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BA in Sociology at Pachhunga University College
Aizawl, Mizoram
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Pachhunga University College Aizawl?
This Sociology program at Pachhunga University College focuses on understanding human society, social behavior, patterns of social relationships, and cultures. It delves into the complexities of social structures and processes within an Indian context, emphasizing critical thinking and research skills. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for social scientists in various sectors across India, providing a robust foundation in classical and contemporary sociological thought.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream seeking entry into social research, policy analysis, public administration, or development work. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding societal issues and contributing to social change. Aspiring civil servants, NGO workers, and academicians will find this specialization particularly beneficial for building a strong theoretical and empirical base in social sciences.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social work, research assistant roles, policy advocacy, human resources, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in NGOs, government bodies, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments. The program fosters analytical skills crucial for success in competitive examinations and further academic pursuits.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with classical sociological theories and core concepts by reading primary texts and engaging in group discussions. Attend guest lectures and workshops on foundational topics to deepen understanding. Utilize online resources like NPTEL and Swayam for supplementary learning.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks by major sociologists (Durkheim, Marx, Weber), NPTEL/Swayam courses on Sociology, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical grounding is essential for analytical roles in research and policy, providing frameworks to interpret social phenomena and prepare for advanced studies or competitive exams.
Develop Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Participate actively in classroom debates, essay writing, and critical reviews of sociological literature. Practice identifying biases, evaluating arguments, and formulating independent perspectives on social issues. Engage in discussions with faculty to refine analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals and reputed news analyses, Critical thinking exercises, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
These skills are highly valued in research, journalism, policy analysis, and any role requiring problem-solving and nuanced understanding of complex social situations, crucial for career advancement in India.
Understand Indian Society through Field Visits- (Semester 1-2)
Organize and participate in local field visits to understand diverse social structures, community organizations, and cultural practices within Mizoram and surrounding regions. Document observations and relate them to theoretical concepts learned in class.
Tools & Resources
Department-organized field trips, Local NGOs and community centers, Field journals
Career Connection
Direct exposure to Indian social realities enhances empathy and provides practical context for theoretical knowledge, making graduates more effective in social work and community development roles, particularly in India.
Intermediate Stage
Master Research Methodology and Data Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Take initiative to learn various research methods (qualitative and quantitative) beyond classroom lectures. Seek opportunities to assist faculty in ongoing research projects. Gain hands-on experience with basic statistical software or qualitative data analysis tools.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R (basic statistical analysis), NVivo (qualitative analysis), Research papers and case studies
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is vital for roles in social research, market research, and program evaluation, which are in high demand across Indian government, NGOs, and corporate sectors.
Engage in Internships with NGOs or Government Agencies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek and complete internships with local or national NGOs, social welfare departments, or research institutions working on social issues. Focus on gaining practical experience in project implementation, data collection, and community engagement.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala), Professional networking events
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial practical exposure, build professional networks, and significantly enhance employability for entry-level positions in social development, CSR, and public service in India.
Participate in Academic Competitions and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Present papers at college or inter-college seminars, participate in essay competitions, and join sociological societies. This helps in developing presentation skills, academic writing, and staying updated on contemporary sociological debates.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, University-level competitions, Professional sociological associations
Career Connection
Such participation builds confidence, hones communication skills, and creates a strong academic profile, beneficial for higher education applications and intellectual leadership roles in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Choose a relevant social issue in India for an in-depth research project or dissertation. Apply learned methodologies, conduct primary or secondary data analysis, and present findings in a well-structured academic report. Seek faculty guidance throughout the process.
Tools & Resources
University library and databases, Research software, Faculty supervisors
Career Connection
A strong research project demonstrates independent thinking and specialized knowledge, making graduates highly competitive for research roles, think tanks, and postgraduate studies, often a requirement for advanced positions in India.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6)
Actively connect with alumni, guest speakers, and professionals in fields like social policy, development, and research through college events, LinkedIn, and professional conferences. Seek mentorship and career advice.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni network events, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and insights into industry trends, which are invaluable for navigating the Indian job market and securing desirable placements.
Prepare for Higher Education or Civil Services- (Semester 6)
Start preparing early for postgraduate entrance exams (e.g., NET, JRF for M.A./Ph.D.) or UPSC Civil Services examinations if aspiring for government roles. Focus on strengthening conceptual understanding and current affairs related to social issues.
