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M-A in Sociology at CH. BANWARI LAL MAHAVIDYALAYA, HASERAN, KANNAUJ
Kannauj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at CH. BANWARI LAL MAHAVIDYALAYA, HASERAN, KANNAUJ Kannauj?
This M.A. Sociology program at CH. BANWARI LAL MAHAVIDYALAYA focuses on a comprehensive understanding of human society, its structures, institutions, and dynamics. With a curriculum designed by CSJMU, Kanpur, it delves into classical and contemporary sociological theories, diverse research methodologies, and critical issues in Indian society such as caste, class, gender, and development. The program aims to equip students with analytical skills essential for understanding complex social phenomena and contributing to social change. In the Indian context, a strong sociological foundation is crucial for addressing unique societal challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates holding a Bachelor''''s degree in Sociology or related social science disciplines who aspire to build a career in social research, policy analysis, or community development. It also caters to working professionals from NGOs, government departments, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) wings looking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and research skills for career advancement. Individuals passionate about understanding societal patterns, advocating for social justice, and contributing to nation-building will find this program highly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including social researchers, project managers in NGOs, policy analysts in government organizations, academics, and CSR professionals. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-12 LPA in research or development sectors. The program provides a strong foundation for pursuing M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees, enhancing career growth in academia and advanced research, and aligning with roles in social impact consulting.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand the foundational theories of sociology from thinkers like Durkheim, Weber, and Marx. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts, create concept maps, and relate theories to contemporary Indian social issues. This deep conceptual understanding is vital.
Tools & Resources
Key textbooks, Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Sociological Bulletin), Online lecture series (e.g., NPTEL Social Sciences), University library resources
Career Connection
Strong theoretical grounding is essential for any role in social research, policy analysis, or teaching, providing the framework to interpret social data and design effective interventions.
Develop Robust Research Methodology Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in the research methodology papers by practicing data collection techniques (designing questionnaires, conducting interviews) and basic statistical analysis. Seek opportunities for small-scale pilot studies on campus or in local communities to apply learned methods.
Tools & Resources
SPSS or R for basic data analysis, Google Scholar for literature review, Local community organizations for field exposure
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly sought after by NGOs, research firms, government bodies, and academic institutions for data-driven decision-making and program evaluation.
Engage with Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, regularly read newspaper articles, watch documentaries, and participate in local community events or discussions related to topics like rural transformation, caste dynamics, or urban challenges in India. This contextual understanding enhances theoretical learning.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian news sources (The Hindu, Indian Express), Documentaries on social issues, Local NGOs for community engagement
Career Connection
Deep insights into India''''s social fabric are indispensable for roles in social work, public policy, the development sector, and journalism focused on national issues.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake an Applied Field Study/Internship- (Semester breaks after Sem 2 or during Sem 3)
Actively seek out short-term internships or volunteer opportunities with local NGOs, government social welfare departments, or research institutions. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects, data collection, or program implementation during breaks or within the semester.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), Direct outreach to NGOs in Kannauj/Kanpur region
Career Connection
Practical experience provides invaluable exposure to the functioning of development organizations, builds professional networks, and strengthens your resume for future employment in the social sector.
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Readings- (Semester 3-4)
Choose elective papers that align with your emerging career interests, such as Sociology of Health or Urban Sociology. Go beyond the prescribed readings to explore advanced texts and contemporary debates in your chosen sub-field to deepen expertise.
Tools & Resources
Jstor, Project MUSE, Academia.edu for advanced readings, Specific conferences or webinars on chosen specialization
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more targeted and competitive candidate for specific roles in health sector NGOs, urban planning bodies, or specialized research projects within India.
Participate in Academic Seminars and Workshops- (Throughout Semesters 3-4)
Attend webinars, seminars, and workshops organized by the university, other academic institutions, or social science associations. Present your research ideas or findings, fostering academic discourse and networking with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, Social science department mailing lists, Professional association websites
Career Connection
Public speaking, presenting research, and engaging in academic discussions enhance critical thinking, communication skills, and visibility within the academic and research community.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Approach your final dissertation or project work as a comprehensive demonstration of your sociological research abilities. Choose a relevant and impactful topic, conduct rigorous research, and produce a high-quality report that reflects your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, Statistical software, University library for reference material, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful portfolio piece, showcasing your independent research capabilities, critical analysis, and written communication skills to potential employers or PhD programs.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 4 and beyond)
Actively connect with alumni of the program and professionals in the sociology field through platforms like LinkedIn, university events, or mentorship programs. Seek career advice, explore job opportunities, and understand industry trends in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Career fairs
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to hidden job markets, mentorship, and opportunities in various social impact organizations, government bodies, and academic institutions across India.
