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B-A in Sociology at Om Mahavidyalaya
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Om Mahavidyalaya Prayagraj?
This Sociology program at Om Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Prof. Rajendra Singh University, focuses on understanding human society, social behavior, and the intricate patterns of social relationships and cultures, with a strong emphasis on the diverse Indian context. It equips students with a critical lens to analyze contemporary societal issues, explore social change, and understand development processes. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical thinking, preparing graduates for impactful roles in social research, development, and public policy formulation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in human society, social justice, and cultural studies, seeking entry into development sectors, NGOs, or public administration across India. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding and contributing to social change, who may wish to pursue postgraduate studies in sociology, social work, public policy, or related fields. The program encourages students from diverse academic backgrounds, with no specific prerequisite beyond 10+2, welcoming intellectually curious minds.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue dynamic career paths in social research, journalism, civil services, human resources, and the burgeoning non-governmental organization sector throughout India. Entry-level salaries for sociology graduates typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals and those in specialized roles earning significantly higher. The critical thinking, research, and analytical skills developed are highly valued, leading to robust growth trajectories in various public and private organizations contributing to societal welfare and understanding, including opportunities in academic research and teaching.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental sociological concepts, theories, and perspectives introduced in the initial semesters. Actively participate in classroom discussions, read prescribed texts diligently, and use online academic resources and peer study groups to clarify doubts and deepen comprehension. This robust conceptual foundation is critical for advanced sociological analysis.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Standard sociology textbooks by Indian and international authors (e.g., Haralambos & Holborn, T. B. Bottomore), Online academic platforms (JSTOR, Google Scholar for foundational articles), University library resources
Career Connection
A strong grasp of core concepts is indispensable for success in competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services, and for effectively analyzing complex social issues in future roles within research, development, or public administration. It also provides a solid base for postgraduate studies.
Enhance Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and academically sound writing skills from the outset. Practice structuring arguments logically, citing sources correctly, and summarizing complex sociological ideas. Actively seek constructive feedback on assignments from professors and work consistently on improving both written and oral presentation abilities for academic and professional communication.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly (for grammar and style checking), Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) for academic writing guidelines and citation styles, University library workshops on research paper writing, Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Effective communication and academic integrity are vital for any professional role. Strong writing and presentation skills are highly valued in academia, journalism, content creation, social policy analysis, and NGO work, making your contributions credible and impactful.
Engage with Contemporary Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond theoretical learning, actively follow current events and major social issues pertinent to India through reputable news sources, documentaries, and academic discussions. Make an effort to connect classroom concepts with real-world scenarios to develop a nuanced understanding and a critical perspective on Indian society. Participate in college debates or social awareness clubs.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Frontline magazine, Down To Earth magazine, Public policy podcasts and documentaries on Indian social issues, Sociology department seminars
Career Connection
This practice builds critical awareness and contextual knowledge, which are indispensable for roles in social work, journalism, policy advocacy, civil services, and corporate social responsibility. It enables you to contribute meaningfully to addressing societal challenges in the Indian context.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects and Field Immersion- (Semester 3-4)
Proactively seek opportunities to conduct small-scale research projects, even if not formally part of every course. Participate actively in department-organized field visits to local communities, NGOs, or social institutions to gain practical exposure to sociological concepts, research methods, and community dynamics. Engage in structured interviews with local stakeholders to gather firsthand data.
Tools & Resources
Basic qualitative research guides, Interview recording apps (with consent), Permission letters from the college for field visits, Guidance from faculty mentors on research design
Career Connection
Practical research experience and direct field exposure are highly valued by employers in NGOs, research organizations, and development agencies. It demonstrates initiative, an applied understanding of social realities, and enhances your problem-solving capabilities.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-5)
Actively attend guest lectures, workshops, and seminars organized by the college, university, or other institutions focusing on sociology and related fields. Make a conscious effort to connect with alumni working in diverse sectors (e.g., civil services, NGOs, academia) to understand various career paths and seek mentorship. Join relevant online professional groups for social scientists.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, College alumni network portals or events, University career counseling events and job fairs, Professional associations for social scientists (e.g., Indian Sociological Society events)
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for uncovering valuable internship opportunities, job leads, and gaining practical insights into specific career trajectories. Mentors can provide invaluable guidance, support, and open doors for your professional journey in the Indian context.
Develop Basic Data Analysis and Digital Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Familiarize yourself with basic data organization and analysis tools relevant to social sciences. Even for qualitative research, understanding basic data management is key. Enhance your digital literacy, including efficient use of productivity software (like MS Office/Google Suite) and online collaboration tools. Consider an introductory course in statistical software if pursuing quantitative research.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Excel for basic data organization and descriptive statistics, Online tutorials for introductory qualitative data analysis techniques (e.g., thematic analysis), Online courses on digital literacy and productivity software, University computer labs
Career Connection
These skills are increasingly demanded in research, policy analysis, and any role requiring the interpretation of social trends and data. Digital proficiency significantly boosts employability across various sectors in India''''s evolving job market, making you a more versatile candidate.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Specialization and Dissertation Excellence- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully choose your Discipline Specific Electives in Semester 5 and 6, aligning them strategically with your postgraduate ambitions or career interests. Dedicate significant effort to your final year project or dissertation, viewing it as a capstone experience. This is your prime opportunity to apply all learned methodologies and theories to a specific sociological problem, showcasing your independent research capability.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic databases (e.g., Shodhganga for Indian research, J-STOR, EBSCO host), Statistical software for social sciences (e.g., R, SPSS introduction if applicable), University research ethics guidelines, Intensive guidance from your assigned supervisor
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation or project showcases your expertise, research capability, and critical thinking, making you a highly competitive candidate for advanced studies (MA/PhD) or specialized research roles in prominent Indian institutions. It serves as a powerful portfolio piece for future endeavors.
