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M-A 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 M.A. Sociology program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of societal structures, dynamics, and research methodologies. It emphasizes theoretical foundations, empirical research, and contemporary social issues relevant to India. This program prepares students for academic pursuits, research, and diverse roles in social development, policy analysis, and community engagement sectors across the country.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Sociology or other humanities disciplines, seeking a comprehensive master''''s education. It also suits individuals passionate about social justice, policy analysis, and community development. Aspiring academics, social workers, and those keen on understanding complex Indian social realities will find this program highly beneficial for their intellectual and professional growth.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as social researchers, policy analysts, community development officers, NGO professionals, or educators in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with significant growth potential based on experience and expertise. The program equips students with critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, opening avenues in government, non-profits, corporate social responsibility, and academia.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a deep understanding of classical and contemporary sociological thinkers like Durkheim, Marx, and Weber in Semesters 1 and 2. Actively participate in class discussions, form study groups, and explore supplementary readings from academic journals. This foundational knowledge is crucial for building strong analytical skills essential for advanced studies and research careers.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (JSTOR, JGate), NPTEL courses on Sociology, Study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base enhances critical thinking, vital for research, policy analysis, and understanding complex social problems in any professional role.
Develop Research Methodological Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Concentrate on courses covering Research Methods and Social Statistics in the initial semesters. Actively practice data collection techniques through small informal surveys or interviews within the college community or local areas. Utilize online tutorials and practical assignments to strengthen your grasp of quantitative and qualitative research methods. This foundation is critical for future dissertations and analytical roles.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for data analysis practice, NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, Conducting mini-surveys
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in social research, market analysis, and policy evaluation roles, directly impacting job prospects.
Engage with Indian Societal Context- (Semester 1-2)
Actively relate sociological concepts and theories to contemporary Indian social issues. Make it a habit to read reputable newspapers, watch documentaries on social problems, and attend public lectures or seminars focused on Indian society and its challenges. This contextual understanding enhances critical analysis and relevance, particularly for careers in social development and public service in India.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Documentaries on Indian social issues, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Understanding the Indian context is paramount for roles in government, NGOs, and CSR, where local relevance and problem-solving are key.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate and Refine Dissertation Project- (Semester 3)
Proactively begin working on the Dissertation/Project Work (SOC-C-303) early in Semester 3. Identify a clear research interest, refine your topic, and start an extensive literature review. Seek regular mentorship from faculty members and utilize online academic databases like JSTOR or Shodhganga for relevant studies. This hands-on experience refines research skills and prepares you for advanced academic and professional work.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, JSTOR, Shodhganga, Google Scholar, Reference management software (Mendeley)
Career Connection
Successful completion of a dissertation showcases independent research capability, a crucial skill for academic, research, and advanced analytical positions.
Deepen Elective Specialization- (Semester 3)
Thoroughly explore your chosen open elective (e.g., Sociology of Health or Political Sociology) in Semester 3. Attend workshops, guest lectures, or relevant online courses to gain specialized knowledge beyond the curriculum. Network with professionals in that specific field to understand real-world applications and career opportunities. This early specialization helps clarify career interests and build specific expertise.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (Coursera, edX), Guest lectures, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge in a chosen area can differentiate candidates, leading to targeted opportunities in NGOs, policy think tanks, or health/political sectors.
Participate in Academic Presentations- (Semester 3)
Actively present findings from your assignments, term papers, or initial research ideas in seminars, departmental events, or inter-college competitions during Semester 3. Practice public speaking, learn to articulate your arguments clearly, and confidently defend your positions. Utilize presentation tools effectively. This builds confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills vital for academic and professional success.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint/Google Slides, Departmental seminar series, Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Strong presentation and communication skills are essential for roles requiring public engagement, advocacy, teaching, or leadership.
Advanced Stage
Maximize Internship/Fieldwork Experience- (Semester 4)
Approach the Internship/Field Work (SOC-C-403) in Semester 4 with a strong career-oriented mindset. Select organizations that align with your professional goals, actively engage in field activities, and seek mentorship from supervisors. Document your experiences thoroughly and reflect on practical applications of your sociological knowledge. This practical exposure is crucial for understanding real-world challenges and building a professional network.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals, Professional diary/logbook, Mentors in host organizations
Career Connection
A meaningful internship or fieldwork experience provides practical skills, industry contacts, and often leads directly to job offers or valuable references.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 4)
Actively network during Semester 4 by attending departmental events, alumni meets, and connecting with faculty for career advice and potential opportunities. Utilize professional platforms like LinkedIn to connect with sociologists, researchers, NGO workers, and policymakers. These connections can be invaluable for gaining insights, finding job openings, and securing mentorship in your chosen field.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Departmental career fair
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to hidden job markets, mentorship, and helps in gaining insights into specific industry demands and career paths.
Prepare for Specific Career Pathways- (Semester 4)
During Semester 4, identify your specific career aspirations (e.g., academic, NGO, government, CSR) and tailor your resume/CV and cover letters accordingly. Practice interview skills, participate in mock interviews, and thoroughly research potential employers and their work culture. Utilize the college''''s career services or placement cell resources for guidance. This proactive approach ensures a smooth transition from academics to the professional world.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online interview practice platforms, Career counseling
Career Connection
Targeted career preparation increases job readiness, interview success rates, and overall job placement in desired sectors post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation with Sociology as a major/elective subject or any graduation degree with 50% marks in aggregate from any recognized university.
