catering management, Hospital dietetics and clinical nutrition, Food hygiene and sanitation in food service, Nutritional assessment and dietary counseling |
| READY 803 | Module-VII: Human Development & Family Studies | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Counseling for diverse family issues, Geriatric care and support services, Programs for children with special needs, Family welfare schemes and policies, Life skills education for individuals and families |
| READY 804 | Module-VIII: Communication & Journalism | Experiential Learning (READ-Y) | 5 | Media production (audio, video, print), Social media for advocacy and outreach, Content creation for rural development, Rural journalism and citizen reporting, Public speaking and presentation in community settings |
