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B-A in Sociology at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya Varanasi?
This Sociology program at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, focuses on understanding human society, social behavior, patterns of social relationships, interaction, and culture. It delves into the intricate structures and dynamics of Indian society, addressing contemporary social issues. The program is designed to cultivate critical thinking about societal complexities and prepare students for impactful roles in research, policy, and community development, reflecting the evolving demands of India''''s diverse social landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with an interest in social issues, human behavior, and community development. It caters to individuals aspiring for careers in social work, research, public administration, journalism, or education. The course also benefits those looking to pursue higher studies in sociology, social policy, or related interdisciplinary fields, providing a robust theoretical and methodological foundation essential for navigating complex social realities in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths in government agencies, NGOs, research organizations, social policy think tanks, and media houses across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in roles like social researchers, community development officers, or policy analysts. The program enhances analytical and communication skills, vital for contributing to social welfare and navigating India''''s dynamic socio-economic environment.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Sociological Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core sociological concepts, theories, and the Indian social structure introduced in initial semesters. Engage in active reading of prescribed texts and supplementary materials to grasp the fundamental vocabulary and perspectives of sociology.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks (e.g., M.N. Srinivas, Andre Beteille), NCERT Sociology books (for basic clarity), University Library resources, Online academic journals (JSTOR, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is crucial for advanced studies and analytical roles in social research or policy formulation, enabling effective understanding of complex societal issues.
Develop Critical Thinking and Observation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, debate social issues, and practice observing societal phenomena around you with a sociological lens. Begin journaling observations on local social interactions, cultural practices, or community challenges.
Tools & Resources
Discussion forums, Newspaper articles (The Hindu, Indian Express), Documentaries on Indian society, Field observation notes
Career Connection
These skills are vital for social workers, journalists, and researchers who need to analyze and interpret real-world social problems effectively.
Engage in Peer Learning and Group Study- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex theories, share insights on readings, and prepare for exams collectively. Teaching peers helps solidify your own understanding and exposes you to diverse interpretations of sociological concepts.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Collaborative online platforms (Google Docs), Peer-to-peer tutoring, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Enhances communication and teamwork, critical soft skills for any professional role, especially in collaborative research or social project management.
Intermediate Stage
Master Social Research Methods- (Semester 3-4)
Pay special attention to research methodology papers. Conduct small-scale surveys, interviews, or observations on campus or in your locality, even if not formally part of a project, to gain practical experience in data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/Excel for data analysis (basic), Google Forms for surveys, Interview transcription tools, Research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
Essential for roles in market research, policy analysis, and academic research, preparing students for conducting independent studies or contributing to larger research projects.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Social Welfare Bodies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities with local NGOs, government social welfare departments, or community development organizations during semester breaks. This provides invaluable real-world exposure to social issues and program implementation in India.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites (e.g., Oxfam India, Child Rights and You), University placement cell
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, builds professional networks, and clarifies career interests in social work, advocacy, or development sectors, significantly boosting placement prospects.
Participate in Seminars, Workshops, and Academic Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Attend seminars and workshops organized by the department or other institutions on contemporary social issues. Engage in essay competitions, debates, or presentation contests to hone your public speaking, research, and analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Academic event listings, Inter-college competitions
Career Connection
Enhances CV, improves presentation and communication skills, and provides opportunities for networking with academics and professionals, opening doors to research assistant positions.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Leverage the final year project/dissertation to delve deep into a specific social issue relevant to India. This involves identifying a research problem, conducting fieldwork, analyzing data, and writing a detailed report. Seek guidance from faculty mentors regularly.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology books, Statistical software (if applicable), EndNote/Zotero for referencing, University research labs
Career Connection
This capstone project is a strong portfolio piece, showcasing independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and a deep understanding of Indian social issues, highly valued by research organizations and higher education institutions.
Focus on Career Mapping and Skill Refinement- (Semester 5-6)
Identify specific career paths (e.g., social worker, policy analyst, academic) and research the required skills. Focus on refining relevant soft skills like communication, empathy, problem-solving, and data interpretation, tailored to the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, LinkedIn Learning, Mock interview practice, Resume/CV building workshops
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for job interviews and assessments, ensuring they articulate their sociological knowledge and skills effectively to potential employers in India''''s competitive job market.
