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B-A-HONS in Sociology at RK University
Rajkot, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at RK University Rajkot?
This B.A. (Hons.) Sociology program at RK University focuses on understanding societal structures, human behavior within groups, and social change. It delves into the complexities of Indian society, global social issues, and theoretical frameworks, preparing students for analytical roles in a rapidly evolving world. The program emphasizes critical thinking and research skills crucial for addressing contemporary challenges and contributing to social development in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for curious young minds, fresh graduates from any stream who possess a keen interest in social justice, human behavior, and community development. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in NGOs, social research, policy analysis, civil services, or human resources. No specific prerequisite background beyond 10+2 is required, making it accessible for diverse learners.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social work, research assistant roles, policy advocacy, human resource management, and journalism. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The analytical and research skills developed are highly valued, aligning with demands for critical thinkers in both public and private sectors, including opportunities in competitive exams like UPSC.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core sociological concepts, theories, and methodologies introduced in foundational courses. Regularly review class notes, utilize the university library for supplementary readings, and participate in discussion groups to clarify doubts and deepen understanding.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals, Online sociological encyclopedias, Peer study groups, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is essential for advanced studies, research, and for effectively analyzing social issues in any professional role.
Develop Effective Academic Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Prioritize honing critical thinking, academic writing, and presentation skills through all assignments. Seek feedback on essays and presentations, practice concise articulation, and learn proper referencing styles to build a strong academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Writing centers, Online grammar checkers, Academic style guides (APA, MLA), University workshops on presentation skills
Career Connection
Strong communication is vital for research reports, policy briefs, advocacy, and any professional interaction, enhancing employability.
Engage in Early Field Exposure- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in practical components like sociological perspectives and social research methods. Take initiative to observe local social phenomena, conduct mini-interviews, or volunteer with local NGOs during breaks to gain first-hand understanding of Indian societal dynamics.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, Community centers, University''''s social outreach programs, Observation journals
Career Connection
Early practical experience builds empathy, observational skills, and a realistic understanding of social problems, crucial for future roles in social work or development.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully select Generic Electives (GE) and Discipline Specific Electives (DSE) that align with personal interests and career aspirations within sociology, such as rural development, health, or gender studies. Dive deeper into the chosen areas through independent reading and project work.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Career counseling, Faculty mentors, Specialized academic texts
Career Connection
Strategic elective choices build a niche specialization, making you a more attractive candidate for specific job roles or higher education.
Participate in Research and Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to assist faculty in ongoing research projects, present papers at student conferences or university symposia, or contribute to academic publications. This builds significant research experience and academic networking.
Tools & Resources
Faculty research projects, University research grants, National/international sociology conferences (e.g., Indian Sociological Society)
Career Connection
Research experience is highly valued for postgraduate studies, roles in think tanks, and policy analysis, and demonstrates intellectual curiosity.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-5)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and seminars organized by the department or university. Connect with visiting scholars, industry professionals, and alumni through LinkedIn or university networking events to explore career avenues and gain insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Career fairs, Departmental events, Professional associations like the Indian Sociological Society
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorship, and job opportunities, providing valuable industry insights.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a High-Impact Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
For the final research project (BAS506P and BAS606V), choose a topic with real-world relevance to India. Conduct thorough primary and secondary research, apply advanced analytical skills, and aim for a publishable-quality report, showcasing independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, Statistical software (if applicable), University ethics review board, Academic databases, Field sites
Career Connection
A strong research project is a portfolio centerpiece for academic pursuits, research positions, and demonstrates problem-solving abilities to employers.
Engage in Intensive Civil Services Preparation- (Semester 6)
Given the relevance of Sociology to UPSC and other state PSC exams in India, integrate preparation for these competitive exams into the final year. Focus on general knowledge, current affairs, and how sociological concepts apply to public administration and social issues.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year question papers, Current affairs magazines, Study groups
Career Connection
This directly prepares graduates for coveted roles in the Indian administrative services, police services, and other government sectors, offering significant societal impact.