Proactive Preparation for Post-Graduation and Career Entry- (Semester 5-6)
Actively prepare for competitive examinations (like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs) or entrance tests for postgraduate degrees (MA Sociology, MSW) if that''''s your path. Attend workshops on interview skills, resume building, and group discussions organized by the college''''s career cell. Explore volunteer or short-term project opportunities in relevant NGOs to gain practical pre-placement experience.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC coaching materials and previous year papers, University career services for resume review, mock interviews, and placement assistance, NGO directories for volunteering opportunities, LinkedIn and other job portals for targeted job searches
Career Connection
Proactive and strategic preparation for further studies or the job market directly translates into successful admissions to prestigious programs or placements in desired organizations. Practical experience gained enhances your resume and makes you a more attractive and competitive applicant.
Cultivate Leadership and Collaborative Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Take on leadership roles in college clubs, student committees, or academic initiatives. Actively participate in organizing departmental events, seminars, or community outreach programs. These experiences are invaluable for fostering teamwork, communication, problem-solving abilities, and delegation skills, which are highly sought after in any professional environment, particularly in leadership roles within NGOs, government, or human resource departments.
Tools & Resources
Student leadership programs and workshops, College event management committees, Project management tools for group assignments, Mentorship from senior students, faculty, or external professionals
Career Connection
Leadership and teamwork are critical soft skills that contribute significantly to career advancement in any sector. Demonstrating these abilities makes you a more effective and impactful professional, capable of leading teams and driving initiatives, which is crucial for managerial or project coordination roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) in any stream from a recognized board, as per the admission norms of Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) University, Prayagraj.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Varies (typically 120-140 credits for a 3-year NEP BA program) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (as per general NEP university guidelines for continuous internal assessment), External: 75% (as per general NEP university guidelines for semester-end examinations)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-01 | Introduction to Sociology | Core (Major) | 4 | Sociology: Meaning, Nature, Scope and Perspectives, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Association, Institution, Social Structure, Status and Role, Culture, Norms and Values, Socialization and Social Control, Types of Societies: Tribal, Agrarian, Industrial |
| AEC-01 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Course | 2 | Basics of Environment and Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Management, Natural Resources: Renewable and Non-renewable, Climate Change and Sustainable Development |
| VOC-01 | Vocational Course (Generic Placeholder) | Vocational | 2 | Foundational skills relevant to chosen vocational stream, Practical application and basic knowledge, Industry overview and career opportunities, Entrepreneurial thinking and skill development, Workplace ethics and professional conduct |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-02 | Society in India | Core (Major) | 4 | Basic Features of Indian Society, Social Institutions: Caste, Class, Tribe, Family, Marriage, Religious Minorities and their Challenges, Rural and Urban India, Unity and Diversity in Indian Society |
| CC-01 | Co-curricular Course (Generic Placeholder) | Co-curricular | 2 | Personal and Professional Ethics, Digital Literacy and Cyber Security Awareness, Health and Wellness, Yoga and Physical Education, Disaster Management and Preparedness, Indian Constitution and Human Rights |
| SEC-01 | Skill Enhancement Course (Generic Placeholder) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Communication Skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing), Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking, Basic Computer Applications and Data Handling, Quantitative Aptitude and Data Interpretation, Career Planning and Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-03 | Sociological Thinkers | Core (Major) | 4 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labor, Suicide, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Georg Simmel: Social Forms, Metropolis and Mental Life |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-04 | Social Research Methods | Core (Major) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Research, Research Design: Exploratory, Descriptive, Explanatory, Methods of Data Collection: Survey, Observation, Interview, Case Study, Sampling Techniques: Probability and Non-Probability, Data Analysis: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches, Report Writing |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-05 | Classical Sociological Traditions | Core (Major) | 4 | Early Sociological Thought and Enlightenment, Functionalism: Parsons and Merton, Conflict Perspective: Dahrendorf and Coser, Symbolic Interactionism: Mead and Blumer, Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology |
| DSE-S01 | Discipline Specific Elective 1 (e.g., Rural Sociology) | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Rural Society: Characteristics and Changes, Agrarian Structure and Land Reforms, Rural Development Programs in India, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Governance, Migration, Poverty, and Social Mobility in Rural Areas |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S-06 | Contemporary Sociological Theories / Social Problems in India | Core (Major) | 4 | Postmodernism and Post-structuralism, Feminist Theories: Patriarchy, Gender and Society, Environmental Sociology and Green Movements, Sociology of Globalization and Development, Social Problems: Poverty, Inequality, Crime, Youth Unrest, Terrorism |
| DSE-S02 | Discipline Specific Elective 2 (e.g., Sociology of Health) | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 4 | Health and Illness as Social Constructs, Healthcare Systems in India: Challenges and Reforms, Social Epidemiology and Public Health Issues, Health Policy and Planning, Role of NGOs in Health, Traditional Healing Practices and Medical Pluralism |
| PROJ-S01 | Project / Dissertation | Project | 4 | Identification of Research Problem and Objectives, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology: Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Presentation of Findings and Discussion, Ethical Considerations and Report Writing |
