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BA-HONOURS in Sociology at K. K. Das College
South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at K. K. Das College South 24 Parganas?
This Sociology Honours program at K. K. Das College focuses on understanding social structures, human behavior, and societal dynamics with a critical perspective. It delves into classical and contemporary sociological theories, research methodologies, and diverse facets of Indian society. The program aims to equip students with analytical skills to interpret complex social issues and contribute to societal development, aligning with the growing demand for social researchers and policy analysts in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in human society, culture, and social problems. It attracts students aspiring for careers in social research, journalism, civil services, NGOs, and human resources. Those seeking to understand societal inequalities, cultural diversity, and policy implications will find this program rewarding, providing a strong foundation for higher studies and diverse professional paths.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths in social work, public policy, urban planning, human resource management, and media. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in government bodies, think tanks, corporate social responsibility (CSR) divisions, and international organizations, with potential growth into leadership and research roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding classical and contemporary sociological theories and core concepts. Engage in regular reading of textbooks and recommended journal articles to grasp diverse perspectives. Participate actively in classroom discussions and form study groups to clarify complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
Core Sociology textbooks (e.g., Haralambos and Holborn, Anthony Giddens), University library resources, Online academic databases (JSTOR, ResearchGate via college access), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical thinking, essential for any career in research, policy, or social development, enabling informed decision-making.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice critical essay writing, literature reviews, and basic research proposal outlines. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to improve clarity, structure, and argumentation. Attend workshops on academic integrity and citation styles (e.g., APA/MLA) offered by the college.
Tools & Resources
College writing center (if available), Grammarly/QuillBot for grammar checks, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management, Workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing and research is invaluable for higher studies, report writing in NGOs, policy drafting, and professional communication.
Engage with Social Issues through Debates and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in college debates, seminars, and departmental talks on current social issues in India. Read newspapers and watch credible news analyses regularly to stay informed. Critically analyze societal problems using sociological concepts learned in class.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Public intellectual lectures (YouTube), College Sociology/Debate clubs
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, public speaking, and awareness of contemporary social realities, vital for roles in media, social activism, and public service.
Intermediate Stage
Master Social Research Methodologies- (Semester 3-5)
Pay close attention to research methods courses, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Practice data collection, analysis, and interpretation using case studies and small-scale projects. Learn basic statistical software if applicable.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R (for basic statistical analysis), NVivo (for qualitative data analysis - if introduced), Field visit opportunities, Survey tools (Google Forms)
Career Connection
Essential for roles in market research, policy analysis, program evaluation, and academic research, making graduates highly employable.
Undertake Internships with NGOs/Research Organizations- (Semester 4-6 (during breaks))
Actively seek internships during summer breaks with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or research institutes. Gain practical exposure to fieldwork, data collection, community engagement, and project implementation, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Online internship portals (Internshala, LetsIntern), College placement cell/departmental notices, Networking with faculty for contacts
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience, builds professional networks, and often leads to pre-placement offers or enhances employability for entry-level positions.
Participate in Fieldwork and Community Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in departmental fieldwork initiatives or volunteer for community service projects. Document experiences, collect primary data, and analyze findings from a sociological perspective. This deepens understanding of local social issues and challenges.
Tools & Resources
Field diaries, observation guides, Interview schedules, questionnaires, Community leaders, local government contacts, Ethical guidelines for research
Career Connection
Develops practical skills for social work, community development, and grassroots policy implementation, and provides valuable content for resume building.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Specialization and Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 7-8)
Choose elective courses that align with your career interests (e.g., gender, environment, development). Begin working on your Dissertation/Research Project early, conducting in-depth research, and contributing original insights to a chosen sociological area. Regularly consult with your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, research journals, Statistical/qualitative analysis software, Supervisor''''s guidance and feedback, Thesis formatting guides
Career Connection
Showcases specialized knowledge and research capability, a key differentiator for postgraduate studies, research positions, and specialized roles in policy or advocacy.
