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BA-HONORS in Sociology at Borholla College
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Borholla College Jorhat?
This BA (Honors) Sociology program at Borholla College, affiliated with Dibrugarh University, systematically explores human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It critically analyzes contemporary social issues and developments within the Indian context, with a particular focus on indigenous structures like caste, class, and religion. The program offers a comprehensive understanding of diverse social phenomena, preparing students for analytical and socially conscious roles in a dynamic India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 eager to delve into social research, policy analysis, or development work. It also suits individuals with a profound interest in understanding societal dynamics, cultural nuances, and contributing to social change in India. Aspiring civil servants, NGO workers, and those aiming for postgraduate studies in social sciences will find this course enriching, requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles as social researchers, development professionals, policy analysts, human resource specialists, or journalists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in NGOs, government agencies, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments. The program provides a robust foundation for advanced degrees like MA, MSW, or M.Phil., enhancing professional growth in the social sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Conceptual Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly grasp core sociological concepts, foundational theories, and the nuances of Indian societal structures. Utilize recommended textbooks, library resources, and online platforms like eGyanKosh for deeper understanding. This conceptual clarity is vital for critical analysis and forms the bedrock for advanced studies and career roles in research or policy.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Library resources, eGyanKosh, NPTEL
Career Connection
Develops strong analytical thinking and a comprehensive understanding of society, crucial for roles in social research, journalism, and civil services exams.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Debate Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions and debates on contemporary social issues, learning to articulate and defend arguments from diverse sociological perspectives. Engage in peer group studies to discuss readings and challenge assumptions. This practice hones critical thinking, essential for analytical positions and effective problem-solving in India''''s complex social landscape.
Tools & Resources
Classroom debates, Peer study groups, Departmental discussion forums
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving and communication skills, highly valued in policy analysis, advocacy, and leadership roles within NGOs or government.
Seek Early Field Exposure and Volunteering- (Semester 1-2)
Look for opportunities to volunteer with local NGOs, participate in college-organized community service, or conduct small observational studies in nearby communities. This provides practical insights into real-world social challenges, connecting theoretical knowledge with ground realities. Early exposure builds empathy and practical skills for development sector roles.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, College NSS/NCC units, Community service initiatives
Career Connection
Develops practical understanding of social issues, valuable for careers in social work, community development, and public service.
Intermediate Stage
Master Research Methodologies and Data Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus intensely on courses covering sociological research methods, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Practice designing research instruments, conducting mock interviews, and basic data interpretation using software like MS Excel or basic statistical tools. This proficiency is highly sought after by research firms, government agencies, and academic institutions in India.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, SurveyMonkey, Data analysis tutorials, Research handbooks
Career Connection
Prepares for roles as social researchers, data analysts, and project evaluators in development organizations and market research firms.
Engage with Specialization and Elective Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Go beyond the prescribed syllabus for chosen Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) such as Urban Sociology or Sociology of Health. Read academic journals, explore case studies relevant to India, and attend webinars on specialized topics. This focused exploration helps in identifying niche areas for future postgraduate studies or specific career paths within the social sector.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Research papers, Specialized webinars
Career Connection
Develops expertise in specific sociological sub-fields, opening doors to specialized research, policy, and advocacy roles.
Build a Professional Network and Attend Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to attend seminars, workshops, or academic conferences, even if online, organized by Dibrugarh University or other institutions. Network with faculty members, guest speakers, and fellow students. This builds valuable professional contacts and keeps you abreast of current research trends and career prospects in India''''s social science domain.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic conference listings, Departmental events
Career Connection
Expands professional contacts, providing mentorship and insights into job markets and higher education opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
For those opting for the Research Project DSE, dedicate significant effort to conceptualizing, executing, and writing a high-quality dissertation. This capstone experience allows for the application of all acquired methodological, analytical, and critical thinking skills. A well-executed project demonstrates readiness for advanced academic research or professional roles.
Tools & Resources
Research guides, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS basics), Institutional library
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, a key requirement for research positions, PhD admissions, and analytical roles in government.
Prepare for Higher Education and Career Entry- (Semester 5-6)
Proactively research postgraduate programs (MA, MSW, M.Phil.) and competitive exams like the UPSC Civil Services. Attend career counseling sessions, participate in mock interviews, and refine your resume and cover letter. Utilize the college''''s placement cell and alumni network for internships and entry-level positions in NGOs, CSR, or government sectors in India.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC study materials, Career counseling, College placement cell
Career Connection
Directly supports successful transitions into higher education, competitive government services, or corporate/NGO employment.
Enhance Digital Literacy and Presentation Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Improve proficiency in computer applications relevant to sociology, including advanced data visualization, content creation, and effective presentation tools. Practice presenting research findings and social analyses clearly and concisely to diverse audiences. These skills are essential for impactful communication in professional settings, policy advocacy, and academic conferences.
Tools & Resources
Canva, Prezi, Advanced MS Office features, Online public speaking courses
Career Connection
Strengthens ability to communicate complex ideas effectively, crucial for roles in media, public relations, and public policy advocacy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Higher Secondary Examination (10+2) or an equivalent examination recognized by Dibrugarh University with English as one of the subjects.