Tools & Resources
Coaching classes (if desired), Previous year''''s question papers, Current affairs magazines and newspapers
Career Connection
Early and focused preparation significantly increases chances of success in competitive exams, leading to prestigious academic careers or highly sought-after government positions in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass in any stream from a recognized board
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: Varies with elective choices (approx. 140-148 for Hons program) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and its conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and the Environment |
| SOC-CC-101 | Introduction to Sociology | Core | 6 | Sociology as a Discipline, Basic Concepts, Culture and Socialization, Social Institutions, Social Change |
| SOC-CC-102 | Sociology of India | Core | 6 | Understanding Indian Society, Colonialism and Emergence of Sociology in India, Village, Town and City, Caste and Class, Tribe, Gender and Family |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - 1 (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to another discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics, History), Fundamental concepts, Key theories, Contemporary issues, Basic methodologies, Interdisciplinary perspectives |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-2 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theory of Communication, Language of Communication, Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Listening Skills, Soft Skills |
| SOC-CC-203 | Sociological Theories I | Core | 6 | Classical Sociological Traditions, Auguste Comte and Positivism, Emile Durkheim: Division of Labour, Suicide, Religion, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy |
| SOC-CC-204 | Methods of Sociological Enquiry | Core | 6 | The Logic of Social Enquiry, Formulation of Research Design, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - 2 (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Selected topics from a different discipline, Analytical frameworks, Current debates, Practical applications, Interdisciplinary connections, Research approaches |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-CC-305 | Sociological Theories II | Core | 6 | Symbolic Interactionism, Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Postmodernism and Post-structuralism, Feminist Theories |
| SOC-CC-306 | Social Stratification | Core | 6 | Dimensions of Social Stratification, Theories of Social Stratification, Class, Status, and Power, Poverty and Inequality, Mobility and Reproduction of Inequality, Globalization and Inequality |
| SOC-CC-307 | Political Sociology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, State, Power and Legitimacy, Citizenship and Civil Society, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Democracy and Development in India, Social Movements |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course - 1 | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Data Analysis with Software (e.g., SPSS, R), Technical Writing and Presentation Skills, Research Project Formulation, Digital Literacy, Soft Skills for Workplace, Community Engagement |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - 3 (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Advanced topics in an allied field, Theoretical perspectives, Case studies, Cross-cultural comparisons, Policy implications, Interdisciplinary research |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-CC-408 | Economic Sociology | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Economic Sociology, Markets and Economic Action, Work, Industry and Labour, Consumption and Lifestyles, Globalisation and Development, Poverty and Inequality |
| SOC-CC-409 | Sociology of Kinship | Core | 6 | Basic Concepts of Kinship, Descent, Alliance and Residence, Family and Household, Marriage and Kinship in India, Changing Forms of Kinship, New Reproductive Technologies |
| SOC-CC-410 | Sociology of Religion | Core | 6 | Conceptualizing Religion, Classical Approaches to Religion, Religion and Social Change, Religion and Modernity, Religious Pluralism in India, Fundamentalism and Sectarianism |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course - 2 | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Conflict Resolution and Peace Building, Human Rights and Social Justice Advocacy, Gender Sensitization, Rural Development Practices, Urban Planning and Social Issues, Social Entrepreneurship |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - 4 (From other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Specialized topics in an external discipline, Advanced theories and models, Research frontiers, Policy relevance, Ethical considerations, Global perspectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-CC-511 | Sociology of Development | Core | 6 | Concept and Theories of Development, Development Planning in India, State, Market and Civil Society, Development and Displacement, Sustainable Development, Grassroots Development Initiatives |
| SOC-CC-512 | Urban Sociology | Core | 6 | Urbanization in India and Globally, Urban Structure and Ecology, Urban Problems and Challenges, Urban Governance and Planning, Smart Cities and Sustainable Urbanism, Social Life in Cities |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - 1 (e.g., Sociology of Health) | Elective | 6 | Social dimensions of health and illness, Health care systems, Medical sociology theories, Health inequalities in India, Public health policies, Global Health Issues |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - 2 (e.g., Industrial Sociology) | Elective | 6 | Industrialization and society, Work and organizations, Industrial relations, Impact of technology on work, Labour movements in India, Globalization and Labour |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC-CC-613 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 6 | Sociological Perspectives on Environment, Human-Nature Interactions, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and Society, Environmental Policy and Governance, Sustainable Livelihoods |
| SOC-CC-614 | Gender and Society | Core | 6 | Understanding Gender as a Social Construct, Theories of Gender, Gender and Family, Work, Education, Gender-based Violence, Gender Justice and Women''''s Movements in India, Masculinities and Femininities |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - 3 (e.g., Sociology of Education) | Elective | 6 | Education as a social institution, Theories of education, Education and social inequality, Policy and planning in Indian education, Challenges and reforms in education, Role of Education in Social Mobility |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - 4 (e.g., Rural Sociology) | Elective | 6 | Rural society in India, Agrarian social structure, Rural development programs, Rural poverty and indebtedness, Changing rural landscape, Migration and Rural-Urban Linkages |
