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MA in Sociology at Kabutari Devi Rajeshwar Tripathi Smarak Mahavidyalaya
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Kabutari Devi Rajeshwar Tripathi Smarak Mahavidyalaya Gorakhpur?
This MA Sociology program at Kabutari Devi Rajeshwar Tripathi Smarak Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of social structures, processes, and dynamics within an Indian context. It delves into classical and contemporary sociological theories, rigorous research methodologies, and critical social issues. The program prepares students for roles in social research, development, policy analysis, and community engagement, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals who can understand and address complex societal challenges in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Sociology or related humanities/social science fields seeking entry into research or social sector careers. It also suits working professionals, such as NGO workers, government employees in social welfare departments, or educators, looking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and analytical skills. Individuals passionate about social justice, community development, and public policy will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Social Researchers, Development Professionals, Policy Analysts, NGO Coordinators, CSR Managers, or Educators. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong theoretical foundation and research skills acquired align with demands in government sectors, academic institutions, and a burgeoning non-profit landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Core- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time in Semesters 1 and 2 to deeply understand classical and contemporary sociological theories. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts, engage with primary texts, and connect theories to real-world Indian social phenomena.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology books (for context), IGNOU Sociology materials, Online academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation is crucial for analytical roles in research, policy analysis, and competitive exams (UPSC, State PSCs) that demand strong conceptual clarity.
Master Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in research methodology courses, practice survey design, questionnaire formulation, and qualitative interview techniques. Seek opportunities to conduct small-scale primary data collection projects, even if informal, to gain hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (basic exposure), Qualitative data analysis concepts, Google Forms for surveys, Field observation guides
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in social research organizations, NGOs, and market research firms in India, opening doors to research assistant and data analyst roles.
Engage with Indian Sociological Thought- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, read extensively about prominent Indian sociologists and their contributions to understanding Indian society. Participate in departmental seminars or debates on contemporary Indian social issues to apply learned theories.
Tools & Resources
Works of M.N. Srinivas, G.S. Ghurye, B.R. Ambedkar, Journals like Sociological Bulletin, Departmental guest lectures
Career Connection
This provides a unique advantage for roles in Indian academia, think tanks focused on Indian policy, and development organizations working at the grassroots level.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects/Internships- (Semester 3-4 (including breaks))
Actively seek out opportunities for short-term internships with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or research centres during semester breaks (Semesters 2-3). Even a volunteer role can provide practical exposure to data collection and community engagement.
Tools & Resources
Networking with professors, Online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), Local NGO directories
Career Connection
Practical experience significantly boosts employability, demonstrating applied skills and commitment to the social sector, leading to better placements in development agencies or CSR roles.
Develop Data Interpretation Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on interpreting statistical data and qualitative narratives presented in case studies and research papers. Practice synthesizing information to draw meaningful sociological conclusions, preparing for the dissertation and analytical roles.
Tools & Resources
NSSO reports, Census of India data, Government policy documents, Online tutorials for data visualization
Career Connection
Strong data interpretation is essential for roles in policy analysis, program evaluation, and monitoring & evaluation within government and non-profit organizations.
Participate in Academic Competitions/Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Present research papers or posters at inter-collegiate sociology festivals, university-level seminars, or local conferences. This builds confidence, refines presentation skills, and expands academic networking beyond the institution.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards for events, Faculty guidance for paper submission, Presentation software
Career Connection
Enhances academic profile for higher studies (PhD) or research-oriented careers, showcasing intellectual curiosity and ability to articulate complex ideas.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Choose a relevant research topic, preferably with field study potential. Work closely with your supervisor, meticulously collecting and analyzing data, and refine your thesis writing. View it as a portfolio piece for future employers.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (R/Python basics if applicable), Academic writing guides, Citation management tools (Zotero/Mendeley)
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation demonstrates independent research capability, a key requirement for research analyst, project lead, and academic positions.
