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BA-HONS in Sociology at College of Commerce, Arts & Science, Patna
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at College of Commerce, Arts & Science, Patna Patna?
This Sociology program at College of Commerce, Arts & Science, Patna, affiliated with Patna University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It delves into the complexities of social structures, institutions, and processes with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. The program aims to equip students with critical analytical skills to interpret societal issues, making it highly relevant for careers in social research, development, and public service in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for curious young minds completing their 10+2 who are interested in understanding societal dynamics, human interaction, and social challenges. It''''s also well-suited for individuals aspiring to careers in civil services, social work, journalism, or research, providing a robust theoretical foundation. A strong inclination towards reading, critical thinking, and empathy for social issues are beneficial prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including social work, policy analysis, journalism, HR, and civil services. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-15 LPA in development organizations or research roles. The program also provides an excellent base for higher studies like MA, M.Phil, and PhD in Sociology, leading to academic and research careers.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational sociological texts and theories from thinkers like Durkheim, Marx, and Weber. Regularly attend lectures, participate in class discussions, and form study groups to clarify complex concepts. Use online academic resources like JSTOR (if university access is provided) or NPTEL for supplemental learning.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Lecture notes, Study groups, JSTOR, NPTEL
Career Connection
A solid grasp of theory is crucial for advanced studies, research, and for critically analyzing social issues in professional roles like policy analysis or journalism.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on reading academic articles and books critically, identifying arguments, evidence, and counter-arguments. Practice structured essay writing, research paper outlines, and analytical summaries regularly. Seek feedback from professors on written assignments to improve clarity and coherence.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Writing guides, Peer review, Professor feedback
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for research, civil services exams, effective communication in any professional setting, and particularly in roles requiring documentation or report writing.
Engage in Early Field Visits and Observations- (Semester 1-2)
Organize or participate in short field visits to local communities, NGOs, or social welfare organizations. Even observing local markets, community gatherings, or public spaces with a sociological lens can be highly beneficial. Document observations in a journal to connect theory with real-world phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, Community centers, Observational journals, Mentors
Career Connection
Early exposure to societal realities helps in understanding the practical application of sociological concepts, fostering empathy, and informing future career choices in social work or development.
Intermediate Stage
Master Research Methods and Data Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Pay close attention to courses on sociological research methods and quantitative/qualitative analysis. Practice designing small-scale research projects, conducting interviews, and analyzing simple data sets. Look for opportunities to assist professors with their ongoing research to gain hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R (basic), Survey tools (Google Forms), Interview guides, University research projects
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in market research, policy analysis, academia, and development sectors, making graduates competitive for research-oriented roles.
Intern with NGOs or Social Organizations- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out summer internships or part-time roles with non-governmental organizations, social enterprises, or government departments involved in social welfare. This provides practical experience in areas like community development, advocacy, or project management, applying classroom knowledge to real challenges.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, College placement cell, NGO directories, Professional networking
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining industry exposure, building a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers or valuable experience for future job applications in the development sector.
Participate in Debates and Essay Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in college or inter-college debates, essay competitions, and youth parliaments on contemporary social and political issues. This hones public speaking, persuasive argumentation, and rapid critical thinking skills, essential for civil services and advocacy roles.
Tools & Resources
College cultural societies, Debate clubs, Online platforms for essay contests
Career Connection
These activities enhance communication and leadership skills, which are highly sought after in civil services, journalism, and corporate communication roles, showcasing intellectual agility.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Mini-Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Propose and execute a substantial mini-research project or dissertation under faculty guidance on a topic of interest. This involves comprehensive literature review, primary/secondary data collection, analysis, and report writing, simulating a real academic or professional research task.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Library resources, Data analysis software, Research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
A strong research project serves as a portfolio piece for higher education applications or demonstrates advanced analytical capabilities to potential employers in research firms or think tanks.
Prepare Systematically for Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
For those aiming for civil services (UPSC, BPSC) or other competitive exams, begin focused preparation by mapping the Sociology syllabus to exam requirements. Join relevant coaching, solve previous year papers, and focus on current affairs relevant to social issues. Develop time management and answer writing strategies.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/BPSC syllabus, Past year papers, Coaching institutes, Online test series
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation significantly increases chances of success in high-stakes government exams, leading to prestigious careers in public administration and policy implementation.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to interact with academics, social scientists, and professionals in related fields. Proactively seek mentorship from professors or alumni who have pursued careers aligned with your interests. Leverage LinkedIn for professional networking.
