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BA in Sociology at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya, Kasimpur Behdar
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya, Kasimpur Behdar Hardoi?
This Sociology program at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with CSJMU, focuses on understanding human society, social behavior patterns, and social change. It delves into the complexities of Indian society, its institutions, and contemporary challenges. The curriculum provides a strong theoretical foundation alongside practical research skills, preparing students for various roles in social development, research, and public administration. This program is highly relevant in India''''s diverse socio-cultural landscape, where understanding societal dynamics is crucial for policy-making and community engagement.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a 10+2 qualification in any stream who possess a keen interest in understanding societal structures, human behavior, and social issues. It also caters to individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, social work, journalism, and research, providing them with a robust theoretical and methodological grounding in social sciences. No specific prerequisite background beyond intermediate education is required.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in NGOs, government social welfare departments, research organizations, public relations, and human resources. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with significant growth trajectories in areas like social research and development management, potentially reaching 8-12 LPA with experience. The program also serves as an excellent foundation for pursuing postgraduate studies in Sociology, Social Work, or Public Policy, enhancing professional development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational sociological theories and concepts taught in semesters 1 and 2. Focus on understanding the core ideas of thinkers like Comte, Durkheim, and Weber, and apply them to analyze everyday social phenomena. Participate in classroom discussions and seek clarifications from faculty regularly.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks, Standard Indian Sociology authors (e.g., M.N. Srinivas, Andre Beteille), Academic journals accessible via college library
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical thinking, a key skill for research, policy analysis, and competitive exams like UPSC, which frequently test sociological concepts.
Develop Academic Writing and Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Practice critical reading of sociological texts and develop coherent essay writing skills. Focus on structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and expressing complex ideas clearly. Regularly read newspaper editorials and current affairs articles related to social issues to broaden perspective.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online academic writing guides, Newspapers like The Hindu, Indian Express
Career Connection
Effective communication and analytical writing are essential for all professional fields, especially in research, journalism, public relations, and civil services, where report writing and policy briefs are common.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics, share notes, and clarify doubts. Present your understanding of concepts to each other to solidify learning and gain different perspectives. This also helps in developing presentation and articulation skills.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated study space, Collaborative online documents (e.g., Google Docs), Whiteboard for brainstorming
Career Connection
Collaboration and teamwork are highly valued in any professional environment. This practice helps in developing interpersonal skills, critical thinking through debate, and effective communication, beneficial for group projects and professional interactions.
Intermediate Stage
Master Social Research Methods- (Semester 3-4)
Diligently learn and practice the research methodologies covered in semesters 3 and 4, including qualitative and quantitative methods, sampling, and data collection tools. Undertake small-scale surveys or interviews within your local community to apply theoretical knowledge practically.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/Excel for data analysis (basic), Google Forms for surveys, CSJMU library resources on research methodology, Local community for practical application
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods opens doors to roles in market research, social impact assessment, academic research, and policy analysis, which are in high demand across government, NGOs, and private firms in India.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Social Organizations- (Semester 3-5)
Actively search for and apply for internships during semester breaks with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or community development organizations. This provides invaluable exposure to real-world social problems and the practical application of sociological concepts.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, LinkedIn, connect with faculty for leads, College placement cell (if available), Local NGO directories
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining practical experience, building a professional network, and understanding potential career paths in the social sector, significantly enhancing employability and placement chances in India.
Participate in Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend university-level or departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures on current social issues, research techniques, or career guidance. Engaging with experts and new ideas keeps you updated and broadens your academic perspective.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, department emails, Online platforms for webinars, College event calendar
Career Connection
Networking with professionals and academics can lead to mentorship opportunities, research collaborations, and exposure to diverse career paths. It also demonstrates proactive learning and engagement, which are attractive to potential employers.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
In semesters 5 and 6, dedicate significant effort to your research project/dissertation. Choose a topic aligned with your career interests, conduct thorough research, and present your findings rigorously. This is your chance to showcase independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisor/mentor, Statistical software (SPSS, R basic), Extensive library and online database access
Career Connection
A well-executed research project is a strong portfolio piece, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills highly valued in research roles, postgraduate admissions, and competitive government exams.
