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BA in Sociology at M.P. Mahila Mahavidyalaya
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at M.P. Mahila Mahavidyalaya Gorakhpur?
This Sociology program at M.P. Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Gorakhpur, under the NEP 2020 framework, offers a comprehensive study of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It delves into the dynamics of social change, inequalities, and various social institutions, providing a critical perspective on contemporary Indian society and global challenges. The program aims to cultivate analytical and research skills relevant to diverse social contexts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in understanding societal structures, human interaction, and social issues. It attracts students aspiring for careers in social work, public administration, research, and non-profit organizations. It is also suitable for those looking to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for various government and private sector roles in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths in social work, urban planning, human resources, journalism, civil services, and policy analysis in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential into senior roles in NGOs, government bodies, and research firms. The program aligns with skill sets required for competitive exams and community development initiatives.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental sociological theories, concepts, and terminologies introduced in Semesters 1 and 2. Utilize textbooks, reference books from the college library, and open-source sociological journals available online to build a strong theoretical base. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas and cross-reference different perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College Library resources, NCERT Sociology textbooks, JSTOR (through institutional access), Sociological Abstracts
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is crucial for excelling in higher semesters, competitive exams like UPSC, and any role requiring deep social analysis.
Developing Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, report structuring, and basic research methodologies. Attend workshops on academic writing if available, and practice summarizing sociological articles. Understand how to cite sources correctly to prepare for future project work and dissertations.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), College writing center (if available), Guide to APA/MLA citation styles
Career Connection
Clear communication and research documentation are vital for roles in academia, policy analysis, and any professional environment requiring written reports.
Engaging in Local Community Observations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively observe local social phenomena, cultural practices, and community structures in Gorakhpur. This informal fieldwork can help connect theoretical knowledge with real-world Indian contexts. Maintain a reflective journal to document observations and analyze them through sociological lenses.
Tools & Resources
Observation journal, Local news reports, Community interaction opportunities
Career Connection
Enhances practical understanding of Indian society, beneficial for social work, community development, and ethnographic research roles.
Intermediate Stage
Participating in Social Surveys and Field Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Seek opportunities to participate in social surveys, data collection drives, or small-scale field studies, possibly with local NGOs or college faculty. This hands-on experience in research methods will solidify theoretical learning and expose students to practical challenges of fieldwork in India.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey/Google Forms for data collection, SPSS/Excel for basic data analysis, College department for project opportunities
Career Connection
Develops essential skills for research assistant roles, market research, and program evaluation within the social sector.
Joining Social Awareness and Volunteering Initiatives- (Semester 3-5)
Actively join college clubs focused on social welfare, NSS (National Service Scheme), or local NGOs. Volunteering for causes like education, health, or environmental awareness provides direct exposure to social problems and community engagement, crucial for understanding applied sociology.
Tools & Resources
NSS Unit of the college, Local NGO contacts, Volunteer India platforms
Career Connection
Builds a strong profile for social work, development sector jobs, and demonstrates commitment to social causes.
Attending Seminars and Guest Lectures on Contemporary Issues- (Semester 3-5)
Make an effort to attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the department or university on current social issues, policy changes, and emerging sociological trends in India. This keeps knowledge updated and fosters intellectual curiosity beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
University academic calendar, Departmental notices, Online webinars on platforms like YouTube/Zoom
Career Connection
Expands knowledge base, networking opportunities with experts, and shows proactive learning, valuable for higher studies and policy roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertaking a Comprehensive Research Project/Internship- (Semester 5-6)
Leverage the Semester 5 and 6 project/internship opportunities to conduct in-depth research on a chosen sociological topic relevant to India or gain practical experience in a social organization. This involves designing a project, collecting and analyzing data, and writing a detailed report under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Shodhganga, Google Scholar), Statistical software (R, Python, SPSS), Internship search portals (Internshala, LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Crucial for developing expertise, building a portfolio for postgraduate studies, and securing entry-level research or program management positions.
Preparing for Competitive Exams and Further Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Start dedicated preparation for civil services (UPSC, UPPSC), UGC NET, or entrance exams for Master''''s programs in Sociology. This involves revising core concepts, practicing general knowledge, and staying updated on current affairs, especially those related to social policy in India.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UGC NET study materials, Current affairs magazines (Yojana, Kurukshetra), Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Directly enhances chances of cracking prestigious government jobs or securing admissions in top universities for higher education.
Networking with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Connect with college alumni working in social sector, government, or research fields. Attend career fairs and professional events to understand industry requirements and potential job roles. Informational interviews can provide insights into various career paths in sociology within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association, Career counseling cell
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship leads, and job opportunities through referrals and industry insights, aiding successful career launch.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 from any recognized Board (as per M.P. Mahila Mahavidyalaya website and DDUGU norms)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-101 | Introduction to Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Sociology, Sociology and other Social Sciences, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Association, Social Structure, Status, Role, Norms, Values, Culture and Civilization, Socialization and Social Control |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-201 | Sociology of India | Major Core | 4 | Traditional Indian Social Structure: Varna, Jati, Ashrama, Family, Marriage, Kinship in India, Village and City in India, Religion and Society in India, Social Change in India: Sanskritization, Westernization, Modernization, Challenges of Indian Society |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-301 | Social Research Methods | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Social Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Observation, Interview, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| SCS001 | Social Problems in India | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Concept and Nature of Social Problems, Poverty and Unemployment, Crime and Delinquency, Drug Abuse and Alcoholism, Corruption and Environmental Problems, Social Movements and Policies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-401 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Positivism and Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Postmodernism, Feminist Perspectives |
| SCS002 | Applied Sociology | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Meaning and Scope of Applied Sociology, Social Planning and Development, Social Impact Assessment, Role of Sociologists in Policy Making, Action Research, Case Studies in Applied Sociology |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-501 | Indian Sociological Thinkers | Major Core | 4 | G.S. Ghurye, Radhakamal Mukherjee, M.N. Srinivas, Andre Beteille, Irawati Karve, D.P. Mukerji |
| SOC-502 | Political Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Political Sociology, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, State and Civil Society, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Democracy and Bureaucracy, Social Movements and Political Change |
| SOC-DSE-1A | Industrial Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Industry and Society, Work and Organization, Industrial Relations, Trade Unions, Globalization and Labour, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| SOC-DSE-1B | Gender Studies | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Concept of Gender, Patriarchy and Feminism, Gender and Development, Gender Roles and Socialization, Gender and Violence, Women''''s Movements in India |
| SOC-503 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 6 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-601 | Contemporary Sociological Theories | Major Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theory (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenology (Schutz, Garfinkel), Critical Theory (Habermas), Post-Structuralism (Foucault, Derrida) |
| SOC-602 | Sociology of Religion | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Functions of Religion, Theories of Religion (Durkheim, Weber, Marx), Religion and Social Change, Religious Pluralism in India, Sect, Cult and Church, Secularism and Modernity |
| SOC-DSE-2A | Sociology of Health | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Sociological Perspectives on Health and Illness, Social Determinants of Health, Health Care Systems in India, Medical Profession and Patient Role, Public Health and Epidemiology, Health Movements |
| SOC-DSE-2B | Criminology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Nature and Scope of Criminology, Theories of Crime, Types of Crime: White-Collar, Cyber Crime, Criminal Justice System in India, Punishment and Rehabilitation, Victimology |
| SOC-603 | Research Project / Internship | Project | 6 | Advanced Research Methodology, Ethical Considerations in Research, Fieldwork Experience, Internship Report Writing, Application of Sociological Knowledge, Career Exploration in Social Sector |