Prepare for Post-MA Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively research job roles (e.g., Junior Research Fellow, Project Officer, Social Worker, Academician) and organizations (NGOs, think tanks, government departments). Tailor your CV and cover letter, and practice interview skills, including case study analysis relevant to social issues.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Naukri.com, Devex (for development jobs), UPSC/NET exam patterns, Mock interviews with career services or mentors
Career Connection
Proactive preparation directly impacts placement success in preferred organizations, whether in the social sector, academia, or public administration.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-4 (ongoing))
Attend workshops, alumni meets, and public lectures by eminent sociologists or development practitioners. Connect with professionals in your areas of interest on platforms like LinkedIn to explore career mentorship and job leads.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Networking, Alumni association events, Industry-specific webinars
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering hidden job markets, gaining insights into industry trends, and securing referrals that can accelerate career growth in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Sociology or a related discipline from a recognized university, as per DDU Gorakhpur norms.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-101 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology-I (Classical) | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte and Positivism, Herbert Spencer''''s Social Darwinism, Emile Durkheim''''s Social Facts, Max Weber''''s Verstehen, Karl Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| SOC-C-102 | Methodology of Social Research-I (Quantitative Methods) | Core | 4 | Philosophy of Social Science, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Techniques (Survey), Sampling Procedures, Quantitative Data Analysis |
| SOC-C-103 | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Concept of Rural Society, Agrarian Social Structure in India, Rural Development Programs, Rural Migration and Change, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| SOC-C-104 | Sociology of Kinship | Core | 4 | Kinship Systems and Terminology, Family and Household, Marriage Patterns and Rules, Descent and Alliance Theories, Changing Kinship in India |
| SOC-DSE-105 | Industrial Sociology (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE-1) | Elective | 4 | Industrialization and Society, Theories of Industrial Relations, Labor Movements in India, Work Culture and Organization, Globalization and Indian Industry |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-201 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology-II (Contemporary) | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theory (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Goffman), Post-Modernism and Post-Structuralism, Feminist Sociological Theories |
| SOC-C-202 | Methodology of Social Research-II (Qualitative Methods) | Core | 4 | Qualitative Research Paradigm, Ethnography and Participant Observation, Focus Group Discussions, Content Analysis and Discourse Analysis, Case Study Method |
| SOC-C-203 | Indian Sociological Thinkers | Core | 4 | M.K. Gandhi''''s Social Philosophy, B.R. Ambedkar on Caste, M.N. Srinivas on Sanskritization, G.S. Ghurye''''s Indology, Yogendra Singh on Modernization |
| SOC-C-204 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Underdevelopment and Dependency, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Development Planning in India, Social Change and Development |
| SOC-DSE-205 | Sociology of Disasters (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE-2) | Elective | 4 | Concept of Disaster and Vulnerability, Disaster Management Cycle, Social Impact of Disasters, Community-Based Disaster Preparedness, Policy and Governance in Disaster Relief |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-301 | Social Stratification | Core | 4 | Theories of Social Stratification, Class, Status, and Power, Caste System in India, Social Mobility and Inequality, Global Stratification |
| SOC-C-302 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 4 | Classical Theories of Religion, Sacred and Profane, Religious Pluralism in India, Secularism and State, Religion and Social Change |
| SOC-C-303 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Urbanization Process in India, Urban Social Problems, City Planning and Development, Urban Governance and Administration, Smart Cities Concept |
| SOC-C-304 | Gender and Society | Core | 4 | Gender Roles and Socialization, Patriarchy and Feminism, Gender Inequality in India, Women''''s Movements and Empowerment, Gender and Development |
| SOC-DSE-305 | Sociology of Health (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE-3) | Elective | 4 | Health, Illness, and Society, Medical Pluralism in India, Public Health Challenges, Healthcare Systems and Access, Social Determinants of Health |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-401 | Environment and Society | Core | 4 | Environmental Sociology Perspectives, Human-Nature Interactions, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Social Impact, Sustainable Development Strategies |
| SOC-C-402 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Theories of Population, Fertility and Mortality Trends, Migration Patterns and Causes, Population Policy in India, Age and Sex Structure of Population |
| SOC-C-403 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Socialization and Self, Personality and Social Learning, Group Dynamics and Leadership, Social Influence and Conformity, Attitudes, Prejudice, and Discrimination |
| SOC-C-404 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 4 | Formulating Research Questions, Review of Literature, Data Collection and Analysis, Structure of a Dissertation, Viva Voce and Presentation Skills |
| SOC-DSE-405 | Sociology of Mass Media (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE-4) | Elective | 4 | Media and Society Interaction, Communication Theories, Effects of Mass Media, Digital Divide in India, Media Ethics and Regulation |