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 144 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC101 | Introduction to Sociology I | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts (Society, Community, Association), Culture and Socialization, Social Groups and Categories, Social Structure and Institutions |
| SOCC102 | Sociology of India I | Core | 6 | Understanding Indian Society (Colonialism, Nationalism), Rural and Urban India, Caste, Class, and Tribe, Family, Marriage, and Kinship in India, Religion and Society in India |
| SOAECC101 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources and Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Management, Social Issues and the Environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC203 | Introduction to Sociology II | Core | 6 | Sociological Theories (Functionalism, Conflict, Interactionism), Social Control and Deviance, Social Change (Theories and Agents), Social Stratification (Dimensions and Theories), Globalization and Society |
| SOCC204 | Sociology of India II | Core | 6 | Continuity and Change in Indian Society, Social Reforms and Movements, Challenges to Social Order (Poverty, Inequality), State, Politics, and Society in India, Education, Health, and Development in India |
| SOAECC202 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Theory of Communication, Listening Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills (Paragraph, Essay, Report), Speaking Skills (Presentations, Group Discussions) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC305 | Sociological Thinkers I | Core | 6 | Auguste Comte (Positivism), Herbert Spencer (Evolutionism), Emile Durkheim (Social Facts, Suicide), Karl Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Struggle), Max Weber (Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy) |
| SOCC306 | Methods of Sociological Enquiry | Core | 6 | Social Research Design (Quantitative, Qualitative), Data Collection Techniques (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Procedures, Measurement and Scaling, Ethics in Social Research |
| SOCC307 | Political Sociology | Core | 6 | State and Society (Theories of State), Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Political Participation and Citizenship, Political Culture and Social Movements, Civil Society and Public Sphere |
| SOSEC301 | Techniques of Social Survey | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Nature and Types of Social Survey, Formulation of Research Problem, Questionnaire and Interview Schedule Design, Fieldwork and Data Collection, Basic Data Tabulation and Presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC408 | Sociological Thinkers II | Core | 6 | G.H. Mead (Symbolic Interactionism, Self), C.H. Cooley (Looking Glass Self, Primary Groups), Talcott Parsons (Social System, Action Theory), Robert Merton (Manifest and Latent Functions), Erving Goffman (Dramaturgy, Presentation of Self) |
| SOCC409 | Social Stratification | Core | 6 | Theories of Social Stratification (Class, Status, Power), Caste System in India (Features, Changes), Gender and Inequality, Race and Ethnicity (Theories, Dynamics), Social Mobility (Types, Determinants) |
| SOCC410 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 6 | Theories of Religion (Durkheim, Weber, Marx), Religion and Society (Functions, Dysfunctions), Religious Pluralism and Conflict, Secularization and Fundamentalism, Religion and Globalization |
| SOSEC402 | Computer Applications in Sociology | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Basics of Computer and Internet, MS Word for Document Preparation, MS Excel for Data Management and Analysis, MS PowerPoint for Presentations, Online Resources for Sociological Research |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC511 | Sociology of Kinship | Core | 6 | Theories of Kinship, Types of Kinship and Descent, Marriage (Forms, Functions, Changes), Family (Types, Functions, Changes), Kinship in Contemporary India |
| SOCC512 | Economic Sociology | Core | 6 | Theories of Economic Sociology (Formalist vs Substantivist), Division of Labour and Exchange, Market, Work, and Organization, Globalization and Economic Transformations, Consumption and Culture |
| SODSE501A | Urban Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Emergence of Urban Sociology, Urbanization in India (Trends, Patterns), Urban Problems (Slums, Poverty, Crime), Urban Planning and Governance, Global Cities and Urban Networks |
| SODSE501B | Industrial Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Industrial Revolution and its Impact, Classical Theories of Industrial Sociology, Work, Industry, and Organization, Industrial Relations and Labour Movements, Globalization and Changing Nature of Work |
| SODSE501C | Rural Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Rural Community (Characteristics, Changes), Agrarian Structure and Relations, Rural Development Programs in India, Rural Social Change and Modernization, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| SODSE501D | Sociology of Health | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Health, Illness, and Society, Social Epidemiology (Disease Patterns), Healthcare Systems (Public, Private, Indigenous), Health Policy and Planning in India, Medicalization and Public Health Issues |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC613 | Gender and Society | Core | 6 | Theories of Gender (Social Construction), Gender Roles and Socialization, Patriarchy and Feminism (Waves), Gender and Development (Empowerment), Gender-based Violence and Rights |
| SOCC614 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 6 | Theories of Environmental Sociology, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Social Impact, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Environmental Justice and Governance |
| SODSE602A | Sociology of Development | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Theories of Development (Modernization, Dependency), Underdevelopment and Global Inequality, Development Models and Strategies, Sustainable Development and its Challenges, Development, Displacement, and Human Rights |
| SODSE602B | Sociology of Education | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Education and Society (Functions, Dysfunctions), Education and Social Stratification (Inequality), Education and Social Change, Educational Policies in India (NEP), Challenges in Indian Education System |
| SODSE602C | Research Project/Dissertation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation |
| SODSE602D | Population Studies | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Introduction to Demography (Concepts, Theories), Population Composition and Characteristics, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration, Population Policies in India, Population and Development Linkages |
