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M-A in Sociology at Pt. Ramnayan Ramsukh Degree College, Sohnag, Belghat, Gorakhpur
Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Pt. Ramnayan Ramsukh Degree College, Sohnag, Belghat, Gorakhpur Gorakhpur?
This M.A. Sociology program at Pt. Ramnayan Ramsukh Degree College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and social dynamics. It delves into classical and contemporary sociological theories, research methodologies, and critical perspectives on Indian society, preparing students for analytical roles. The program aligns with the growing demand for social scientists in public policy, research, and community development sectors across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities and social sciences seeking entry into research, social work, or civil services. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their analytical skills for NGOs, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, or academic pursuits. Candidates with a keen interest in understanding societal issues and contributing to social change are particularly well-suited for this specialization.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social researchers, policy analysts, community development officers, and roles in NGOs. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 10 LPA in fields like social research and public administration. The program fosters critical thinking and empirical analysis, aligning with the requirements for competitive examinations like UPSC and various state civil services.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with classical and modern sociological theories. Read original texts, participate in classroom discussions, and form study groups to debate different theoretical perspectives. Focus on understanding the core arguments and their application to Indian social realities.
Tools & Resources
Core Sociology textbooks, Academic journals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles, research, and excelling in competitive exams like UPSC, where conceptual clarity is highly valued.
Master Research Methodology Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to quantitative and qualitative research methods. Practice designing small research proposals, developing questionnaires, and conducting mock interviews. Utilize free online courses on basic statistics to build analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, Basic statistical software (e.g., PSPP, Excel), Field visits for observation practice
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is essential for roles in market research, policy analysis, and academic research, making graduates highly employable.
Engage with Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement textbook knowledge with current events and socio-political discussions in India. Read national newspapers, follow debates on social issues, and participate in college seminars or workshops focused on contemporary Indian society.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Understanding current social issues in India prepares students for roles in NGOs, government welfare programs, and journalism, where contextual knowledge is key.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Collaborate with peers or faculty on small research projects to apply learned methodologies. This could involve surveys on local community issues, case studies, or content analysis. Document findings and present them in departmental forums.
Tools & Resources
Online survey tools (Google Forms), Basic data analysis techniques, Reference management software
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances CVs, provides concrete examples for interviews, and is a prerequisite for higher academic pursuits or research assistant roles.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Government Bodies- (Semester 3)
Actively look for short-term internships with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or research organizations during semester breaks. This provides invaluable exposure to real-world social problems and professional work environments.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites, College placement cell
Career Connection
Internships are critical for networking, gaining practical experience, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations for future jobs.
Network with Alumni and Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and alumni meet-ups. Connect with alumni working in sociology-related fields to gain insights into career paths, industry trends, and job opportunities. Use platforms like LinkedIn for professional networking.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network portal, Departmental events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, job referrals, and a better understanding of the professional landscape, crucial for career advancement.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project Excellence- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that aligns with your career interests and offers scope for in-depth research. Work closely with your supervisor, dedicating significant time to data collection, analysis, and report writing, aiming for publishable quality.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (R, SPSS, Python for data science), Academic writing guides, University library resources
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases specialized knowledge and research capability, making you a strong candidate for research roles, think tanks, or Ph.D. programs.
Prepare for Civil Services or Specialized Exams- (Semester 4)
If aiming for civil services or other competitive exams, start dedicated preparation. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and the optional subject (Sociology). Join coaching classes if feasible, and practice mock tests regularly.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PCS preparation books, Online coaching platforms, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Targeted preparation is essential for securing positions in highly competitive government sectors, offering stable and impactful career paths.
Develop Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in seminars, present your research findings, and lead group discussions. Practice articulating complex sociological concepts clearly and concisely. Strong communication is vital for all professional roles.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters clubs (if available), College debate societies, Practice presentations with peers
Career Connection
Effective communication and presentation skills are universally valued, enhancing your ability to influence, teach, or lead in any professional environment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A. with Sociology as a subject, or a related discipline with minimum marks as per DDUGU norms) from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MASO 101 | Classical Sociological Traditions | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte and Positivism, Herbert Spencer and Social Evolution, Emile Durkheim: Division of Labor, Suicide, Religion, Max Weber: Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict |
| MASO 102 | Perspectives on Indian Society | Core | 4 | Indological Perspective, Structural-Functional Perspective, Marxist Perspective, Subaltern Perspective, Feminist Perspective |
| MASO 103 | Methodology of Sociological Research | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Research, Research Design Types, Data Collection Techniques (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Methods, Ethics in Social Research |
| MASO 104 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Development, Models of Development in India, Social Change and Development, Sustainable Development, Globalization and Development |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MASO 201 | Modern Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theories (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Feminist Theories and Post-Structuralism |
| MASO 202 | Quantitative Research Methods and Statistics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Statistics in Sociology, Measures of Central Tendency and Dispersion, Correlation and Regression Analysis, Probability and Hypothesis Testing, Data Presentation and Interpretation |
| MASO 203 | Sociology of Rural Society | Core | 4 | Rural Social Structure and Change, Agrarian Relations and Peasantry, Rural Development Programs and Policies, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rural-Urban Linkages |
| MASO 204 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 4 | Industry and Society, Theories of Industrial Relations, Work Organization and Labor Welfare, Trade Unions and Industrial Disputes, Globalization and Indian Industry |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MASO 301 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Theories of Population, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration, Population Structure and Composition, Population Policies in India, Demographic Challenges and Opportunities |
| MASO 302 | Social Stratification and Mobility | Core | 4 | Concepts of Inequality, Class, Status, Power, Caste System in India: Continuity and Change, Theories of Social Mobility, Gender and Class Stratification, Dimensions of Inequality in Contemporary India |
| MASO 303 (Elective) | Sociology of Education | Elective | 4 | Education as a Social Institution, Education and Social Mobility, Problems of Indian Education System, Educational Policies and Reforms, Education and Social Change |
| MASO 304 (Elective) | Political Sociology | Elective | 4 | Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, State, Civil Society, and Governance, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Social Movements and Political Participation, Bureaucracy and Democracy in India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MASO 401 | Sociology of Environment | Core | 4 | Environment and Society: Interrelationships, Ecological Problems and Social Responses, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy, Climate Change and Social Impact |
| MASO 402 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Theories of Urbanization, Urban Social Structure and Dynamics, Slums, Urban Poverty, and Marginalization, Urban Planning and Governance, Problems and Challenges of Indian Cities |
| MASO 403 (Elective) | Criminology and Penology | Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Criminology, Theories of Crime and Deviance, Types of Crime in India, Criminal Justice System, Penology and Correctional Administration |
| MASO 404 | Dissertation / Project Work / Viva-Voce | Project | 4 | Formulation of Research Proposal, Data Collection and Analysis, Dissertation Writing and Presentation, Viva-Voce Examination, Independent Research Skills |
