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B-A in Sociology at R.N. Girls Degree College
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at R.N. Girls Degree College Lucknow?
This B.A. Sociology program at R.N. Girls Degree College, affiliated with the University of Lucknow, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It aligns with India''''s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing interdisciplinary learning and skill development. The program delves into foundational sociological theories, research methodologies, and contemporary social issues relevant to the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding social dynamics, inequality, and cultural diversity. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to careers in social work, research, public administration, or non-profit sectors. It''''s also suitable for those seeking a strong theoretical base for higher studies in social sciences or competitive civil services examinations in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including social researchers, policy analysts, community development officers, human resource specialists, and journalists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in government or NGO roles. It provides a solid foundation for UPSC/PCS exams and postgraduate studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational theories and concepts in Sociology (e.g., society, culture, social institutions). Utilize online resources like NPTEL lectures, SWAYAM courses, and standard Indian textbooks (e.g., NCERT, Haralambos & Holborn for concepts). Participate in regular study groups to discuss complex ideas and relate them to contemporary Indian society.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, SWAYAM, NCERT Sociology Textbooks, Sociology reference books
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is crucial for academic success, competitive exams like UPSC, and for clear communication in any future role in social sciences.
Develop Critical Thinking and Observation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing daily social phenomena through a sociological lens. Read Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and magazines critically, identifying underlying social structures and issues. Engage in debates and discussions on current affairs to hone analytical abilities and express reasoned arguments.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express editorials, Documentaries on Indian social issues, Debate clubs
Career Connection
Essential for research roles, policy analysis, and any profession requiring problem-solving and insightful understanding of societal challenges.
Participate in College Sociological Events- (Semester 1-2)
Join the Sociology department''''s clubs, seminars, or workshops. Actively present on topics, organize events, and collaborate with peers and faculty. This builds presentation skills, teamwork, and an understanding of academic event management within the Indian college environment.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Sociology club activities, College cultural festivals
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills, networking, and provides practical experience, valuable for interviews and group discussions in various professional fields.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Apply research methodology knowledge by conducting small-scale surveys or qualitative studies on local social issues (e.g., impact of digital education in your locality, gender roles in urban families). Utilize basic statistical software or qualitative analysis tools, and seek faculty mentorship. Present findings in college forums.
Tools & Resources
Google Forms, Basic Excel, Observation techniques, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills, data interpretation, and report writing, highly valued in social research, NGO work, and market research roles.
Engage with Social Organizations- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities for volunteering or internships with local NGOs, government social welfare departments, or community development projects during semester breaks. This provides firsthand exposure to social problems and grassroots interventions in an Indian context, bridging theoretical knowledge with practical challenges.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs (e.g., Childline India, HelpAge India), Government schemes/departments, Volunteer platforms
Career Connection
Builds a professional network, provides real-world experience, and clarifies career interests in social work or development sectors.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-5)
Begin systematic preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services (with Sociology optional), State PSCs, or entrance exams for Master''''s programs. Regularly read current affairs, practice essay writing, and solve previous year question papers to build exam-specific skills and time management.
Tools & Resources
Current affairs magazines (e.g., Yojana, Kurukshetra), Previous year question papers, Online coaching modules
Career Connection
Directly prepares for high-demand government jobs and opens pathways for advanced academic pursuits.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Research- (Semester 5-6)
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) and Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) in Semesters 5 and 6 that align with your career aspirations (e.g., Industrial Sociology for HR, Environmental Sociology for advocacy). Undertake a comprehensive project/dissertation, focusing on original research or in-depth analysis of a chosen social issue, potentially leading to a publication.
Tools & Resources
Advanced research methodologies, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for beginners), Academic journals
Career Connection
Deepens expertise, enhances specialization for specific job roles, and provides a strong portfolio for higher education applications or research positions.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Actively connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in fields of interest through online platforms (e.g., LinkedIn) and college alumni meets. Seek mentorship for career guidance, understanding industry trends, and identifying job/internship opportunities. Attend national/state-level sociology conferences or workshops.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional conferences
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, job referrals, and valuable career advice, crucial for navigating the competitive Indian job market.
