

BACHELOR-OF-ARTS in Sociology at Canara College


Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Canara College Dakshina Kannada?
This Sociology program at Canara College, affiliated with Mangalore University, focuses on understanding social behavior, structures, and cultural patterns. It provides a robust foundation in theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, emphasizing the complex dynamics of Indian society. The program prepares students for roles in social research, community development, and public administration, meeting a growing demand for skilled social analysts in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds who possess a keen interest in human society and social issues. It also caters to individuals aiming for careers in civil services, NGOs, corporate social responsibility, and policy analysis, providing critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating India''''s socio-cultural landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in social work, urban planning, human resources, journalism, and research. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5-4 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The degree provides a strong base for postgraduate studies, competitive exams like UPSC, and roles in both government and private sectors focusing on social development.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational sociological theories and concepts from Semester 1 and 2. Utilize study groups for discussion, prepare concept maps, and relate theoretical knowledge to real-world Indian social phenomena through newspaper articles and documentaries.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks, Indian sociological journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Documentaries on Indian society
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is critical for cracking competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced research in sociology, setting the groundwork for analytical roles.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and basic research skills. Practice structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and summarizing academic texts. Participate in college debates and seminars to hone presentation abilities.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL for academic writing, Library resources for academic papers, Grammarly
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for any career requiring report writing, policy analysis, or academic pursuit, essential for NGOs, research roles, and government jobs.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Semester 1-2)
While focusing on sociology, explore related subjects like economics, political science, and history through open electives or online courses. This broadens perspective and enhances understanding of social issues in a multi-faceted manner.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL online courses, SWAYAM platform, College''''s inter-departmental lectures
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary knowledge makes graduates more versatile and adaptable, highly valued in roles spanning policy, journalism, and development sectors.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Social Research- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in small-scale field visits, surveys, or interviews related to course topics (e.g., Rural/Urban Sociology). Apply the sociological methods learned to understand local communities and their problems firsthand.
Tools & Resources
Google Forms for surveys, Basic statistical software (e.g., Excel), College research project guidelines
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience is invaluable for careers in social work, market research, and NGOs, providing practical skills for data collection and analysis.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-5)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and career fairs organized by the college. Connect with faculty, visiting experts, and alumni working in relevant fields like social development, HR, or public policy. Utilize LinkedIn for professional networking.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association events, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Building a strong network can open doors to internships, mentorship opportunities, and future job prospects in various Indian industries.
Specialize through Electives and Certifications- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) like Sociology of Health or Gender and Society based on career interests. Consider pursuing online certifications in areas like data analysis, public policy, or CSR management to gain an edge.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, Udemy for relevant certifications, NASSCOM FutureSkills Prime
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and certifications enhance employability in specific niche areas within social sciences, making graduates more attractive to employers.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 6)
Undertake a robust final year project or dissertation. Choose a topic with Indian context, conduct thorough research, and analyze findings critically. This showcases independent research capability and problem-solving skills.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software (R, SPSS, even advanced Excel), Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
A well-executed project is a powerful portfolio piece for academic positions, research roles, and for demonstrating analytical depth to potential employers.
Prepare for Civil Services and Higher Education- (Semester 6)
If aiming for UPSC/KPSC, start focused preparation including current affairs, general studies, and optional subject coaching. For higher education, identify target universities and begin preparing for entrance exams (e.g., NET, SET, university-specific tests).
Tools & Resources
UPSC/KPSC study material, Coaching institutes, Previous year question papers, Online mock tests
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation during this stage directly leads to successful entry into prestigious government services or advanced academic programs.
Seek Internships and Placement Opportunities- (Semester 6)
Actively search for internships in NGOs, CSR departments of companies, research organizations, or government bodies. Prepare a compelling resume and practice interview skills, leveraging the college''''s placement cell for support.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internshala, LinkedIn Jobs, Resume builders, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Practical internship experience often converts into full-time employment or provides crucial work exposure, significantly boosting placement prospects immediately after graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in PUC / 10 + 2 with required marks or equivalent recognized by Mangalore University.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters (for BA Degree)
Credits: 132 (for full BA Degree as per NEP 2020, including languages and other electives) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for theory), 50% (for practical/project), External: 60% (for theory), 50% (for practical/project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC1.1 | Introduction to Sociology | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts of Sociology, Social Institutions, Culture and Socialization, Social Control and Deviance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC2.2 | Sociology of India | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Features of Indian Society, Major Institutions in India, Unity and Diversity in India, Social Change in India, Challenges to Indian Society |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC3.3 | Sociological Theories | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Classical Thinkers (Comte, Spencer, Durkheim), Marx, Weber, and Pareto, Functionalism and Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Contemporary Sociological Theories |
| SODSE3.1 | Rural Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Nature of Rural Society, Rural Social Structure and Institutions, Rural Economy and Livelihoods, Rural Development Programmes in India, Rural Problems and Challenges |
| SODSE3.2 | Urban Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Nature of Urban Society, Urbanization in India, Urban Social Structure and Life, Urban Problems and Issues, Urban Planning and Development |
| SOSEC3.1 | Sociological Methods | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Social Research: Meaning and Types, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Observation), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC4.4 | Social Problems in India | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Poverty and Unemployment, Crime and Corruption, Environmental Degradation, Gender and Caste Discrimination, Issues of Marginalized Groups |
| SODSE4.1 | Sociology of Health | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Health and Society, Social Epidemiology, Healthcare Systems in India, Health Policies and Programmes, Medical Pluralism |
| SODSE4.2 | Sociology of Environment | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Environmental Sociology: Concepts, Human-Environment Interaction, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Society |
| SOSEC4.2 | Digital Sociology | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Society and Digital Media, Online Communities and Networks, Digital Identity and Self, Cyberculture and Virtual Worlds, Digital Divide and Inequalities |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC5.1 | Social Demography | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Demographic Concepts and Theories, Population Composition and Structure, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration, Population Policies in India, Urbanization and Demographic Transition |
| SODSC5.2 | Social Psychology | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Nature of Social Psychology, Socialization and Personality, Attitudes and Prejudice, Group Dynamics and Leadership, Social Influence and Conformity |
| SODSE5.1 | Industrial Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Industry and Society, Industrial Relations, Labour Movements in India, Globalization and Industry, Work Culture and Organisation |
| SODSE5.2 | Gender and Society | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Concepts of Gender and Sex, Social Construction of Gender, Gender Roles and Stereotypes, Gender Inequality in India, Women''''s Movements and Empowerment |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SODSC6.1 | Political Sociology | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, Political Systems and Social Structures, State, Civil Society, and Democracy, Political Culture and Socialization, Social Movements and Political Change |
| SOPROJ6.1 | Project Work / Dissertation (Sociology) | Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review Techniques, Data Collection and Analysis (Qualitative/Quantitative), Interpretation of Findings, Dissertation Writing and Presentation |
| SODSE6.1 | Sociology of Development | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Sustainable Development Goals, Globalization and Development in India, Role of State and NGOs in Development, Social Impact Assessment |
| SODSE6.2 | Sociology of Mass Media | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Media and Society, Theories of Mass Communication, Media Effects and Agenda Setting, Media Representation of Social Issues, New Media and Social Change |




