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MA-SOCIOLOGY in Sociology at Devi Sharan Degree College
Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Devi Sharan Degree College Maharajganj?
This Sociology program at Devi Sharan Degree College, affiliated with DDU Gorakhpur University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of social structures, processes, and issues in India and globally. It delves into classical and contemporary sociological theories, research methodologies, and specialized areas like rural sociology, gender, and development. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills relevant to current societal challenges and policy formulation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates in social sciences, humanities, or related fields seeking to deepen their understanding of society. It attracts individuals passionate about social issues, community development, and research. Fresh graduates aiming for roles in NGOs, government social sectors, or academia, as well as working professionals looking to transition into social research or policy analysis, will find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social researchers, policy analysts, community development officers, and project managers in NGOs. They can also pursue teaching and further academic research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5-4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 5-9 LPA or more, depending on the sector and role. The program also prepares for competitive exams like UGC NET/JRF.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Sociological Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand classical and contemporary sociological theories and concepts taught in Semesters 1 and 2. Utilize textbooks, reference materials, and online academic resources to build a strong theoretical foundation. Participate actively in classroom discussions and form study groups to clarify complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks (e.g., Ritzer, Merton), JSTOR (for academic articles), Sociology discussion forums
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in research, policy analysis, and for success in competitive exams like UGC NET for academic careers.
Develop Basic Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding research methodology and social statistics. Practice data collection techniques through small-scale surveys or interviews within your community. Learn to interpret basic statistical data and present findings clearly. Seek faculty guidance for designing mini-research projects.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (basic functions), Excel for data organization, SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, DDUGU Library resources
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued for roles in social research organizations, market research, and program evaluation in NGOs.
Engage in Community Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Actively observe social phenomena in your local environment, connecting classroom theories to real-life situations. Write reflective journals on social issues like poverty, gender inequality, or rural-urban dynamics. This enhances critical thinking and empathy.
Tools & Resources
Personal journals, Local newspapers and social media, Documentaries on Indian social issues
Career Connection
This practice builds observational and analytical skills essential for social work, community development, and anthropology-related careers.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Fieldwork- (Semester 3)
For papers involving fieldwork or practical application (like Sociology of Rural Society, Sociology of Education), actively seek opportunities to visit local NGOs, community centers, or educational institutions. Conduct structured interviews or participate in small community initiatives to gain practical exposure. Document your observations and experiences thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Interview guides, Observation checklists, Local NGO contacts (through college)
Career Connection
Hands-on fieldwork experience is invaluable for careers in social work, advocacy, and development sectors, demonstrating practical problem-solving skills.
Specialize through Electives and Readings- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose elective papers (e.g., Urban Sociology, Gender and Society) that align with your career aspirations. Beyond the syllabus, read additional books, journals, and reports related to your chosen specialization. Attend online webinars or workshops on these specific themes.
Tools & Resources
Research Gate, Academia.edu, Specialized books and journals, Coursera/edX courses on specific topics
Career Connection
Developing expertise in a niche area (e.g., gender studies, urban development) makes you a more competitive candidate for specialized roles in relevant organizations.
Participate in Academic Seminars and Debates- (Semester 3)
Actively prepare for and participate in departmental seminars, paper presentations, and debates. This hones your public speaking, argumentation, and critical analysis skills. Organize informal group discussions on current social issues to practice articulating complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
Presentation software (PowerPoint), Sociology journal articles, Debate clubs or university forums
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are vital for roles in academia, advocacy, policy communication, and leadership positions in any organization.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Select a compelling and relevant research topic for your dissertation. Work closely with your faculty supervisor, meticulously plan your research design, conduct thorough data collection, and present a well-structured and analytically sound thesis. This is your flagship academic output.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), Statistical analysis tools (if applicable), University library and research databases
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation demonstrates advanced research capabilities, which is crucial for PhD admissions, research positions, and thought leadership roles in organizations.
Prepare for Career Advancement Exams- (Semester 4)
Begin focused preparation for national-level exams such as UGC NET (for Assistant Professorship and JRF) or state public service commission exams (UPSC/UPPSC with Sociology optional). Utilize previous year papers, mock tests, and join study circles. This provides a clear path for academic or civil service careers.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET previous year papers, Standard reference books for competitive exams, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Success in these exams opens doors to prestigious academic positions, government roles, and significantly boosts career prospects in India.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Actively connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in your field through college events, webinars, and platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship to gain insights into career paths, industry trends, and job opportunities. Attend relevant conferences or workshops, even virtual ones.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society), College alumni network
Career Connection
A strong professional network can lead to internship opportunities, job referrals, and valuable career guidance, accelerating your entry into the workforce.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree from a recognized university, preferably with Sociology as a subject, as per DDUGU norms.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 101 | Classical Sociological Tradition | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte and Positivism, Herbert Spencer''''s Evolutionary Theory, Emile Durkheim''''s Social Facts and Suicide, Max Weber''''s Ideal Types and Social Action, Karl Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| SOC 102 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Scientific Research, Research Design and Types, Methods of Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| SOC 103 | Sociology of India | Core | 4 | Approaches to Indian Society, Caste System: Origin and Change, Class Structure in India, Religion and Society in India, Tribe in India |
| SOC 104 (A) | Sociology of Rural Society | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Rural Sociology, Rural Social Structure, Rural Development Programs, Agrarian Social Structure and Change, Rural-Urban Linkages |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 105 | Theoretical Perspective of Sociology | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Perspective (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Goffman), Ethnomethodology (Garfinkel), Postmodernism and Social Theory |
| SOC 106 | Social Statistics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Statistics, Measures of Central Tendency, Measures of Dispersion, Correlation Analysis, Regression Analysis |
| SOC 107 | Sociology of Change and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Social Change and Evolution, Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Social Movements in India, Environmental Sociology, Globalization and Social Transformation |
| SOC 108 (A) | Sociology of Education | Elective | 4 | Education and Society, Education and Social Mobility, Educational System in India, Inequality in Education, Education and Social Change |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 201 | Advanced Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Jurgen Habermas'''' Critical Theory, Anthony Giddens'''' Structuration Theory, Pierre Bourdieu''''s Theory of Practice, Manuel Castells'''' Information Age, Feminist Sociological Theories |
| SOC 202 | Population and Society | Core | 4 | Introduction to Demography, Theories of Population Growth, Population Structure and Composition, Population Policies in India, Family Planning and Health |
| SOC 203 (A) | Urban Sociology | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Urbanization and Urbanism, Theories of Urban Growth, Urban Social Structure, Urban Problems in India, Urban Planning and Development |
| SOC 204 (A) | Gender and Society | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Sex and Gender, Theories of Gender, Gender Inequality and Patriarchy, Women and Development in India, Gender, Law, and Human Rights |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 205 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Environmental Sociology, Environmental Movements and Activism, Environmental Policies and Governance, Climate Change and Society, Sustainable Development |
| SOC 206 | Sociology of Mass Communication | Core | 4 | Theories of Mass Communication, Media and Society, Social Media and its Impact, Communication Technology and Change, Media Ethics and Responsibility |
| SOC 207 (A) | Social Gerontology | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Social Gerontology, Theories of Ageing, Social Problems of the Elderly, Policies and Programs for the Aged, Role of Family in Ageing |
| SOC 208 (A) | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 4 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Review of Literature, Data Collection and Fieldwork, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