Develop Career-Specific Interview Skills- (Semester 6)
Actively participate in mock interviews and group discussions tailored for roles in NGOs, research organizations, or CSR departments. Practice articulating your sociological insights and research findings clearly, emphasizing problem-solving and critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Career services department, Mock interview platforms, Industry-specific interview guides, Peer feedback
Career Connection
Excellent interview skills are crucial for converting academic achievements into successful placements in desired professional fields.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 Pass in any Stream (H.S.C. or equivalent)
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 144 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS101T | Introduction to Sociology I | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts, Social Institutions, Culture and Socialization, Research Methods |
| BAS105T | Critical Thinking and Academic Writing | Core | 4 | Logic and Reasoning, Argumentation, Academic Writing Process, Research Skills, Referencing Styles |
| BAS103T | English Communication | AECC | 2 | Communication Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Public Speaking |
| BAS104T | Environmental Studies | AECC | 2 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Sustainable Development |
| BAS106P | Sociological Perspectives (Practical) | Core | 4 | Observation Techniques, Interviewing, Data Collection, Fieldwork Ethics, Report Writing |
| BAS102T | Political Science I (GE-I Option 1) | Generic Elective | 4 | State, Government and Political Theory, Rights and Duties, Forms of Government, Democracy, Constitutions |
| BAS107T | Introduction to Psychology I (GE-I Option 2) | Generic Elective | 4 | Foundations of Psychology, Research Methods, Sensation and Perception, Consciousness, Learning and Memory |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS201T | Introduction to Sociology II | Core | 4 | Social Stratification, Social Change, Social Problems, Deviance and Crime, Globalization |
| BAS203T | Indian Society | Core | 4 | Unity and Diversity in India, Social Structure, Caste System, Rural-Urban Linkages, Emerging Social Issues |
| BAS202T | Academic and Professional Communication | AECC | 2 | Professional Writing, Presentation Skills, Intercultural Communication, Digital Communication, Meeting Etiquette |
| BAS207T | Human Rights | AECC | 2 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Rights in India, International Human Rights Law, Human Rights Institutions |
| BAS204P | Social Research Methods (Practical) | Core | 4 | Survey Design, Questionnaire Development, Data Analysis (Basic), Fieldwork Ethics, Report Writing |
| BAS205T | Political Science II (GE-II Option 1) | Generic Elective | 4 | International Relations, Indian Political System, Political Ideologies, Public Administration, Contemporary Political Issues |
| BAS206T | Introduction to Psychology II (GE-II Option 2) | Generic Elective | 4 | Motivation and Emotion, Personality Theories, Stress and Coping, Psychological Disorders, Therapies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS301T | Sociological Theories I | Core | 4 | Classical Sociological Thinkers (Durkheim, Weber, Marx), Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Feminist Theories |
| BAS302T | Social Movements | Core | 4 | Theories of Social Movements, Types of Movements, Environmental Movements, Women''''s Movements, Dalit Movements |
| BAS303T | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Rural Social Structure, Agrarian Relations, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Migration |
| BAS304T | Basics of Data Analysis | SEC | 2 | Data Collection Methods, Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics (Basic), Data Interpretation, Software for Data Analysis |
| BAS305T | Public Policy (GE-III Option 1) | Generic Elective | 4 | Policy Making Process, Types of Public Policy, Policy Analysis, Role of State, Case Studies in Public Policy |
| BAS306T | Social Psychology (GE-III Option 2) | Generic Elective | 4 | Social Perception, Attitudes, Group Dynamics, Social Influence, Aggression and Prosocial Behavior |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS401T | Sociological Theories II | Core | 4 | Postmodernism, Structuration Theory, Critical Theory, Post-structuralism, Contemporary Sociological Debates |
| BAS402T | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Urbanization, Urban Social Structure, Urban Problems, Urban Planning, Global Cities |
| BAS403T | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Underdevelopment, Sustainable Development, Development Planning, Global Inequality |
| BAS404T | Introduction to Cyber Security | SEC | 2 | Cybercrime, Data Security, Network Security, Digital Forensics, Cyber Ethics |
| BAS405T | Principles of Microeconomics (GE-IV Option 1) | Generic Elective | 4 | Demand and Supply, Consumer Behavior, Production and Costs, Market Structures, Resource Allocation |
| BAS406T | Introduction to Marketing (GE-IV Option 2) | Generic Elective | 4 | Marketing Concepts, Market Segmentation, Product Life Cycle, Pricing Strategies, Promotion Mix |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS501T | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research |
| BAS502T | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Population Composition, Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Policies |
| BAS503T | Sociology of Health | DSE (Option 1) | 4 | Health and Society, Social Determinants of Health, Healthcare Systems, Health Inequalities, Medical Sociology |
| BAS504T | Industrial Sociology | DSE (Option 2) | 4 | Industrialization, Industrial Relations, Work Culture, Labor Movements, Globalization and Industry |
| BAS505T | Sociology of Gender | DSE (Option 3) | 4 | Gender as a Social Construct, Patriarchy, Gender Roles, Feminist Perspectives, Gender and Development |
| BAS506P | Research Project | Project | 4 | Project Proposal, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAS601T | Applied Sociology | Core | 4 | Social Planning, Social Intervention, Policy Evaluation, Community Development, Action Research |
| BAS602T | Environment and Society | Core | 4 | Ecological Perspectives, Environmental Movements, Climate Change, Environmental Governance, Sustainable Lifestyles |
| BAS603T | Visual Sociology | DSE (Option 1) | 4 | Visual Culture, Photography in Sociology, Documentary Film, Media Representation, Visual Research Methods |
| BAS604T | Diaspora and Transnationalism | DSE (Option 2) | 4 | Theories of Diaspora, Migration Patterns, Cultural Hybridity, Transnational Networks, Indian Diaspora |
| BAS605T | Political Sociology | DSE (Option 3) | 4 | Power and Authority, State and Society, Political Participation, Ideologies, Global Politics |
| BAS606V | Viva Voce | Project | 4 | Research Presentation, Defense of Project, Sociological Concepts, Current Social Issues, Critical Analysis |
