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MA in Sociology at CMS College Kottayam
Kottayam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at CMS College Kottayam Kottayam?
This MA Sociology program at CMS College Kottayam, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of social structures, processes, and changes. It delves into theoretical foundations, advanced research methodologies, and critical social issues relevant to India. The program aims to equip students with analytical skills to address complex societal challenges and contribute to policy-making and social welfare initiatives, meeting the growing demand for social scientists in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences seeking to build a strong theoretical and methodological foundation in sociology. It also benefits working professionals in NGOs, government sectors, or research organizations looking to enhance their analytical capabilities or transition into roles requiring advanced social research skills. Individuals with a keen interest in understanding Indian society, social policy, and developmental challenges are well-suited for this specialization.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as researchers, social workers, policy analysts, development professionals, and academics. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-10 LPA in Indian companies, NGOs, and government organizations. The program fosters critical thinking and research skills, aligning graduates for advanced studies or impactful careers in social development, public administration, and research institutions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Sociological Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand classical and foundational sociological theories from Durkheim, Weber, and Marx. Use study groups and participate actively in discussions to clarify complex concepts, as a strong theoretical base is crucial for advanced studies and critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks (e.g., Ritzer''''s Sociological Theory), Online academic journals (JSTOR, ResearchGate), Departmental study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation enhances analytical skills, essential for research, policy analysis, and understanding societal dynamics in any professional sociology role.
Build Foundational Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention to ''''Methods and Techniques of Social Research''''. Practice designing small-scale surveys, conducting mock interviews, and understanding basic data analysis. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine your methodological approach early on.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic data handling, MGU Library resources on research methods, Faculty consultations
Career Connection
Strong research skills are indispensable for careers in social research, data analysis, monitoring and evaluation, and policy formulation within government or NGOs.
Engage with Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively connect theoretical knowledge with contemporary Indian social issues discussed in ''''Indian Social Structure and Change'''' and ''''Rural and Urban Sociology''''. Read Indian newspapers, government reports (e.g., NITI Aayog), and watch documentaries to gain real-world context.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, EPW, Government of India official websites, Documentaries on Indian society
Career Connection
A nuanced understanding of India''''s social landscape is vital for roles in social development, public policy, and community engagement within the Indian context.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Analytical and Statistical Proficiency- (Semester 3)
Go beyond basic methodology. Focus on applying advanced quantitative and qualitative analysis techniques from ''''Advanced Research Methodology''''. Consider learning statistical software like SPSS or R for data analysis, and immerse in qualitative coding practices.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R software tutorials (Coursera, YouTube), Qualitative data analysis software demos (NVivo, ATLAS.ti), MGU research workshops
Career Connection
Advanced analytical skills make you highly competitive for research roles, data science positions, and impact assessment in both academic and development sectors.
Participate in Fieldwork and Internships- (Semester 3)
Seek out opportunities for short-term internships or fieldwork with local NGOs, social enterprises, or government departments related to development, gender, or population studies. This practical exposure will bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online platforms for NGO internships (e.g., Idealist.org, DevNetJobs), Local community organizations
Career Connection
Direct field experience enhances your resume, builds a professional network, and provides invaluable insights into practical challenges, crucial for roles in social work, development, and community management.
Engage with Contemporary Debates and Scholars- (Semester 3)
Actively follow contemporary sociological theories and debates, especially those concerning globalization, environment, and gender. Attend webinars, guest lectures, and read recent publications by prominent Indian and international sociologists to stay updated and form your own perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Online seminars by CSDS, JNU, TISS, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Social Science journals
Career Connection
Staying abreast of current scholarly discussions is essential for academic careers, think tank positions, and for contributing cutting-edge insights in policy formulation.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Impactful Dissertation Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that is both personally engaging and highly relevant to contemporary Indian society. Work closely with your supervisor, focusing on rigorous methodology and a clear analytical framework. Aim for a project that could potentially be published or presented at a conference.
Tools & Resources
MGU Research Guidelines, Statistical software, Online survey platforms (Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), MGU library resources
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for academic positions, research fellowships, and demonstrates independent research capability to potential employers.
Prepare for Career Opportunities and Higher Education- (Semester 4)
Start preparing for competitive exams (UGC NET/JRF for academia, civil services for government roles) or job interviews. Develop a professional CV, practice your public speaking skills for the Viva Voce, and network with alumni to explore diverse career pathways.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET study materials, Career counseling cell at CMS College, LinkedIn for professional networking, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive career preparation ensures a smooth transition post-MA, whether entering the job market in NGOs, government, or pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D. programs.
Develop Policy Analysis and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 4)
Translate sociological insights into actionable policy recommendations. Focus on how sociological findings can inform public policy, particularly regarding social justice, gender equality, and sustainable development. Engage in debates on policy documents and analyze their social impact.