Tools & Resources
Professional events, LinkedIn, Alumni network, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, internships, and valuable career advice, helping students navigate their post-graduation journey more effectively and build a supportive professional circle.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent from a recognized board/university.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C1 | Introduction to Sociology | Core | 6 | Origin and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts: Society, Culture, Community, Socialization and Social Control, Social Groups and Institutions, Sociological Perspectives |
| SOC-C2 | Sociology of India | Core | 6 | Colonialism and Emergence of Indian Sociology, Caste System: Features and Changes, Family, Marriage and Kinship in India, Village Studies and Rural Transformation, Religion and Secularism in India |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecology and Ecosystems, Natural Resources and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Ethics and Legislation |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics, Psychology, History), Fundamental concepts of the chosen discipline, Basic theories, Key methodologies, Relevant case studies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C3 | Sociological Theories I | Core | 6 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Social Statics & Dynamics, Emile Durkheim: Division of Labour, Social Facts, Suicide, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation, Max Weber: Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Classical Sociological Traditions |
| SOC-C4 | Methods of Sociological Research | Core | 6 | Meaning and Significance of Social Research, Research Design and Types of Research, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Observation, Interview, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills: Report, Essay, Letter, Presentation Skills |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics, Psychology, History), Specific theories or concepts, Historical developments, Policy implications, Contemporary issues |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C5 | Political Sociology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, State and Civil Society, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Democracy and Citizenship in India |
| SOC-C6 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 6 | Sociological Perspectives on Religion, Rituals, Myths and Belief Systems, Religion and Social Change, Secularization and Fundamentalism, Religion in Contemporary India |
| SOC-C7 | Social Stratification | Core | 6 | Meaning and Dimensions of Social Stratification, Theories of Social Stratification: Functionalist, Conflict, Class, Status, and Power, Social Mobility: Types and Determinants, Inequality and Exclusion in India |
| SEC-1 | Social Problems in India | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept of Social Problem, Poverty and Unemployment, Drug Abuse and Alcoholism, Crime and Juvenile Delinquency, Corruption and Environmental Degradation |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics, Psychology, History), Advanced topics or specific areas of study, Interdisciplinary connections, Critical analysis, Research frontiers |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C8 | Economic Sociology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Economic Sociology, Work, Division of Labour and Exchange, Informal and Formal Economy, Globalization and Economic Change, Development and Underdevelopment |
| SOC-C9 | Sociology of Kinship | Core | 6 | Basic Concepts: Kinship, Affinity, Consanguinity, Descent and Alliance Theories, Marriage Systems and Rules, Family: Types and Functions, Kinship in Contemporary India |
| SOC-C10 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 6 | Sociological Approaches to Environment, Human-Environment Interaction, Environmental Movements and Governance, Sustainable Development, Risk and Disasters: A Sociological Perspective |
| SEC-2 | Introduction to Social Psychology | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Psychology, Social Perception and Attribution, Attitudes and Attitude Change, Group Dynamics and Leadership, Pro-social and Anti-social Behavior |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 6 | Chosen from another discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics, Psychology, History), Specialized modules or contemporary trends, Methodological approaches in the discipline, Policy making and social impact, Global perspectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C11 | Urban Sociology | Core | 6 | Emergence and Growth of Cities, Theories of Urbanization, Urban Social Structure and Issues, Urban Planning and Governance, Urbanization in India |
| SOC-C12 | Rural Sociology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Rural Sociology, Rural Social Structure: Caste, Class, Power, Agrarian Relations and Change, Rural Development Programs in India, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| DSE-1 | Sociology of Health | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Sociological Perspectives on Health and Illness, Social Determinants of Health, Health Care Systems and Access, Medical Pluralism in India, Disease, Disability and Society |
| DSE-2 | Criminology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Nature and Scope of Criminology, Theories of Crime Causation, Types of Crime: White-Collar, Cybercrime, Criminal Justice System in India, Punishment and Rehabilitation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C13 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 6 | Theories of Industrial Society, Work Organizations and Management, Industrial Relations and Trade Unions, Globalization and New Forms of Work, Labour in India: Formal and Informal Sector |
| SOC-C14 | Social Demography | Core | 6 | Introduction to Demography, Population Theories and Transition, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration, Population Structure and Composition, Population Policy in India |
| DSE-3 | Gender and Society | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Distinction between Sex and Gender, Theories of Gender, Gender Roles and Socialization, Gender Inequality in India, Women''''s Movements and Empowerment |
| DSE-4 | Social Movements | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Concept and Typology of Social Movements, Theories of Social Movements, Peasant, Tribal, and Dalit Movements in India, Women''''s and Environmental Movements, New Social Movements |