Prepare for Higher Studies or Civil Services- (Semester 4)
If aiming for M.Phil./Ph.D., identify target universities and faculty, and start preparing research proposals early. For civil services or other competitive exams, integrate general studies preparation with your sociological knowledge for a strong foundation.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC syllabi, Coaching centers (if opted), University career counseling, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Targeted preparation for further academic pursuits or competitive examinations directly facilitates entry into advanced research, teaching roles, or prestigious government service positions in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A.) in Sociology or an allied social science discipline from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSOC-101 | Classical Sociological Thought - I | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte and Positivism, Emile Durkheim on Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber on Social Action, Ideal Types, Authority, Karl Marx on Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation, Dialectics and Social Change |
| MSOC-102 | Methodology of Social Research - I | Core | 4 | Social Research Nature and Scope, Scientific Method in Sociology, Research Design and Types of Research, Hypotheses Formulation and Variables, Sampling Techniques (Probability and Non-Probability), Data Collection Methods (Observation, Interview, Schedule, Questionnaire) |
| MSOC-103 | Sociology of India - I | Core | 4 | Approaches to Indian Society (Indological, Structural-Functional, Marxist), Caste System: Origin, Features, Changes, Class Structure and Stratification in India, Family and Kinship in India, Marriage Systems and their Transformations, Religion and Society in India |
| MSOC-104 | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Concepts of Rural Society and Rural-Urban Continuum, Rural Social Structure and Agrarian Relations, Agrarian Class Structure and Peasant Movements, Rural Development Programs in India (e.g., MGNREGA, NRLM), Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Governance, Challenges of Rural Transformation and Migration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSOC-201 | Classical Sociological Thought - II | Core | 4 | G.H. Mead on Self and Society, C.H. Cooley''''s Looking-Glass Self, Vilfredo Pareto''''s Theory of Circulation of Elites, Thorstein Veblen''''s Conspicuous Consumption, Georg Simmel on Formal Sociology, Conflict and Money, Modern Sociological Theories Overview |
| MSOC-202 | Methodology of Social Research - II | Core | 4 | Qualitative Data Analysis Approaches, Quantitative Data Analysis: Univariate and Bivariate, Statistical Measures (Central Tendency, Dispersion, Correlation), Regression Analysis and Hypothesis Testing, Ethics in Social Research and Research Report Writing, Introduction to Software for Social Research (e.g., SPSS, NVivo concepts) |
| MSOC-203 | Sociology of India - II | Core | 4 | Social Movements in India (Peasant, Dalit, Women''''s, Environmental), Tribes and Tribal Issues in India, Urbanization and Industrialization in India, Globalization and its Impact on Indian Society, Social Change in Modern India, Challenges of Development and Disparity |
| MSOC-204 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 4 | Industrial Society and Work Organization, Theories of Industrial Relations, Labour Welfare and Social Security, Impact of Technology on Work and Employment, Globalization and Labour, Trade Unions and Industrial Disputes |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSOC-301 | Theories of Social Change and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Change and Development, Evolutionary Theories of Social Change, Cyclical and Conflict Theories, Modernization and Dependency Theories, Globalization and Development, Theories of Underdevelopment |
| MSOC-302 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Urbanization Process and Trends, Urban Ecology and Morphology, Urban Social Structure and Life, Slums and Squatter Settlements, Urban Problems (Crime, Poverty, Environment), Smart Cities Concept and Urban Planning |
| MSOC-303 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Development and Underdevelopment, Development Theories (Modernization, Dependency, World Systems), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Human Development Index (HDI), Role of State, Market, and NGOs in Development, Grassroots Development and Participatory Approaches |
| MSOC-304(A) | Sociology of Health | Elective | 4 | Sociological Perspectives on Health and Illness, Social Determinants of Health, Health Care System in India, Public Health Challenges and Policies, Traditional and Alternative Medicine Systems, Health Policy, Planning, and Global Health |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MSOC-401 | Sociology of Kinship, Marriage and Family | Core | 4 | Concepts of Kinship: Descent, Alliance, Consanguinity, Forms of Marriage: Monogamy, Polygamy, Polyandry, Family Structures: Nuclear, Extended, Joint, Changing Family Patterns in Modern India, Marriage and Family in India, Gender Roles and Live-in Relationships |
| MSOC-402 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Basic Demographic Concepts and Measures, Theories of Population Growth, Population Composition: Age, Sex, Rural-Urban, Components of Population Change: Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Policy in India, Demographic Transition and its Implications |
| MSOC-403 | Gender and Society | Core | 4 | Gender as a Social and Cultural Construct, Patriarchy and Matriarchy, Feminist Theories and Perspectives, Gender Roles and Socialization, Gender Inequality and Discrimination, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Development |
| MSOC-404 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification and Proposal Development, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology: Data Collection and Analysis Plan, Fieldwork and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Presentation, and Viva-Voce |
