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MA in Sociology at Late Sarada Prasad Rawat Degree College
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Late Sarada Prasad Rawat Degree College Gorakhpur?
This MA Sociology program at Late Sarada Prasad Rawat Degree College, affiliated with DDU Gorakhpur University, focuses on equipping students with a profound understanding of societal structures, dynamics, and research methodologies. It delves into classical and contemporary theories, offering critical insights into Indian society, rural and urban sociology, and development studies. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for social scientists in India''''s diverse and rapidly evolving social sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Sociology or related social sciences seeking entry into academic research, social work, or policy analysis. It also caters to working professionals in NGOs, government, or development agencies looking to upskill their analytical and research capabilities. Individuals passionate about understanding societal issues and contributing to social change are well-suited for this comprehensive program.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths as social researchers, project managers in NGOs, policy analysts, academicians, or civil servants in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-15 LPA in research and development sectors. The program provides a strong foundation for higher studies like MPhil/PhD and competitive exams.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand foundational theories and concepts from classical thinkers like Durkheim, Weber, and Marx. Engage with readings, participate actively in class discussions, and use concept mapping to link theories to real-world Indian contexts.
Tools & Resources
Standard sociology textbooks (e.g., Haralambos & Holborn, Giddens), IGNOU study materials, NPTEL lectures on classical sociology
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical thinking, which is highly valued in research, policy analysis, and academic roles.
Develop Robust Research Aptitude- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on the ''''Logic of Sociological Enquiry'''' and ''''Methods of Social Research'''' papers. Practice formulating research questions, understanding different methodologies, and basic data collection techniques. Start reading research papers to grasp application.
Tools & Resources
Sociological Abstracts, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Research methods textbooks (e.g., Babbie)
Career Connection
Essential for any role requiring data interpretation, impact assessment, or academic research, opening doors in NGOs, government, and market research.
Engage with Indian Societal Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively connect classroom learning on ''''Indian Society'''' and ''''Rural/Urban Sociology'''' to current events and local issues. Read Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines (EPW), and engage in discussions about contemporary social problems in Uttar Pradesh and India.
Tools & Resources
Economic & Political Weekly (EPW), The Hindu, Government reports on rural/urban development
Career Connection
Develops contextual understanding and empathy, critical for social work, development roles, and civil services, directly addressing India''''s challenges.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3)
Thoughtfully select elective papers (e.g., Political Sociology, Sociology of Education, Environmental Sociology) based on career interests. Deep dive into chosen area through additional readings, online courses, and exploring related organizations.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX for specialized courses, Relevant academic journals for specific fields, Networking with faculty in chosen areas
Career Connection
Allows for early specialization, making you a more attractive candidate for niche roles in NGOs, think tanks, or government departments focused on your chosen area.
Undertake Mini-Projects or Fieldwork- (Semester 3)
Seek opportunities for small research projects, even self-initiated ones, or volunteer for local NGOs to gain practical fieldwork experience. This helps apply theoretical knowledge and research methods in real-world settings, enhancing practical skills.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs working on social issues, Faculty mentorship for small research studies, Basic data collection apps like KoboToolbox
Career Connection
Develops practical research and project management skills, highly valued by employers in the development sector and research organizations in India.
Participate in Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 3)
Attend university-level seminars, workshops, and guest lectures on current sociological topics. This broadens perspectives, introduces new ideas, and provides networking opportunities with experts and peers from other institutions in the region.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Departmental notices, Social media groups for academic events
Career Connection
Enhances academic exposure, builds professional networks, and keeps you updated on contemporary debates, making you more informed for interviews and discussions.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Semester 4 Project/Dissertation. Choose a topic of genuine interest, conduct rigorous research, and produce a high-quality academic output. This demonstrates independent research capability.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (SPSS, R basic functions), Referencing tools (Zotero, Mendeley), Library resources for academic writing
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a powerful portfolio piece, showcasing your research, analytical, and writing skills, critical for academic or advanced research positions.
