

BA in Sociology at Government First Grade College Shankaranarayana


Udupi, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Government First Grade College Shankaranarayana Udupi?
This Sociology program at Government First Grade College, Udupi, focuses on analyzing human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It provides a comprehensive understanding of social structures, processes, and issues relevant to the Indian context, preparing students for critical thinking and social engagement. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep sociological imagination, equipping graduates with valuable analytical skills demanded across various sectors in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in understanding societal dynamics, social issues, and human interaction. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into fields like social work, public administration, research, and non-profit organizations. It''''s also suitable for those passionate about advocating for social justice and contributing to policy development within India, preparing them for roles requiring strong observational and analytical abilities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including social researchers, policy analysts, community development officers, human resource specialists, and journalists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program also provides a strong foundation for higher studies in sociology, social work, public policy, or journalism, aligning with growing demands for socially conscious professionals.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core sociological concepts like society, culture, socialization, and stratification. Regularly review class notes, form study groups, and utilize online resources like eGyanKosh (IGNOU) or Swayam for supplementary learning.
Tools & Resources
eGyanKosh, Swayam, College library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is crucial for higher-level courses and for analytical roles in research or policy.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Engage critically with assigned readings, sociological texts, and current affairs. Practice summarizing complex arguments and identifying underlying social issues. Participate actively in classroom discussions to refine your analytical perspective.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (via library access), Reputable news sources, Debate clubs
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving and critical thinking, essential for any professional role, especially in research, journalism, or advocacy.
Engage with Local Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Observe and reflect on social phenomena in your immediate surroundings – Udupi and Karnataka. Connect classroom theories to real-world examples. Volunteer with local NGOs or participate in community awareness programs to gain practical insights.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs (e.g., those working on environmental, health, or education issues in Udupi), College NSS/NCC units
Career Connection
Builds empathy and practical understanding of social issues, valuable for social work, community development, and public administration careers.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Classical Sociological Theories Deeply- (Semester 3-4)
Dive into the works of classical thinkers like Durkheim, Marx, and Weber beyond textbook summaries. Understand their methodologies and theoretical contributions. Consider writing short essays or presentations on their relevance to contemporary Indian society.
Tools & Resources
Original texts (accessible through library or online archives), Academic commentaries, University seminars/workshops
Career Connection
Develops strong theoretical grounding and research acumen, essential for academic pursuits, policy analysis, and advanced research roles.
Conduct Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 5)
Take initiative to design and execute small-scale research projects on local social issues, applying research methodology learned in Semester 5. This could involve surveys, interviews, or content analysis under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (basic Excel, R for beginners), Survey tools (Google Forms), College research cell, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Gaining hands-on research experience is invaluable for careers in academic research, market research, government policy, and data analysis.
Network and Attend Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend sociology departmental seminars, intercollegiate workshops, and guest lectures related to social issues. Connect with faculty, senior students, and professionals in the social sector. Use platforms like LinkedIn to explore relevant professional networks.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College career guidance cell, Workshop announcements from Mangalore University
Career Connection
Expands professional network, provides exposure to diverse career paths, and opens doors for internships and mentorship opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Independent Capstone Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
In the final semester, commit to a significant research project or dissertation on a chosen area of specialization within Indian sociology. This project should demonstrate comprehensive application of theoretical knowledge and research skills.
Tools & Resources
Extensive literature review, Advanced research methods, Statistical analysis tools, Faculty supervision, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
A well-executed capstone project showcases expertise and research capability, significantly boosting prospects for postgraduate studies, research positions, and thought leadership roles.
Prepare for Higher Education and Civil Services- (Semester 6)
Explore postgraduate options in Sociology (MA, M.Phil, PhD) or related fields (Social Work, Public Policy). Simultaneously, begin preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs, or NET/SET, leveraging the strong foundation built in sociology.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), Online test series, Previous year question papers, Government job portals
Career Connection
Direct pathway to prestigious government roles (IAS, KAS) or academic careers, which are highly valued and impactful in India.
Develop Professional Communication & Advocacy Skills- (Semester 6)
Practice presenting research findings effectively, both orally and in writing. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions to hone communication skills. Engage in advocacy initiatives or debates on contemporary social issues to articulate informed positions.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell workshops, Public speaking clubs, Online communication courses, Debates/elocution competitions
Career Connection
Essential for interviews, presentations in professional settings, and advocating for social change, crucial for roles in PR, journalism, and advocacy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 48 (for Sociology Optional subjects only) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 101 | Introduction to Sociology I | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts (Society, Community, Association, Institution, Group), Social Structure, Culture, Socialization |
| S.O. 102 | Basic Sociological Concepts I | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Social Interaction, Status and Role, Norms and Values, Social Control, Social Deviance, Social Stratification (Class, Caste, Gender) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 201 | Introduction to Sociology II | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Social Change, Theories of Social Change, Modernization, Westernization, Sanskritization, Social Movements |
| S.O. 202 | Basic Sociological Concepts II | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Marriage, Family, Kinship, Religion, Education, Economy and Polity (Sociological perspectives) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 301 | Classical Sociological Thinkers I | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Auguste Comte (Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences), Herbert Spencer (Social Darwinism, Evolution), Emile Durkheim (Social Facts, Division of Labor, Suicide), Karl Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Conflict) |
| S.O. 302 | Rural and Urban Sociology | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Rural Society (Features, Agrarian Social Structure), Rural Problems, Urban Society (Features, Urbanization, Urban Problems), Rural-Urban Continuum |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 401 | Classical Sociological Thinkers II | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Max Weber (Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic), Vilfredo Pareto (Circulation of Elites, Residues and Derivations), George Simmel (Forms of Interaction, Dyad and Triad) |
| S.O. 402 | Social Problems in India | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Poverty, Unemployment, Illiteracy, Caste Conflicts, Communalism, Regionalism, Drug Abuse, Juvenile Delinquency, Corruption, Women''''s issues |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 501 | Indian Society | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Unity in Diversity, Caste System, Tribal Communities, Backward Classes, Religious Minorities, Family and Kinship in India, Changing Agrarian Structure |
| S.O. 502 | Research Methodology | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Scientific Method, Research Design, Data Collection Methods (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire), Sampling, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 601 | Social Demography | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Basic Demographic Concepts, Theories of Population, Population Composition, Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Problems in India, Population Policy |
| S.O. 602 | Dynamics of Indian Society | Core (Optional Subject) | 4 | Social Reform Movements, Green Revolution, Globalization and Indian Society, Women''''s Empowerment, Human Rights, Environment and Society, New Social Movements |




