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MA in Sociology at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Maharaja Purna Chandra (Autonomous) College Mayurbhanj?
This MA Sociology program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and cultural dynamics. It critically analyzes contemporary social issues within the Indian context, preparing students for impactful roles in research, policy, and community development. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical research methodologies crucial for addressing India''''s diverse social landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities graduates with a keen interest in social justice, cultural studies, and empirical research. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into social research, non-profit organizations, or public policy roles. Professionals working in social services, journalism, or education looking to deepen their analytical skills and understanding of societal forces will also find this program highly beneficial for career advancement.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social researcher, policy analyst, community development officer, and academician. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA in NGOs, government agencies, and research firms. The program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills, aligning with the growing demand for social scientists in India''''s development sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly understand classical and contemporary sociological theories (Functionalism, Conflict, Interpretive) by reading original texts and engaging in critical discussions. Form study groups to dissect complex concepts and apply them to Indian societal phenomena.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks, Standard sociology reference books (Haralambos & Holborn, Giddens), JSTOR for academic papers, College library resources
Career Connection
Strong theoretical grounding is essential for analytical roles in research, policy formulation, and journalism, providing the conceptual lens to interpret social issues effectively.
Develop Core Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in methodology workshops. Practice designing research questions, conducting basic literature reviews, and learning qualitative (interviews, observation) and quantitative (surveys) data collection techniques through small group projects or field visits.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic data analysis (free online courses), Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Local community organizations for practical exposure, Research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
These skills are directly transferable to roles in social research, data analysis, monitoring & evaluation in NGOs, and market research firms, making graduates highly employable.
Engage with Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, read extensively on current events, policy debates, and historical social movements in India. Join college clubs focused on social awareness or volunteer for local NGOs to gain firsthand exposure to diverse social challenges and grassroots initiatives.
Tools & Resources
Leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Government reports (NITI Aayog, Census of India), Academic journals on Indian sociology, Local NGOs in Mayurbhanj
Career Connection
Deep contextual understanding of India''''s social landscape is crucial for roles in public administration, social work, and development, enabling effective problem-solving and policy advocacy.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Dissertation Prep- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives that align with your career interests (e.g., Medical Sociology for public health, Industrial Sociology for HR/corporate social responsibility). Begin early preparation for your dissertation, identifying a compelling research topic and refining your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Previous dissertations from the department, Online research databases, Advanced statistical software for analysis
Career Connection
Specialization enhances niche expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for specific roles. A well-executed dissertation showcases independent research capability, a key requirement for research and academic positions.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, seminars, and conferences related to sociology and social development. Connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in the field through platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in departmental events or college-level interdisciplinary discussions.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional sociological associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society), College career services, Alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for internships, job referrals, and staying updated on industry trends. Strong connections can open doors to opportunities not advertised publicly.
Develop Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research findings or participate in debates and public speaking events. Focus on articulating complex sociological ideas clearly and concisely, both in written reports and oral presentations.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters (if available), College debating societies, Practice presenting to peers and faculty, Online courses on public speaking and academic writing
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are essential for all professional roles, especially in research, policy advocacy, teaching, and consultancy, enabling you to convey insights effectively to diverse audiences.
Advanced Stage
Execute and Refine Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to fieldwork, data analysis, and the rigorous writing of your dissertation (Part II). Ensure methodological soundness and originality. Seek continuous feedback from your supervisor and incorporate revisions diligently.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software, Academic writing guides, Plagiarism checkers, Access to peer-reviewed literature
Career Connection
The dissertation is a capstone project demonstrating your ability to conduct independent, scholarly research, directly enhancing prospects for research positions, PhD admissions, and analytical roles.
Prepare for Placements and Further Studies- (Semester 4)
Research potential employers (NGOs, government, research institutions, academia) or PhD programs. Tailor your resume/CV and cover letters. Practice interview skills, focusing on articulating your sociological insights and research experience.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Career counseling services, Online job portals (Naukri.com, Indeed), Mock interviews
Career Connection
Proactive placement preparation ensures a smooth transition from academics to professional life or higher education, maximizing your chances of securing desired opportunities.
