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BA in Sociology at DR. RAM MANOHAR LOHIA MAHAVIDYALAYA, JURIA (JALIHAPUR)
Kanpur Dehat, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at DR. RAM MANOHAR LOHIA MAHAVIDYALAYA, JURIA (JALIHAPUR) Kanpur Dehat?
This BA Sociology program at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya focuses on understanding society, human social behavior, and patterns of social relationships. It delves into the complexities of Indian society, its historical evolution, diverse cultures, and contemporary challenges. The program aims to equip students with analytical tools to critically examine social phenomena and contribute to societal well-being and development in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in social issues, public policy, and community development. It attracts individuals who wish to pursue careers in social work, civil services, journalism, or research. Aspiring students should possess strong communication skills and an empathetic approach towards understanding societal dynamics and human interactions.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in NGOs, social welfare departments, research organizations, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program also serves as a strong foundation for pursuing higher education such as MA, M.Phil, and PhD in Sociology or related fields, opening doors to academic and senior research positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core sociological concepts like society, culture, social institutions, and social stratification. Attend all lectures, take detailed notes, and actively participate in classroom discussions to clarify doubts. Form small study groups for peer learning and concept reinforcement.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks (Classes 11 & 12), Standard sociology textbooks (e.g., Haralambos & Holborn), Online academic tutorials (e.g., NPTEL, Swayam courses), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is crucial for all future studies and analytical roles in social research or policy formulation. It helps build the vocabulary and understanding needed to grasp complex social issues.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively in assignments that require library research and essay writing. Learn to synthesize information from various sources and present arguments coherently. Practice summarizing sociological theories and empirical findings clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, JSTOR, Google Scholar for academic papers, Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) for writing guidance, Feedback from professors
Career Connection
Proficiency in research and academic writing is essential for careers in research, journalism, policy analysis, and higher education. It enables effective communication of findings and ideas.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond memorization; critically analyze social phenomena around you. Observe local community structures, social interactions, and daily events through a sociological lens. Question assumptions and try to identify underlying social patterns and causes.
Tools & Resources
Sociological documentaries and films, Newspaper articles and editorial analysis, Local community observation projects, Sociological journals accessible via college library
Career Connection
Critical thinking is invaluable for problem-solving in any profession, especially in fields like social work, urban planning, and civil services, where understanding root causes of issues is key.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Field Surveys and Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in practical components like field surveys and case studies. Try to initiate small, self-managed research projects on local social issues (e.g., waste management in your locality, youth unemployment). Learn basic data collection techniques.
Tools & Resources
Questionnaire design tools (e.g., Google Forms), Basic statistical software (e.g., Microsoft Excel), Interview techniques and recording apps, Guidance from faculty mentors
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances employability in NGOs, market research firms, and government agencies. It develops skills in data collection, analysis, and project management.
Engage with Indian Social Thinkers and Problems- (Semester 3-4)
Deeply study the contributions of Indian social thinkers and analyze contemporary social problems in the Indian context. Participate in debates and seminars on caste, gender, poverty, and communalism, forming nuanced perspectives rooted in Indian realities.
Tools & Resources
Books by Indian sociologists and social reformers, Seminars and workshops on Indian society organized by the department, Documentaries on Indian social issues
Career Connection
A strong understanding of Indian social issues is critical for success in civil services, social policy formulation, journalism focused on India, and roles in organizations working for social justice in India.
Network and Attend Academic Events- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures related to sociology, even beyond campus. Connect with professors, senior students, and professionals in social fields. Join college clubs related to social sciences or community service.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards for event announcements, Professional social media platforms (e.g., LinkedIn), College alumni network, Local NGOs and community centers
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and helps in understanding various career paths. It provides insights into the practical application of sociological knowledge.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Dissertations- (Semester 5-6)
Choose advanced electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Criminology, Urban Sociology). If offered, undertake a substantial research project or dissertation under faculty guidance, focusing on a specific area of interest to build expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced sociological texts and journals, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for social data analysis), Dissertation guidelines from the university, One-on-one faculty mentoring
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a stronger candidate for niche roles in research, policy analysis, and postgraduate studies. A strong dissertation can be a significant resume booster.
Intensive Civil Services and Entrance Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
For those aspiring for civil services or further academic pursuits, begin intensive preparation. Focus on general studies and Sociology as an optional subject for UPSC/PCS exams. Utilize mock tests and previous year papers. For MA entrances, revise core sociological theories thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PCS syllabus and previous year question papers, Coaching institute materials (if chosen), Online test series, NCERTs and standard reference books
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after government jobs in India (IAS, PCS) and provides a competitive edge for admission to top MA programs in Sociology.
Engage in Internships and Community Action- (Semester 5-6)
Seek internships with NGOs, government social welfare departments, or research organizations during semester breaks or as part of the curriculum. Actively participate in community outreach programs or social awareness campaigns to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world impact.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell for internship leads, Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), Local NGOs and social enterprises, Departmental community engagement initiatives
Career Connection
Practical work experience is invaluable for placements, demonstrating commitment and applied skills. It builds a professional network and can lead to pre-placement offers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Variable (As per NEP 2020 guidelines, typically 120-150 credits for 3 years including Major, Minor, Vocational, and Co-curricular courses. Sociology Major papers contribute 30 credits.) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory papers), External: 75% (for theory papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080101T | Introduction to Basic Concepts of Sociology | Core (Major) | 5 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Association, Institution, Culture and Socialization, Social Structure and Status-Role, Social Groups and Social Processes, Sociological Theories (Brief Introduction) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080201T | Social Change & Social Control | Core (Major) | 5 | Meaning, Types and Factors of Social Change, Theories of Social Change (Evolutionary, Cyclical, Conflict), Concept and Agencies of Social Control, Social Deviance and Crime, Social Problems and Disorganization, Role of Law and Education in Social Control |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080301T | History of Indian Social Thought | Core (Major) | 5 | Sources of Indian Social Thought, Ancient Indian Social Thinkers (Kautilya, Manu), Medieval Thinkers (Kabir, Nanak), Modern Social Thinkers (Swami Vivekananda, M.K. Gandhi), B.R. Ambedkar, Ram Manohar Lohia, Radical and Reformist Movements |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080401T | Social Research Methods | Core (Major) | 5 | Meaning and Scope of Social Research, Research Design and Types of Research, Data Collection Methods (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080501T | Classical Sociological Thinkers | Core (Major) | 5 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Herbert Spencer: Social Evolution, Organic Analogy, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation |
| A080502T | Social Problems in India | Core (Major) | 5 | Poverty and Unemployment in India, Corruption, Crime and Juvenile Delinquency, Drug Addiction and Alcoholism, Caste Conflicts and Communalism, Gender Inequality and Domestic Violence, Environmental Degradation and Population Problems |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A080601T | Contemporary Sociological Theories | Core (Major) | 5 | Structural Functionalism (Talcott Parsons, R.K. Merton), Conflict Theory (Ralf Dahrendorf, Lewis Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Feminist Sociologies and Postmodernism, Globalization and World System Theory |
| A080602T | Rural and Urban Sociology in India | Core (Major) | 5 | Rural Society in India: Characteristics, Agrarian Structure, Rural Development Programs and Challenges, Urbanization in India: Trends and Consequences, Urban Problems: Slums, Pollution, Crime, Urban Planning and Smart Cities Initiatives, Continuum between Rural and Urban Areas |