Duration: 4 Semesters / 2 years
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (for theory), 40% (for practicals), External: 80% (for theory), 60% (for practicals)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-101 | Classical Sociological Tradition-I | Core | 6 | Emergence of Sociology, Enlightenment and Counter-Enlightenment, Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Herbert Spencer: Evolutionism, Organic Analogy, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Religion |
| SOC-C-102 | Research Methods and Social Statistics-I | Core | 6 | Social Research: Meaning, Types, Significance, Scientific Method in Social Research, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Experimental, Data Collection Methods: Observation, Interview, Questionnaire, Sampling: Types and Techniques |
| SOC-C-103 | Sociology of Development | Core | 6 | Concept and Indicators of Development, Theories of Development: Modernization, Dependency, World Systems, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Social Exclusion and Inclusive Development, Micro-credit and Women''''s Empowerment |
| SOC-C-104 | Indian Society: Structure and Change | Core | 6 | Indian Sociological Traditions: G.S. Ghurye, M.N. Srinivas, Caste System: Origin, Features, Changes, Tribe: Classification, Issues, Integration, Family and Kinship: Types, Transformations, Religion and Society in India, Processes of Social Change: Sanskritization, Westernization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-201 | Classical Sociological Tradition-II | Core | 6 | Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class, Alienation, Revolution, Max Weber: Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Georg Simmel: Forms of Interaction, Metropolis and Mental Life, Structuralism: Levi-Strauss, Phenomenology: Alfred Schutz |
| SOC-C-202 | Research Methods and Social Statistics-II | Core | 6 | Data Processing: Editing, Coding, Tabulation, Data Analysis: Interpretation, Report Writing, Hypothesis Testing: Null and Alternative Hypotheses, Measures of Central Tendency: Mean, Median, Mode, Measures of Dispersion: Range, Variance, Standard Deviation, Correlation and Regression Analysis |
| SOC-C-203 | Social Stratification | Core | 6 | Theories of Social Stratification: Functionalist, Conflict, Weberian, Caste: Features, Changes, Debates, Class: Dimensions, Class Conflict, New Middle Class, Gender and Inequality: Patriarchy, Gender Roles, Race and Ethnicity: Concepts, Discrimination, Social Mobility: Types, Factors |
| SOC-C-204 | Rural Sociology | Core | 6 | Rural Society in India: Characteristics, Agrarian Structure, Land Reforms and their Impact, Rural Development Programs: IRDP, MGNREGA, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functioning, Rural Urban Continuum, Green Revolution: Social Consequences |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-301 | Sociological Theories-Contemporary | Core | 6 | Structural Functionalism: Parsons, Merton, Conflict Theories: Ralf Dahrendorf, Randall Collins, Symbolic Interactionism: Mead, Blumer, Goffman, Ethnomethodology: Garfinkel, Postmodernism and Post-structuralism: Foucault, Derrida |
| SOC-C-302 | Gender and Society | Core | 6 | Gender as a Social Construct, Sex vs. Gender, Patriarchy and Matriarchy, Feminist Theories: Liberal, Radical, Marxist, Postmodern, Gender Roles and Socialization, Violence Against Women: Domestic Violence, Sexual Harassment, Women''''s Movements in India |
| SOC-E-301 | Sociology of Health (Open Elective Option 1) | Elective | 6 | Health, Illness and Society: Social Construction of Health, Medical Pluralism in India: Ayurveda, Unani, Homeopathy, Social Epidemiology: Health Disparities, Social Determinants of Health, Health Care System in India: Public and Private, Health Movements and NGOs in Health Sector, Role of International Organizations in Health |
| SOC-E-302 | Political Sociology (Open Elective Option 2) | Elective | 6 | State, Power and Authority: Concepts and Theories, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Electoral Politics in India: Parties, Voting Behavior, Social Movements: Types, Theories, New Social Movements, Governance and Development: Decentralization, Good Governance, Civil Society and Democracy |
| SOC-C-303 | Dissertation/ Project Work | Project | 6 | Research Topic Selection and Formulation, Extensive Literature Review, Developing Research Questions and Hypotheses, Methodology: Data Collection, Analysis Techniques, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-C-401 | Sociology of Culture | Core | 6 | Culture and Society: Definitions, Components, Functions, Cultural Diversity and Pluralism, Popular Culture and Mass Media, Globalization and Culture: Homogenization, Hybridization, Cultural Change: Innovation, Diffusion, Acculturation, Cultural Policy in India |
| SOC-C-402 | Urban Sociology | Core | 6 | Urbanization in India: Trends, Patterns, Characteristics, Urban Social Structure: Class, Caste, Ethnicity in Cities, Urban Problems: Slums, Crime, Environmental Degradation, Urban Governance and Planning, Smart Cities Mission: Opportunities and Challenges, Theories of Urbanization: Chicago School, Castells |
| SOC-E-401 | Industrial Sociology (Discipline Specific Elective Option 1) | Elective | 6 | Industrialization and Society: Perspectives, Industrial Relations: Trade Unions, Management, Labor Movements in India, Work Organization and Division of Labour, Globalization and Industry: Impact on Labor, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) |
| SOC-E-402 | Social Demography (Discipline Specific Elective Option 2) | Elective | 6 | Demography: Concepts, Scope, Sources of Data, Population Theories: Malthus, Demographic Transition, Fertility: Determinants, Trends in India, Mortality: Measures, Causes, Infant Mortality, Migration: Types, Causes, Consequences, Population Policy in India |
| SOC-C-403 | Internship/ Field Work | Project | 6 | Application of Research Methods in Field Settings, Data Collection through Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Community Engagement and Intervention, Report Preparation based on Field Observations, Presentation of Field Work Findings, Ethical Practices in Field Research |