Tools & Resources
Government policy documents, Reports from UN agencies, World Bank, NITI Aayog, Workshops on policy brief writing
Career Connection
These skills are critical for roles in public administration, think tanks, policy advocacy groups, and international development organizations working on social issues in India and globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate with a B.A./B.Sc. Degree of M.G. University or an equivalent degree from any other University recognized by M.G. University, with not less than 45% marks in Part III (optional/main). Relaxation as per M.G. University norms for SC/ST candidates.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCC101 | Foundation of Sociological Theory | Core | 4 | Emergence of Sociology, Enlightenment and Counter-Enlightenment, Positivism and early thinkers (Comte, Spencer), Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Methodology, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation |
| SCC102 | Methods and Techniques of Social Research | Core | 4 | Scientific Method in Social Sciences, Types of Research Design (Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental), Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches, Sampling Techniques (Probability, Non-Probability), Data Collection Methods (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire), Basic Data Analysis and Research Ethics |
| SCC103 | Indian Social Structure and Change | Core | 4 | Classical Views on Indian Society, Caste System and its Dynamics, Family, Kinship, and Marriage in India, Village Communities and Agrarian Structure, Social Change Theories (Sanskritization, Westernization, Modernization), Impact of Globalization on Indian Society |
| SCC104 | Rural and Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Concepts of Rural and Urban, Rural Social Structure and Agrarian Relations, Rural Development Programs in India, Urbanization Trends and Theories, Urban Problems (Slums, Poverty, Crime), Urban Planning and Policies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCC201 | Classical Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theory (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenological Sociology and Ethnomethodology, Critical Theory (Frankfurt School), Feminist Sociological Theories |
| SCC202 | Advanced Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Qualitative Research Strategies (Ethnography, Case Study, Grounded Theory), Quantitative Data Analysis (Univariate, Bivariate, Multivariate), Hypothesis Testing and Statistical Inference, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Research Report Writing and Presentation, Computer Applications in Social Science Research |
| SCC203 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development (Modernization, Dependency, World Systems), Underdevelopment and Global Inequality, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Human Development Index (HDI), Role of State, Market, and Civil Society in Development, Development Challenges in India (Poverty, Inequality, Displacement) |
| SCC204 | Social Stratification | Core | 4 | Theories of Social Stratification (Marx, Weber), Dimensions of Inequality (Class, Status, Power), Social Mobility (Inter-generational, Intra-generational), Caste, Race, Ethnicity and their Dynamics, Gender and Sexuality as Stratifiers, Social Exclusion and Marginalization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCC301 | Contemporary Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Post-structuralism and Post-modernism, Anthony Giddens: Structuration Theory, Pierre Bourdieu: Habitus, Field, Capital, Theories of Globalization (Giddens, Robertson), Network Society (Manuel Castells), Risk Society (Ulrich Beck), Actor-Network Theory |
| SCC302 | Population and Society | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Demography, Theories of Population (Malthus, Demographic Transition), Population Growth, Fertility, Mortality Trends in India, Migration: Types, Causes, Consequences, Population Policy in India, Demographic Dividend, Ageing Population, Health and Society |
| SCC303 | Sociology of Kinship | Core | 4 | Kinship Systems: Descent and Alliance, Forms of Family and Marriage, Changing Family Structures in India, Live-in Relationships and Emerging Family Forms, Reproductive Technologies and Kinship, Gender and Kinship Dynamics |
| SCC304 | Gender and Society | Core | 4 | Distinction between Sex and Gender, Social Construction of Gender Roles, Feminist Perspectives on Gender, Patriarchy and Gender Inequality in India, Women''''s Movements and Activism, Gender and Development, LGBTQIA+ Issues |
| SEC305 | Elective I (Example: Political Sociology) | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Power, Authority, and State, Political Systems and Democracy, Nation-State and Citizenship, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Social Movements and Civil Society, Globalization and Politics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCC401 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 4 | Human-Environment Relationship Theories, Environmental Problems (Pollution, Climate Change, Resource Depletion), Environmental Movements and Activism, Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice, Disasters, Risk and Society, Green Consumption and Lifestyle |
| SCC402 | Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Gap Identification, Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Academic Writing and Thesis Structure, Presentation Skills, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| SCC403 | Viva Voce | Assessment | 4 | Oral Examination of Dissertation, Defense of Research Findings, Demonstration of Subject Matter Knowledge, Understanding of Research Methodology, Critical Thinking and Argumentation Skills, Overall Comprehension of Sociology |
| SEC404 | Elective II (Example: Sociology of Health and Illness) | Elective | 4 | Social Construction of Health and Illness, The Illness Experience and Patient Role, Traditional and Modern Medical Systems, Health Inequality and Social Determinants of Health, Public Health Policies in India, Disease Burden and Health Seeking Behaviour |
