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BA in Sociology at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous)
Ernakulam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous) Ernakulam?
This BA Sociology program at Sacred Heart College (Autonomous) focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. It delves into the complexities of social structures, institutions, and change, with a significant emphasis on the Indian context. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills to interpret societal phenomena and contribute to informed policy-making and social reform, addressing contemporary societal challenges in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in understanding societal dynamics, human interaction, and cultural diversity. It attracts students passionate about social justice, community development, and research. Individuals aspiring to careers in social work, public administration, journalism, education, or non-profit sectors in India will find this program highly beneficial, providing a robust theoretical and methodological foundation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in NGOs, government social welfare departments, research institutions, journalism, and human resources. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8 LPA or more. The program prepares students for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs, and offers a strong base for pursuing higher education in Sociology, Social Work, or related fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Foundational Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on grasping core sociological concepts, classical theories, and fundamental research methodologies introduced in the initial semesters. Regularly review class notes, utilize library resources for supplementary readings, and actively participate in discussions to solidify understanding. Form study groups with peers to clarify doubts and explore different perspectives on societal issues.
Tools & Resources
College Library, NCERT Sociology textbooks, Online academic journals (e.g., JSTOR for foundational articles), Study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures academic excellence, which is crucial for higher studies and helps in developing critical thinking skills vital for any sociology-related career.
Develop Academic Writing and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the English common courses focusing on academic writing, critical thinking, and presentation skills. Practice writing structured essays, research papers, and delivering presentations on sociological topics. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to continually improve your articulation and analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), College writing center (if available), Presentation software like PowerPoint
Career Connection
Effective communication and academic writing are indispensable for research, policy advocacy, journalism, and any professional role requiring clear articulation of ideas.
Engage with Indian Social Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, actively seek to understand local and national social issues. Read Indian newspapers and journals, watch documentaries, and participate in college-organized community outreach programs. This helps in contextualizing theoretical knowledge with the ground realities of Indian society.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Local NGOs for volunteer opportunities
Career Connection
Deep understanding of India-specific social contexts is invaluable for careers in social work, public policy, and developmental organizations working in the country.
Intermediate Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodologies and Data Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
As you advance, dedicate significant effort to understanding quantitative and qualitative research methods. Practice designing questionnaires, conducting interviews, and performing basic data analysis. Consider taking workshops or online courses to build proficiency in statistical software or qualitative analysis tools, even if not part of the core curriculum.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (introductory level), NVivo (for qualitative data), Coursera/edX courses on research methods, Departmental workshops
Career Connection
Strong research skills are highly sought after by research firms, NGOs for impact assessment, and government agencies for policy evaluation.
Explore Specializations through Electives and Complementaries- (Semester 3-5)
Use the elective and complementary course choices to delve deeper into areas of interest like Rural Sociology, Urban Sociology, or Abnormal Psychology. This helps in identifying a niche and building specialized knowledge. Attend guest lectures and seminars related to these areas to broaden your perspective.
Tools & Resources
Elective course offerings, Departmental seminars, Online forums for specific sociological sub-fields
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge can open doors to specific roles in urban planning, rural development, mental health support, or focused social research.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-5)
Attend conferences, workshops, and career fairs hosted by the college or local organizations. Connect with sociology alumni working in various fields to gain insights into career paths, industry trends, and internship opportunities. Participate in academic clubs or societies within the college.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College Alumni Association events, Departmental faculty for introductions, Local professional associations
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for internships, job referrals, and mentorship, significantly improving placement prospects and career growth.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Utilize the final year project to conduct in-depth research on a topic of genuine interest. Focus on meticulous data collection, rigorous analysis, and clear report writing. This project should showcase your cumulative learning and research capabilities, potentially leading to publication or presentation at student conferences.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (Google Scholar, ResearchGate), Statistical software, College''''s ethics committee for research approval, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A strong project is a powerful resume builder, demonstrating practical research skills to potential employers or for admission to postgraduate programs.
Prepare for Post-Graduation and Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Identify your post-graduation goals early, whether it''''s an MA in Sociology, MSW, or competitive exams like UPSC, KPSC, or bank exams. Start dedicated preparation, including mock tests and targeted study for relevant subjects (e.g., General Studies, Sociology optional). Seek guidance from career counseling cells.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year question papers, College''''s career counseling cell
Career Connection
Focused preparation significantly increases chances of securing admission to top universities or landing coveted government jobs in India.
Seek Internships and Field Experiences- (Semester 5-6 (during breaks and alongside studies))
Actively look for internships with NGOs, social welfare departments, or research organizations during semester breaks or as part of the curriculum. Practical field experience provides invaluable exposure to professional work environments, allows application of theoretical knowledge, and builds a professional portfolio relevant to India''''s social sector.