Prepare for Post-Graduation and Career Opportunities- (Semester 5-6)
Begin preparing for entrance exams for Master''''s programs (e.g., MA Sociology, MSW) or competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs. Focus on general knowledge, current affairs, and logical reasoning, alongside strengthening sociological concepts. Utilize career counseling services if available.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC exam guides and previous year papers, Online coaching platforms, Career counseling cell (if any)
Career Connection
Proactive preparation for higher studies or civil services examinations ensures a smooth transition post-graduation, leading to advanced academic qualifications or esteemed public sector roles in India.
Develop Specialized Knowledge in Elective Areas- (Semester 5-6)
Deep dive into the elective subjects chosen in semesters 5 and 6 (e.g., Social Problems, Development, Environment, Demography). Read extensively beyond the syllabus, follow current debates, and identify specific areas where you wish to specialize for future career or academic pursuits.
Tools & Resources
Specialized books, research papers, government reports, Documentaries and news analyses on chosen topics, Expert interviews if possible
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles in NGOs, policy think tanks, or government departments focused on these areas (e.g., environmental policy, rural development), giving you a competitive edge in the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) in any stream from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 50 (for Sociology Major subjects only) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for Theory papers), External: 75% (for Theory papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S010101T | Introduction to Sociology | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Sociology, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Institution, Association, Social Groups: Primary, Secondary, Reference Groups, Socialization: Meaning, Stages, Agencies, Culture: Meaning, Characteristics, Elements, Types, Social Control: Formal and Informal Agencies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S010201T | Society in India: Structure, Organization and Change | Core (Major) | 4 | Characteristics of Indian Society, Village, Caste System, Jajmani System, Family, Marriage, Kinship in India, Religion and Religious Pluralism, Social Change in India: Westernization, Sanskritization, Contemporary Social Issues in India |
| S010202P | Field Survey Report | Practical (Major) | 2 | Introduction to Fieldwork, Observation Techniques, Data Recording and Analysis, Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Field Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S020301T | Research Methods in Sociology | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Significance of Social Research, Scientific Method and Social Research, Research Design: Types and Components, Data Collection Methods: Observation, Interview, Questionnaire, Sampling: Types and Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| S020302P | Statistical Methods & Computer Applications in Sociology | Practical (Major) | 2 | Basic Statistical Concepts: Mean, Median, Mode, Correlation and Regression, Introduction to SPSS/Excel for Data Analysis, Data Presentation: Graphs and Charts, Hypothesis Testing (Basic Concepts) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S020401T | Sociological Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Auguste Comte: Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences, Herbert Spencer: Social Darwinism, Organic Analogy, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, M.K. Gandhi: Trusteeship, Satyagraha, Village Swaraj |
| S020402P | Socio-Economic Survey Report | Practical (Major) | 2 | Designing a Socio-Economic Survey, Questionnaire Development, Conducting Interviews and Surveys, Data Tabulation and Classification, Report Writing on Survey Findings |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S030501T | Social Problems & Welfare (Major Elective D-1, choice of one) | Elective (Major) | 4 | Meaning and Causes of Social Problems, Poverty and Unemployment in India, Crime, Delinquency, Corruption, Drug Abuse, Alcoholism, Suicide, Women and Child Welfare Issues, Social Welfare Policies and Programs |
| S030504T | Sociology of Development (Major Elective D-2, choice of one) | Elective (Major) | 4 | Concept and Theories of Development, Indicators of Development (Economic, Social, Human), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Rural and Urban Development Strategies, Role of NGOs and Government in Development, Challenges to Development in India |
| S030507P | Project Report | Project (Major) | 6 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Dissertation Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S030601T | Environment and Society (Major Elective D-3, choice of one) | Elective (Major) | 4 | Emergence of Environmental Sociology, Human-Environment Relationship, Environmental Problems: Pollution, Deforestation, Climate Change and its Social Impact, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Practices and Policies |
| S030604T | Social Demography (Major Elective D-4, choice of one) | Elective (Major) | 4 | Basic Concepts of Demography: Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Theories of Population Growth, Population Structure and Composition in India, Population Policies and Family Planning, Urbanization and its Demographic Impact, Demographic Dividend and Challenges |
| S030607P | Research Project/Dissertation | Project (Major) | 6 | Advanced Research Design, In-depth Literature Review, Qualitative and Quantitative Data Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation Skills, Formulation of Policy Recommendations, Independent Research Execution |