Prepare for Higher Education or Civil Services- (Semester 6-8)
For those aiming for Masters in Sociology or related fields, identify target universities and prepare for entrance exams. For civil services, begin general studies and optional subject preparation. Attend mock interviews and general knowledge sessions.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/JRF study materials, UPSC/SSC preparatory guides, Online coaching platforms, Alumni network for guidance
Career Connection
Directly enables progression to advanced academic degrees or entry into prestigious government services, providing significant career growth opportunities.
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Semester 6-8)
Attend seminars, conferences, and workshops in sociology or related fields. Network with faculty, alumni, and professionals. Create a strong LinkedIn profile showcasing skills, projects, and internships. Develop a portfolio of research papers or reports.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional sociological associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society), College alumni association events, Personal website/blog
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborative projects, enhancing visibility and career trajectory in the social sciences sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Higher Secondary Examination (10+2) conducted by the West Bengal Council of Higher Secondary Education or an equivalent examination recognized by the University of Calcutta.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 160 (for 4-year Honours Degree) / 176 (for 4-year Honours Degree with Research) 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-101 | Introduction to Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Nature, Scope, and Significance of Sociology, Basic Sociological Concepts, Major Social Institutions, Socialization and Culture, Social Control and Social Change |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-201 | Social Thinkers-I | Major (Core) | 5 | Enlightenment and Sociological Thought, Auguste Comte''''s Positivism, Herbert Spencer''''s Evolutionary Theory, Emile Durkheim''''s Social Facts and Solidarity, Max Weber''''s Interpretive Sociology |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-301 | Social Research Methods-I | Major (Core) | 5 | Fundamentals of Social Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques, Introduction to Quantitative Research |
| SOC-MJ-302 | Indian Society | Major (Core) | 5 | Approaches to Studying Indian Society, Caste System and its Transformations, Class Structure in India, Tribal Communities and Issues, Religion and Society in India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-401 | Social Thinkers-II | Major (Core) | 5 | Karl Marx''''s Historical Materialism, G.H. Mead''''s Symbolic Interactionism, Talcott Parsons'''' Structural Functionalism, Robert K. Merton''''s Middle-Range Theories, Erving Goffman''''s Dramaturgy |
| SOC-MJ-402 | Social Research Methods-II | Major (Core) | 5 | Introduction to Qualitative Research, Ethnographic Research Methods, Content Analysis and Discourse Analysis, In-depth Interviewing and Focus Groups, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-501 | Sociology of Development | Major (Core) | 5 | Concepts and Theories of Development, Development Models and Critiques, Development Issues in India, Sustainable Development Goals, Globalization and Development |
| SOC-MJ-502 | Urban Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Urbanization Processes and Patterns, Classical Theories of Urbanism, Social Problems in Urban Areas, Urban Planning and Governance, Rural-Urban Linkages and Migration |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-601 | Environmental Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Environment, Society, and Human Interaction, Sociological Paradigms of Nature, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Social Impact, Environmental Policy and Governance |
| SOC-MJ-602 | Rural Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Characteristics of Rural Society, Agrarian Structure and Change, Rural Development Programs, Poverty, Migration, and Livelihoods, Panchayati Raj and Local Governance |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-701 | Industrial Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Industry and Society Relationship, Theories of Industrialization, Industrial Relations and Labor Issues, Changing Nature of Work, Globalization and Indian Industry |
| SOC-MJ-702 | Political Sociology | Major (Core) | 5 | Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, State, Civil Society, and Governance, Political Parties and Electoral Processes, Social Movements and Collective Action, Democracy and Citizenship in India |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-MJ-801 | Gender and Society | Major (Core) | 5 | Concepts of Sex, Gender, and Sexuality, Gender Roles and Socialization, Patriarchy and Gender Inequality, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Development Issues |
| SOC-MJ-802 | Sociology of Health | Major (Core) | 5 | Health, Illness, and Society, Social Epidemiology and Health Disparities, Sociology of Medical Systems, Health Policies and Public Health in India, Biomedicine and Alternative Healing |
| SOC-MJ-803 | Dissertation / Research Project | Major (Core) / Research | 12 | Formulating a Research Proposal, Comprehensive Literature Review, Data Collection and Fieldwork Ethics, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Report Writing and Presentation |