Tools & Resources
Online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), College placement cell, Direct applications to NGOs/research organizations
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct gateway to full-time employment and help bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands, especially in the social and development sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed Plus Two or equivalent examination or an examination recognized by the Mahatma Gandhi University are eligible for admission to the BA Degree Program.
Duration: 6 Semesters / 3 Years
Credits: 126 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG1A01 | Academic Writing and Presentation Skills | Common (English) | 4 | Academic Writing Conventions, Paragraphs and Essays, Research Skills, Referencing and Citation, Presentation Techniques |
| ENG1A02 | Readings in Literature | Common (English) | 4 | Short Stories Analysis, Poetry Appreciation, Drama Excerpts, Literary Movements, Themes in Literature |
| MAL1A07 | ആധുനിക മലയാള കവിത (Modern Malayalam Poetry) | Common (Additional Language - Malayalam) | 4 | Modernism in Malayalam Poetry, Major Malayalam Poets, Poetic Movements and Trends, Themes in Modern Poetry, Literary Analysis and Criticism |
| SO1CRT01 | Introduction to Sociology and Social Thought | Core | 4 | Emergence of Sociology, Basic Concepts (Society, Community, Institution), Socialization and Culture, Social Groups and Associations, Social Control and Deviance |
| SO1CRT02 | Methodology of Social Sciences | Core | 4 | Philosophy of Social Science, Scientific Method in Social Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Techniques (Observation, Interview), Sampling Methods and Types |
| PSY1CMT01 | General Psychology I | Complementary (Psychology) | 3 | Introduction to Psychology, Biological Bases of Behavior, Sensation and Perception, Learning and Conditioning, Memory Systems and Processes |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG2A03 | Critical Thinking and Academic Writing | Common (English) | 4 | Logic and Argumentation, Identification of Fallacies, Argumentative Essay Writing, Critical Analysis of Texts, Report Writing |
| ENG2A04 | Readings in Fiction and Philosophy | Common (English) | 4 | Analysis of Novels, Philosophical Concepts, Existentialism, Postmodernism, Literary Theory Applications |
| MAL2A08 | മലയാള ഗദ്യസാഹിത്യം (Malayalam Prose Literature) | Common (Additional Language - Malayalam) | 4 | Evolution of Malayalam Prose, Forms of Malayalam Essays, Travelogues and Biographies, Literary Journals and Magazines, Prominent Malayalam Prose Writers |
| SO2CRT03 | Classical Sociological Theory | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte and Positivism, Herbert Spencer and Social Darwinism, Emile Durkheim and Social Facts, Max Weber and Ideal Types, Karl Marx and Class Conflict |
| SO2CRT04 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Demography, Fertility and its Determinants, Mortality and Health Indicators, Migration Patterns and Theories, Population Structure in India |
| PSY2CMT02 | General Psychology II | Complementary (Psychology) | 3 | Motivation and Emotion, Personality Theories, Intelligence and its Measurement, Psychological Assessment, Introduction to Abnormal Psychology |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG3A05 | Readings in Poetry and Drama | Common (English) | 4 | Poetic Forms and Devices, Dramatic Structures, Classical and Modern Drama, Elizabethan Theatre, Symbolism in Literature |
| MAL3A09 | ചെറുകഥയും നോവലും (Short Story and Novel) | Common (Additional Language - Malayalam) | 4 | Short Story Form and Elements, Novel Structure and Types, Major Works in Malayalam Short Story, Prominent Malayalam Novelists, Narrative Techniques and Critical Approaches |
| SO3CRT05 | Social Stratification and Mobility | Core | 4 | Dimensions of Social Stratification (Class, Caste), Gender and Race in Stratification, Theories of Stratification (Functionalist, Conflict), Social Mobility and its Types, Poverty, Inequality, and Social Exclusion |
| SO3CRT06 | Sociological Theories in India | Core | 4 | Early Indian Sociological Thinkers (GS Ghurye, MN Srinivas), Critiques of Indian Sociology, Village Studies and Rural Transformation, Caste System in Contemporary India, Religion, Modernity, and Secularism |
| PSY3CMT03 | Abnormal Psychology | Complementary (Psychology) | 3 | Concepts of Abnormality, Anxiety and Related Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders, Personality Disorders and Therapies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG4A06 | Readings in Literary Criticism and Theory | Common (English) | 4 | Formalism and New Criticism, Structuralism and Poststructuralism, Feminist Literary Criticism, Postcolonial Theory, Deconstruction and Reader-Response |
| MAL4A10 | നാടകസാഹിത്യം (Drama Literature) | Common (Additional Language - Malayalam) | 4 | History of Malayalam Drama, Major Malayalam Playwrights, Theatrical Traditions and Performance, Dramatic Criticism and Theories, Modern Trends in Malayalam Theatre |