Network with Alumni and Industry Professionals- (Semester 5-6)
Connect with Sociology alumni from Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya and Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith working in diverse fields. Attend alumni meets and industry events to gain insights into career trajectories, market trends, and potential job opportunities within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional networking events (e.g., those hosted by FICCI, CII for social sector), Faculty connections
Career Connection
Leveraging professional networks can lead to mentorship, internship offers, and direct job opportunities in various sectors including NGOs, government, and corporate CSR initiatives in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Successful completion of 10+2 (Intermediate) examination from a recognized board or equivalent.
Duration: 3 Years (6 Semesters)
Credits: 40 (for core Sociology Major papers; total B.A. degree credits under NEP 2020 are typically 120-132) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 101 | Introduction to Sociology (समाजशास्त्र का परिचय) - Paper I | Core (Major) | 4 | Sociology: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Relationship with other Social Sciences, Basic Concepts: Society, Community, Association, Institution, Socialization, Culture, Social Control, Social Stratification: Class, Status, Power, Caste, Social Change: Meaning, Factors, Theories |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 102 | Basic Sociological Concepts (आधारभूत समाजशास्त्रीय अवधारणाएँ) - Paper II | Core (Major) | 4 | Social Groups: Primary, Secondary, In-group, Out-group, Social Structure, Status and Role, Family, Marriage, Kinship: Forms, Functions, Changes, Religion, Education, Economy, Polity: Sociological Perspectives, Social System, Social Action |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 203 | Methods of Social Research (सामाजिक अनुसंधान पद्धतियाँ) - Paper III | Core (Major) | 4 | Social Research: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Research Design: Types, Steps, Data Collection: Observation, Interview, Questionnaire, Schedule, Sampling: Types, Importance, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| BA SOC MAJ 204 | Social Problems in India (भारत में सामाजिक समस्याएँ) - Paper IV | Core (Major) | 4 | Social Problem: Meaning, Nature, Causes, Poverty, Unemployment, Corruption, Drug Addiction, Alcoholism, Juvenile Delinquency, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Female Foeticide, Regionalism, Communalism, Casteism, Environmental Degradation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 205 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology (समाजशास्त्र में सैद्धान्तिक परिप्रेक्ष्य) - Paper V | Core (Major) | 4 | Positivism: August Comte, Evolutionary Theory: Herbert Spencer, Structural-Functionalism: Emile Durkheim, Talcott Parsons, Conflict Theory: Karl Marx, Ralf Dahrendorf, Symbolic Interactionism: G.H. Mead, Herbert Blumer, Phenomenology |
| BA SOC MAJ 206 | Indian Society: Structure and Change (भारतीय समाज: संरचना एवं परिवर्तन) - Paper VI | Core (Major) | 4 | Major Components of Indian Social Structure: Caste, Class, Tribe, Unity in Diversity: Regional, Linguistic, Religious, Social Institutions: Family, Marriage, Kinship in India, Social Change in India: Westernization, Modernization, Sanskritization, Social Movements in India |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 307 | Classical Sociological Thinkers (शास्त्रीय समाजशास्त्रीय विचारक) - Paper VII | Core (Major) | 4 | Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Authority, Bureaucracy, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation, Vilfredo Pareto: Logical and Non-Logical Action, Circulations of Elites |
| BA SOC MAJ 308 | Rural Sociology (ग्रामीण समाजशास्त्र) - Paper VIII | Core (Major) | 4 | Rural Sociology: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Importance, Rural Social Structure: Caste, Class, Family, Kinship, Rural Economy: Land Reforms, Green Revolution, Rural Leadership, Power Structure, Rural Development Programs in India, Panchayati Raj |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA SOC MAJ 309 | Modern Sociological Thinkers (आधुनिक समाजशास्त्रीय विचारक) - Paper IX | Core (Major) | 4 | Talcott Parsons: Social System, Pattern Variables, AGIL Model, Robert K. Merton: Manifest and Latent Functions, Middle Range Theories, George Homans: Exchange Theory, Erving Goffman: Dramaturgy, Presentation of Self, Jürgen Habermas: Communicative Action |
| BA SOC MAJ 310 | Urban Sociology (नगरीय समाजशास्त्र) - Paper X | Core (Major) | 4 | Urban Sociology: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Urbanization Process, Characteristics of Urban Community, Theories of Urban Growth: Concentric Zone, Sector, Multiple Nuclei, Social Problems in Urban Areas: Poverty, Slums, Crime, Urban Planning and Development in India |
| BA SOC PROJ 311 | Project/Dissertation / Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | Project/Elective | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