Cultivate Ethical and Responsible Practice- (Semester 4)
Internalize and apply ethical guidelines in all research and professional interactions, particularly when dealing with sensitive social issues and vulnerable populations. Understand the societal impact of your work and strive for responsible scholarship.
Tools & Resources
Institutional review board (IRB) guidelines, Ethical research manuals, Discussions on professional conduct
Career Connection
Ethical conduct is paramount in all social science careers, building trust and credibility. It is a non-negotiable trait for roles involving community engagement, policy recommendations, and academic integrity.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor Degree in any discipline with 45% marks in aggregate or 50% in Honours/Major Elective/Core subject (Based on 2023-24 admission notification)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 74 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-101 | THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES IN SOCIOLOGY | Core | 4 | Emergence of Sociology, Functionalism, Conflict Perspective, Interpretive Perspective, Post Modernism |
| SOC-102 | METHODS OF SOCIOLOGICAL RESEARCH | Core | 4 | Scientific Methods, Research Design, Techniques of Data Collection (I), Techniques of Data Collection (II), Data Analysis |
| SOC-103 | SOCIOLOGY OF INDIA | Core | 4 | Approaches to Indian Society, Social Institutions, Social Stratification, Social Change, Challenges of Indian Society |
| SOC-104 | INDIAN SOCIOLOGICAL TRADITIONS | Core | 4 | Early Indian Thinkers, Mahatma Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Srinivas, G.S. Ghurye, D.P. Mukherjee, Ramkrishna Mukherjee |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-201 | SOCIOLOGY OF DEVELOPMENT | Core | 4 | Concepts of Development, Theories of Development, Dimensions of Development, Development Strategies, Globalisation & Development |
| SOC-202 | POPULATION AND SOCIETY | Core | 4 | Demography & Population Studies, Theories of Population, Population Characteristics, Population Policy, Population and Environment |
| SOC-203 | RURAL AND URBAN SOCIOLOGY | Core | 4 | Rural Sociology, Agrarian Structure, Urban Sociology, Urbanisation, Urban Problems |
| SOC-204 | SOCIOLOGY OF GENDER | Core | 4 | Understanding Gender, Gender & Society, Gender & Development, Gender & Work, Gender Movements |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-301 | SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY | Core | 4 | Social Psychology, Social Perception, Social Interaction, Group Dynamics, Attitudes and Behavior |
| SOC-302 | SOCIOLOGY OF KNOWLEDGE | Core | 4 | Sociology of Knowledge, Ideology, Science and Technology, Education, Communication and Media |
| SOC-303 | DISSERTATION (Part-I) | Project/Dissertation | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Research Design, Data Collection Plan, Preliminary Report Writing |
| SOC-304 | Elective - I (Any one of the following) | Elective | 4 | SOCIAL DEMOGRAPHY (Demographic Concepts, Sources, Theories, Population Dynamics, Mortality & Fertility), MEDICAL SOCIOLOGY (Concept of Health & Illness, Sociology of Medicine, Health Care System, Traditional Systems, Health & Development), INDUSTRIAL SOCIOLOGY (Industrialisation & Society, Theories, Industrial Relations, Work & Organisation, Globalisation & Industry) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-401 | ENVIRONMENT & SOCIETY | Core | 4 | Environment & Sociology, Environmental Problems, Environmental Movements, Environmental Policy, Sustainable Development |
| SOC-402 | APPLIED SOCIOLOGY | Core | 4 | Applied Sociology, Social Problems, Social Action, Policy Planning, NGOs & Development |
| SOC-403 | DISSERTATION (Part-II) | Project/Dissertation | 6 | Data Analysis, Interpretation of Findings, Report Writing, Presentation, Viva-Voce |
| SOC-404 | Elective - II (Any one of the following) | Elective | 4 | SOCIOLOGY OF TRIBAL SOCIETY (Tribal Society, Economy, Culture, Problems, Development), SOCIAL MOVEMENTS (Social Movements, Theories, Types, Movements in India, Role of Media), DALIT STUDIES (Dalit Identity, Movements, Literature, Politics, Challenges) |