| SO4CRT07 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Nature of Social Psychology, Socialization and Identity Formation, Attitudes and Behavior Change, Group Dynamics and Leadership, Collective Behavior and Crowd Psychology |
| SO4CRT08 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Power, Authority, and Legitimacy, State, Civil Society, and Governance, Political Parties and Ideologies, Social Movements and Political Change, Democracy and Citizenship |
| SO4CRT09 | Indian Society: Structure and Change | Core | 4 | Unity in Diversity, Family, Marriage, and Kinship in India, Caste System and its Transformations, Religion, Communalism, and Secularism, Rural-Urban Transformation and Development |
| PSY4CMT04 | Social Psychology | Complementary (Psychology) | 3 | Social Cognition and Perception, Attitudes, Prejudice, and Discrimination, Interpersonal Attraction and Relationships, Group Processes and Conformity, Prosocial Behavior and Aggression |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SO5CRT10 | Social Research Methods | Core | 4 | Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches, Survey Research Design, Case Study and Content Analysis, Ethnography and Participant Observation, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| SO5CRT11 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Development, Underdevelopment and Dependency, Sustainable Development Goals, Globalization and Development, Development Challenges in India |
| SO5CRT12 | Sociology of Gender | Core | 4 | Gender as a Social Construct, Feminist Perspectives on Gender, Patriarchy and Gender Roles, Gender and Development, Gender Issues and Movements in India |
| SO5CRT13 | Sociology of Environment | Core | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction, Environmental Problems and Disasters, Environmental Movements and Activism, Climate Change and Society, Sustainable Practices and Policy |
| SO5OCT01 | Disaster Management | Open Course (Option 1 of 2) | 3 | Types of Disasters (Natural, Man-made), Disaster Cycle and Stages, Preparedness and Prevention, Mitigation Strategies, Response and Rehabilitation |
| SO5OCT02 | Human Rights | Open Course (Option 2 of 2) | 3 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in Indian Context, Human Rights Violations and Challenges, Role of NGOs and International Bodies |
| SO5ELT01 | Rural Sociology | Elective (Option 1 of 3 for Semester 5) | 3 | Characteristics of Rural Community, Agrarian Structure and Relations, Rural Development Programs in India, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rural Migration and Social Change |
| SO5ELT02 | Urban Sociology | Elective (Option 2 of 3 for Semester 5) | 3 | Urbanization and its Theories, Patterns of Urban Growth in India, Urban Problems (Slums, Pollution), Urban Planning and Development, Social Life in Urban Settings |
| SO5ELT03 | Sociology of Mass Communication | Elective (Option 3 of 3 for Semester 5) | 3 | Media and Society Interaction, Theories of Mass Communication, Media Effects on Audiences, Role of Media in Indian Society, New Media and Digital Communication |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SO6CRT14 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 4 | Industry and Society Relationship, Work Organizations and Management, Industrial Relations and Conflict, Labour Movements and Trade Unions, Globalization and its Impact on Work |
| SO6CRT15 | Globalization and Society | Core | 4 | Concepts of Globalization, Economic Globalization and its Impact, Cultural Globalization and Hybridization, Global Inequalities and Poverty, Globalization''''s Effects on Indian Society |
| SO6CRT16 | Sociology of Health | Core | 4 | Social Determinants of Health, Health and Illness as Social Constructs, Medical Systems and Healthcare Delivery, Public Health Challenges in India, Health Policy and Social Equity |
| SO6PRT01 | Project | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review and Problem Formulation, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| SO6ELT04 | Criminology | Elective (Option 1 of 4 for Semester 6) | 3 | Nature and Scope of Crime, Theories of Criminal Behavior, Deviance and Social Control, Criminal Justice System in India, Punishment, Rehabilitation, and Prevention |
| SO6ELT05 | Social Gerontology | Elective (Option 2 of 4 for Semester 6) | 3 | Aging in Society, Theories of Aging, Social Problems of the Elderly, Care for the Elderly and Support Systems, Policies and Programs for Aged Population |
| SO6ELT06 | Tribal Sociology | Elective (Option 3 of 4 for Semester 6) | 3 | Tribal Communities in India, Tribal Culture and Social Organization, Forest Rights and Land Alienation, Development Issues and Policies, Tribal Movements and Identity |
| SO6ELT07 | Cyber Sociology | Elective (Option 4 of 4 for Semester 6) | 3 | Internet and Society, Online Communities and Social Networks, Cybercrime and Digital Deviance, Digital Divide and Inequality, Social Media Impact and Culture |