Prepare for Post-MA Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively prepare for competitive exams (UGC NET/JRF, Civil Services), PhD entrances, or job applications. Tailor your resume, practice interview skills, and seek career guidance from faculty and university placement cells. Network with alumni.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET study guides, Current affairs magazines, University career counseling services, LinkedIn for alumni networking
Career Connection
Directly supports placement into government jobs, research fellowships, or academic positions, aligning with major career paths for MA Sociology graduates in India.
Build a Professional Digital Presence- (Semester 4)
Create a professional LinkedIn profile showcasing academic achievements, research interests, and any projects. Connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in the social sector. This aids in job searching and professional networking.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academia.edu or ResearchGate (for sharing papers), Personal academic blog (optional)
Career Connection
Increases visibility to potential employers and collaborators, crucial for accessing hidden job markets and building a professional reputation in the Indian social science community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (minimum 3 years) with Sociology as a subject or a relevant discipline from a recognized university, with at least 40% aggregate marks.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOG-101 | Classical Sociological Traditions | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte''''s Positivism, Herbert Spencer''''s Evolutionism, Emile Durkheim''''s Social Facts, Max Weber''''s Interpretive Sociology, Karl Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| SOG-102 | Logic of Sociological Enquiry | Core | 4 | Philosophy of Social Science, Scientific Method in Sociology, Research Design and its Types, Data Collection Techniques, Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches |
| SOG-103 | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Understanding Rural Society, Agrarian Social Structure in India, Rural Development Programs, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rural Migration and its Impacts |
| SOG-104 | Indian Society: Structure and Change | Core | 4 | Concepts of Indian Society, Caste System and its Dynamics, Family, Marriage and Kinship, Religious Pluralism in India, Processes of Social Change |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOG-201 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Feminist Perspectives, Post-Modernist Thought |
| SOG-202 | Methods of Social Research | Core | 4 | Types of Social Research, Sampling Techniques, Interview and Observation, Case Study Method, Content Analysis |
| SOG-203 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Urbanization and its Trends, Urban Social Structure, Urban Problems and Challenges, Urban Planning and Policy, Slums and Urban Governance |
| SOG-204 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Concept of Underdevelopment, Sustainable Development Goals, Indicators of Development, Globalization and Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOG-301 | Social Stratification | Core | 4 | Concepts of Class, Status, Power, Caste System in India, Gender and Inequality, Race and Ethnicity, Theories of Social Mobility |
| SOG-302 | Sociology of Kinship, Family & Marriage | Core | 4 | Kinship Systems and Lineage, Types of Family Structures, Patterns of Marriage, Changes in Family and Marriage, Gender Roles and Family |
| SOG-303 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 4 | Industrial Society and its Features, Division of Labour, Industrial Relations, Labour Movements in India, Globalization of Work and Industry |
| SOG-304 | Political Sociology | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Power and Authority, State and Civil Society, Political Parties and Elections, Democracy and Participation, Social Movements and Political Change |
| SOG-305 | Sociology of Education | Elective | 4 | Education and Socialization, Education as an Agent of Change, Inequality in Education, Educational Policies in India, Role of Teachers and Institutions |
| SOG-306 | Environmental Sociology | Elective | 4 | Environment and Society Interface, Ecological Crisis and its Causes, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development, Environmental Governance and Policy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOG-401 | Contemporary Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Structuralism and Post-Structuralism, Post-Colonialism, Critical Theory, Practice Theory, Theories of Globalization |
| SOG-402 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 4 | Theories of Religion, Religion and Social Change, Religious Pluralism in India, Secularism and its Challenges, Religious Fundamentalism |
| SOG-403 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Population Growth and Structure, Fertility and its Determinants, Mortality and Morbidity, Migration Patterns and Impacts, Population Policies in India |
| SOG-404 | Project/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Formulating Research Proposal, Data Collection and Fieldwork, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation, Presentation of Research Findings |
