

BA in Sociology at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Rajkiya Mahavidyalaya, Palhipatti, Varanasi


Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Rajkiya Mahavidyalaya, Palhipatti, Varanasi Varanasi?
This Sociology program at Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Rajkiya Mahavidyalaya, Varanasi, focuses on understanding social structures, processes, and change. With a strong emphasis on Indian society, it delves into diverse social issues, institutions, and theoretical perspectives relevant to the country''''s unique cultural fabric, preparing students for analytical roles in the public and social sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into social research, policy analysis, or community development. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding societal dynamics, those aspiring for civil services, or professionals looking to upskill in areas of social impact and governance within the Indian context, contributing to societal well-being.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in NGOs, government agencies, corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments, and media houses in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 6-10 LPA in social sector roles, policy research, or academia, fostering significant societal impact.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Sociological Concepts through Local Observation- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a deep understanding of core sociological concepts (e.g., community, social stratification, culture) by observing local social phenomena in Varanasi. Relate textbook theories to real-life situations like local festivals, markets, or family structures, enhancing practical comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Field observation journals, Local news articles, Documentaries on Indian society, Discussions with local community leaders
Career Connection
Enhances analytical skills crucial for social research, field work, and policy formulation, preparing for roles in NGOs or government research and development initiatives.
Build Strong Academic Writing & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise academic writing and basic research skills. Regularly practice essay writing, literature reviews, and critical analysis of sociological texts. Utilize library resources for initial exploration and foundational understanding of research methodologies.
Tools & Resources
College library, Online academic databases (e.g., Google Scholar for basic searches), Reference management tools (e.g., Zotero for personal use), Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Essential for higher studies (MA, PhD), report writing in NGOs, policy briefs, and research assistant roles, providing a strong academic foundation.
Participate in Debates and Discussions on Social Issues- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in classroom debates and join college clubs focused on current affairs or social issues. Articulate your sociological perspectives on contemporary Indian challenges, fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and persuasive communication abilities.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Departmental seminars, Online forums for social discussions, Newspapers and current affairs magazines (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
Improves public speaking, persuasive communication, and critical analysis, which are valuable for advocacy, journalism, civil services interviews, and community leadership roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects & Surveys- (Semester 3-4)
Apply sociological research methods learned in class by conducting small-scale surveys or qualitative studies on topics relevant to Varanasi (e.g., youth aspirations, impact of tourism). Learn data collection and basic analysis, bridging theory with practical application.
Tools & Resources
Questionnaire design tools, Interview guides, Basic data tabulation in Excel, Ethical guidelines for social research
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills highly sought after in market research, policy evaluation, and social impact assessment roles in India, enhancing employability.
Seek Internships with Local NGOs or Government Bodies- (Semester 4-5)
Actively search for short-term internships (1-2 months) with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or community development projects. Gain hands-on experience in fieldwork, program implementation, and understanding grassroots realities in India.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct contact with local organizations
Career Connection
Provides crucial practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a strong resume builder for future employment in the social sector or public administration, boosting career prospects.
Develop Data Interpretation and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Learn to interpret sociological data, both quantitative and qualitative, and present findings effectively. Practice creating compelling presentations and reports using visual aids to convey complex social information clearly and persuasively.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides, Basic data visualization tools (charts/graphs in Excel), Public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Essential for roles in research, consultancy, policy advocacy, and any position requiring data-driven decision-making and communication, critical for professional success.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Capstone Project or Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Conduct an in-depth research project or dissertation on a chosen sociological topic relevant to contemporary India, demonstrating advanced analytical and research capabilities. This can involve extensive fieldwork or secondary data analysis, showcasing independent scholarship.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Faculty mentors, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS/R for basic analysis, if applicable), Academic writing guides for dissertations
Career Connection
Showcases specialized knowledge and independent research ability, highly valued for postgraduate studies, research positions, and thought leadership roles in academia and industry.
Prepare for Higher Education and Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for postgraduate entrance exams (e.g., MA Sociology, UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs) or job interviews. Review core concepts, practice mock tests, and develop strategies for success in India''''s competitive landscape.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year''''s question papers, Career counseling sessions at college
Career Connection
Direct pathway to prestigious careers in academia, civil services, or specialized research roles, offering significant career growth and opportunities for public service.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 5-6)
Attend webinars, seminars, and workshops organized by sociological associations or professional bodies. Connect with alumni working in relevant fields (NGOs, government, academia) to gain insights and explore career opportunities in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni networks, Professional sociological associations in India (e.g., Indian Sociological Society), Career fairs
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job referrals, significantly enhancing placement prospects and professional development within the social sector and beyond.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters (Undergraduate Degree)
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC101 | Introduction to Basic Concepts of Sociology (समाजशास्त्र के आधारभूत अवधारणाओं का परिचय) | Major/Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Association, Institution, Social Structure, Socialization, Culture, Norms, Values, Social Groups: Primary, Secondary, In-group, Out-group, Status and Role, Role conflict, Role set |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC102 | Sociology of Indian Society (भारतीय समाजशास्त्र) | Major/Core | 4 | Characteristics of Indian Society: Unity in diversity, Pluralism, Social Institutions: Caste System, Varna, Jajmani System, Marriage, Family, Kinship in India, Rural and Urban Sociology in India, Social Change in India: Sanskritization, Westernization, Modernization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC201 | Research Methods in Sociology (समाजशास्त्र में अनुसंधान प्रणालियाँ) | Major/Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Social Research, Types of Research: Descriptive, Exploratory, Experimental, Methods of Data Collection: Observation, Interview, Questionnaire, Schedule, Sampling: Types and Techniques, Hypothesis: Formation and Testing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC202 | Sociological Thinkers (समाजशास्त्रीय विचारक) | Major/Core | 4 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Karl Marx: Class Conflict, Historical Materialism, Alienation, Herbert Spencer: Social Evolution, Organic Analogy |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC301 | Social Problems of India (भारत की सामाजिक समस्याएँ) | Major/Core (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Concept and Causes of Social Problems, Poverty and Unemployment, Child Labor, Casteism, Communalism, Regionalism, Corruption, White-Collar Crime, Drug Abuse, Suicide, Domestic Violence |
| SOCC302 | Sociology of Development (विकास का समाजशास्त्र) | Major/Core (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Concept and Theories of Development, Underdevelopment and Dependency Theories, Development Strategies in India, Social Impact of Development, Sustainable Development, Human Development |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOCC303 | Urban Sociology (नगरीय समाजशास्त्र) | Major/Core (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Urban Sociology, Urbanization in India, Rural-Urban Continuum, Urban Social Structure, Urban Problems (Slums, Pollution), Theories of Urbanization, Urban Planning and Governance |
| SOCC304 | Social Demography (सामाजिक जनसांख्यिकी) | Major/Core (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Social Demography, Sources of Demographic Data in India, Fertility, Mortality, Migration: Concepts and Trends, Population Growth and Structure in India, Population Policies and Family Welfare Programs in India |