Develop Professional Presentation and Interview Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Practice presenting your project work and participating in mock interviews. Focus on articulating your sociological understanding, research experience, and critical thinking. Prepare a strong resume highlighting internships, projects, and soft skills relevant to your target roles. Utilize college career services for guidance.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Mock interview sessions, Resume building workshops
Career Connection
Directly prepares for job interviews and academic viva voce, significantly improving chances of securing placements or admission to postgraduate programs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per University of Lucknow/College norms (typically 10+2 pass in any stream)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 74 (for Major Sociology component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 101 | Introduction to Sociology | Core (Major I) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts (Society, Community, Institution, Norms, Values), Social Groups and Social Structure, Culture and Socialization, Social Control |
| S.O. 102 | Society and Culture of Uttar Pradesh | Core (Major II) | 4 | Society and Culture in U.P., Demographic Profile and Social Structure, Rural and Urban Society in U.P., Folk Culture, Arts, Traditions, and Festivals, Social Change in U.P. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 201 | Sociological Thought | Core (Major I) | 4 | Enlightenment Thinkers and Early Sociological Thought, Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Emile Durkheim: Division of Labor, Social Facts, Suicide, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict |
| S.O. 202 | Social Problems in India | Core (Major II) | 4 | Concept of Social Problem, Deviance, Anomie, Poverty, Unemployment, Illiteracy, Crime, Juvenile Delinquency, Corruption, Drug Abuse, Alcoholism, Domestic Violence, Environmental Pollution, Terrorism, Regionalism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 301 | Research Methodology | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Social Research, Types of Research, Hypothesis, Research Design, Methods of Data Collection (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
| S.O. 302 | Social Stratification | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Dimensions of Social Stratification, Theories of Social Stratification (Functionalist, Conflict), Class, Status, Power, Caste System in India, Scheduled Castes, Tribes, Gender and Inequality |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 401 | Population and Society | Core (Major) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Population Studies, Theories of Population Growth (Malthusian, Demographic Transition), Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Structure and Composition, Population Policies in India |
| S.O. 402 | Rural and Urban Sociology | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Rural Sociology, Characteristics of Rural and Urban Communities, Rural Social Structure, Agrarian Class Structure, Urbanization in India, Rural-Urban Migration, Urban Problems and Planning |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 501 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology | Core (Major) | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Perspective (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Ethnomethodology (Garfinkel), Feminist Perspectives, Postmodernism |
| S.O. 502 | Sociology of Indian Society | Core (Major) | 4 | Colonialism and Nationalist Thought, Unity and Diversity in Indian Society, Caste System: Changing Dimensions, Dominant Caste, Family, Marriage, Kinship in India, Religion, Secularism, and Communalism |
| S.O. 503A | Industrial Sociology | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 3 | Nature and Scope of Industrial Sociology, Industrialization in India, Industrial Relations, Trade Unions, Work, Industry and Society, Globalization and Labour |
| S.O. 503B | Environmental Sociology | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 3 | Nature and Scope of Environmental Sociology, Human-Environment Relationship, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Social Impact |
| S.O. 504A | Communication Skills | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Fundamentals of Communication, Types of Communication, Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Listening Skills, Public Speaking, Digital Communication |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S.O. 601 | Social Change and Development | Core (Major) | 4 | Concept and Theories of Social Change, Development: Approaches and Critiques, Modernization, Globalization, Liberalization, Social Movements in India, Gender and Development, Role of NGOs |
| S.O. 602 | Project Work/ Dissertation/ Viva Voce | Core (Major) | 6 | Problem Identification and Review of Literature, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
| S.O. 603A | Sociology of Gender | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 3 | Basic Concepts of Sex and Gender, Gender Socialization, Patriarchy, Gender and Work, Health, Education, Feminist Theories, Gender Movements in India |
| S.O. 603B | Urban Sociology | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 3 | Approaches to Urban Study, Urban Ecology, Urbanism as a Way of Life, Urban Planning and Policies, Slums and Poverty in Cities, Urban Social Problems |
| S.O. 604A | Entrepreneurship Development | Elective (Skill Enhancement) | 2 | Concept and Role of Entrepreneurship, Forms of Business Ownership, Business Plan Preparation, Marketing and Finance for Start-ups, Challenges and Opportunities in India |
