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B-A in Sociology at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya
Basti, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya Basti?
This Sociology program at Karma Devi Smriti Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Siddharth University, provides a comprehensive understanding of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It delves into the complexities of social structures, institutions, and processes, particularly within the Indian context. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis of societal issues, social change, and human interactions, preparing students for impactful roles in various sectors. The program is designed to foster a deep sociological imagination and equip students with analytical skills relevant to India''''s diverse social landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with an innate curiosity about society, human relationships, and social dynamics. It appeals to students aspiring for careers in civil services, social work, community development, journalism, research, and non-profit organizations. Individuals interested in understanding policy-making, human resource management, or pursuing higher education in social sciences will find this program particularly beneficial, regardless of their prior academic stream.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as social workers, community organizers, researchers, content writers, human resource professionals, and probation officers. Many also prepare for civil services examinations (UPSC, UPPSC). Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with significant growth potential in non-governmental organizations, governmental departments, and research institutions. The program also serves as a strong foundation for postgraduate studies in Sociology, Social Work, or Public Policy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding foundational sociological concepts, theories, and Indian social structures. Actively participate in class discussions and take detailed notes. Utilize Hindi and English resources to build a strong bilingual conceptual base.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks (Classes 11 & 12), Standard Indian Sociology texts by M.N. Srinivas, Andre Beteille, Online encyclopedias for quick concept clarity, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/UPPSC, analytical roles, and further academic pursuits. It enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Engage in Local Community Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Undertake informal observations of local social phenomena, community events, and daily life in Basti. Document your observations and relate them to theoretical concepts learned in class. This builds practical understanding of Indian society.
Tools & Resources
Field notebook, Personal diary, Discussion with local community leaders or elders, Local news reports
Career Connection
This practice develops observational skills vital for field research, social work, and journalism, enabling a more empathetic and grounded approach to societal issues.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a disciplined study routine, balancing theoretical reading with critical reflection. Practice summarizing key readings and preparing short essays on assigned topics. Seek feedback from professors regularly on your understanding and writing skills.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic articles (e.g., JSTOR via institutional access), Grammarly for writing refinement, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Strong academic discipline and analytical writing skills are fundamental for academic success, competitive exams, and any professional role requiring clear communication and critical thought.
Intermediate Stage
Participate in Social Research Skill Development- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage in workshops on social research methods, data collection techniques, and basic statistical analysis. Volunteer for departmental mini-projects or assist faculty in their research to gain hands-on experience in methodology.
Tools & Resources
Siddharth University''''s research methodology workshops, Online courses on basic statistics (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), Field visits to local research organizations/NGOs, Books on quantitative and qualitative research methods
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in academic research, government policy analysis, market research, and NGO project evaluation roles, opening doors to research assistant positions.
Seek Internships with Local NGOs/Government Bodies- (Semester 3-4)
Apply for short-term internships with local non-governmental organizations, community development centers, or government social welfare departments in Basti. This provides practical exposure to social issues and interventions in India.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available), NGO directories, LinkedIn for networking, University alumni network
Career Connection
Internships offer invaluable real-world experience, build professional networks, and can often lead to full-time employment opportunities in the social sector or help in civil services preparation by understanding ground realities.
Join Debates and Essay Competitions on Social Issues- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in college-level or inter-college debates, essay writing, and public speaking competitions focused on current social issues in India. This enhances critical thinking, articulation, and persuasive communication skills.
Tools & Resources
College Literary/Debate Societies, Current affairs magazines (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra), Newspapers and reputable news websites
Career Connection
These skills are essential for civil services interviews, journalism, public relations, advocacy, and any role requiring strong communication and the ability to present well-reasoned arguments.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 5-6)
Choose a relevant social issue for your final year project or dissertation. Conduct in-depth primary and secondary research, analyze findings, and write a comprehensive report under faculty guidance. Aim for publication in a college journal.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, University library for research papers, Statistical software (if applicable), EndNote/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
A strong research project demonstrates expertise and analytical capabilities, significantly boosting your resume for postgraduate admissions, research roles, and think tanks. It is a tangible output of your specialization.
Prepare Systematically for Civil Services and Other Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC/UPPSC and other competitive exams, dedicating specific time slots each day. Integrate sociology optional preparation with general studies. Form study groups with peers having similar aspirations.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC previous year papers, Standard study materials for optional subjects, Online coaching platforms (if affordable), Mentorship from senior students/alumni who cleared exams
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government jobs in India, offering a stable and impactful career path, aligning perfectly with the broad understanding of society gained through sociology.
Network and Attend Career-Oriented Workshops- (Semester 5-6)
Actively network with alumni working in social sciences, NGOs, government, and corporate HR. Attend career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops organized by the college or external agencies.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association, Career fairs, Professional development webinars
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering job opportunities, gaining insights into various career paths, and securing referrals. Strong career preparation ensures readiness for the job market post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent qualification from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) for B.A. Degree, 4 years for B.A. Honours with Research
Credits: Minimum 120 credits for a 3-year B.A. Degree (as per NEP guidelines, specific to major subjects outlined) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070101T | Introduction to Basic Concepts of Sociology (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Origin and Nature of Sociology, Scope and Relationship with other Social Sciences, Basic Sociological Concepts (Society, Community, Association), Social Groups and Institutions (Family, Marriage, Kinship), Social Structure, Status, Role, and Culture, Socialization and Social Control |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070201T | Indian Society: Structure and Change (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Understanding Indian Society, Unity in Diversity and Demographic Profile, Caste System, Varna, Jati, and Class in India, Family, Marriage, and Kinship Systems in India, Religion and its Role in Indian Society, Social Problems and Movements in India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070301T | Sociology of Indian Rural and Urban Society (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Concepts of Rural Sociology, Characteristics of Rural Society and Economy in India, Rural Development Programs and Challenges, Concepts of Urban Sociology, Urbanization in India and its Consequences, Urban Problems and Social Issues |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070401T | Social Research Methods (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Meaning, Nature, and Types of Social Research, Scientific Method and Hypothesis Formulation, Research Design and its Components, Methods of Data Collection (Observation, Interview, Survey), Sampling Techniques and their Application, Data Analysis, Report Writing, and Ethics in Research |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070501T | Classical Sociological Thinkers (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Auguste Comte: Positivism and Social Statics/Dynamics, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labor, Suicide, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Contributions of Classical Thinkers to Sociology, Impact of Classical Thought on Contemporary Sociological Theory |
| A070502T | Social Problems and Social Welfare (Major) | Major Elective | 5 | Meaning, Causes, and Classification of Social Problems, Poverty, Unemployment, and Population Explosion, Drug Addiction, Juvenile Delinquency, and Crime, Problems of Women, Children, Elderly, and Disabled, Issues of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Minorities, Concept of Social Welfare and Major Welfare Programs in India |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A070601T | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology (Major) | Major Core | 5 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theory (Coser, Dahrendorf), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Post-Modernism and Post-Structuralism, Recent Trends and Debates in Sociological Theory |
| A070602T | Globalization and Indian Society (Major) | Major Elective | 5 | Concept and Dimensions of Globalization, Impact of Globalization on Indian Economy and Polity, Impact on Indian Society, Culture, and Identity, Globalization and Social Movements in India, Challenges and Opportunities of Globalization, Neo-Liberalism and its Societal Implications |
