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MA in Sociology at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research in Humanities, Arts and Commerce
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research in Humanities, Arts and Commerce Anand?
This MA Sociology program at Shree J. M. Patel Institute of Studies and Research focuses on understanding complex social structures, processes, and challenges in India and globally. It delves into classical and modern sociological theories, rigorous research methodologies, and specialized areas like Indian society, marginalized groups, and development. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and empirical analysis relevant to India''''s diverse socio-economic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, humanities, or related fields seeking entry into research, academia, or social work. It also suits working professionals from NGOs, government agencies, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives looking to deepen their analytical skills. Individuals passionate about social justice, policy analysis, and community development will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India as social researchers, policy analysts, development professionals, and NGO workers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 7-12 LPA with experience. Opportunities exist in government departments, think tanks, international development organizations, and CSR divisions of Indian companies, fostering growth trajectories in social impact and advocacy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with classical and modern sociological theories. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts, relating them to contemporary Indian social issues. Utilize library resources and online academic journals to expand understanding beyond textbook content.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL lectures on Sociology, IGNOU study materials, JSTOR, Google Scholar, institutional library
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in research and policy, enabling graduates to interpret social phenomena critically and design effective interventions.
Master Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all practical sessions for quantitative and qualitative research. Practice data collection techniques through small-scale surveys or interviews within the local community. Learn statistical software basics (e.g., SPSS, R) and qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo free trials).
Tools & Resources
SPSS tutorials, R programming for beginners, local community engagement, research project guidelines
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in market research, policy evaluation, and social impact assessment roles, making graduates employable in diverse sectors.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on critically analyzing academic papers and sociological texts. Practice summarizing arguments, identifying biases, and constructing well-reasoned essays. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine academic writing style and clarity.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, academic writing workshops, peer review sessions, university writing center
Career Connection
Excellent communication and analytical skills are essential for report writing, grant applications, and scholarly publications, vital for research and advocacy positions.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Robust Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 3-4 (especially Semester 4))
Choose a research topic aligned with your career interests and engage diligently in the dissertation process. Work closely with your supervisor, focusing on rigorous methodology, data analysis, and clear academic writing. This is your capstone project to demonstrate expertise.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, research databases, statistical software, supervisor mentorship, university research ethics committee
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a powerful portfolio piece for research positions, higher studies (M.Phil/Ph.D.), and demonstrates advanced analytical and independent research capabilities.
Gain Practical Field Exposure- (Semester 3-4 (during breaks or alongside studies))
Seek extended internships (1-3 months) with NGOs, social development organizations, government agencies, or CSR departments that align with your specialized interests (e.g., urban, rural, health, environment). Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world social issues.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, direct organizational outreach, networking with alumni
Career Connection
Practical experience is paramount for employability in the social sector, providing hands-on skills, industry contacts, and a clear understanding of professional roles.
Prepare for Career Opportunities and Higher Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops. Explore options for further academic pursuits like M.Phil or Ph.D. if interested in academia. Network with alumni and professionals in your desired field.
Tools & Resources
Career services office, online job portals (Naukri, Indeed), LinkedIn for networking, university alumni association
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-graduation, whether into a professional role or advanced academic research, leveraging the MA degree effectively.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized university
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS01CSOC21 | Classical Sociological Thinkers-I (Karl Marx & Emile Durkheim) | Core | 4 | Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Capitalism and its critiques, Collective Consciousness and Anomie, Methodology and Epistemology of Marx and Durkheim |
| PS01CSOC22 | Research Methodology-I (Quantitative) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Research, Scientific Method, Types of Research: Pure, Applied, Exploratory, Descriptive, Research Design: Steps, Types, Data Sources, Sampling: Types, Techniques, Size Determination, Quantitative Data Collection: Questionnaire, Schedule, Interview |
| PS01CSOC23 | Sociology of Indian Society-I | Core | 4 | Unity and Diversity in Indian Society, Caste System: Origin, Features, Changes, Debates, Tribal Society: Features, Classification, Problems, Policies, Agrarian Social Structure: Land Reforms, Rural Development, Rural-Urban Linkages and Transformation |
| PS01ESOC24 | Modern Sociological Theories-I | Elective | 4 | Structural Functionalism: Parsons, Merton, Conflict Theory: Dahrendorf, Coser, Symbolic Interactionism: Mead, Blumer, Goffman, Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology, Feminist Perspectives in Sociology |
| PS01ESOC25 (Option A) | Sociology of Marginalized Groups - I | Elective | 4 | Concept of Marginalization, Social Exclusion, Caste as a System of Exclusion, Gender and Patriarchy, Gendered Division of Labour, Disability as a Social Construct, Rights of Disabled Persons, Religious Minorities and their Challenges |
| PS01ESOC25 (Option B) | Sociology of Development - I | Elective | 4 | Meaning and Indicators of Development, Underdevelopment, Theories of Development: Modernization, Dependency, Sustainable Development: Concept, Goals, Challenges, Role of State and Market in Development, Development Planning in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS02CSOC21 | Classical Sociological Thinkers-II (Max Weber & Vilfredo Pareto) | Core | 4 | Max Weber: Social Action, Ideal Types, Bureaucracy, Authority: Traditional, Charismatic, Legal-Rational, Protestant Ethic and the Spirit of Capitalism, Vilfredo Pareto: Logical and Non-Logical Actions, Residues and Derivations, Circulation of Elites |
| PS02CSOC22 | Research Methodology-II (Qualitative) | Core | 4 | Qualitative Research: Features, Types, Ethical Issues, Methods: Ethnography, Participant Observation, Case Study, Interviewing Techniques: In-depth, Focused, Group, Content Analysis and Narrative Analysis, Data Analysis in Qualitative Research, Report Writing |
| PS02CSOC23 | Sociology of Indian Society-II | Core | 4 | Social Movements in India: Peasant, Tribal, Women, Dalit, Religion and Society in India: Secularism, Communalism, Family and Kinship: Types, Changes, Contemporary Issues, Education System: Structure, Challenges, Policies, Population Dynamics and Demography in India |
| PS02ESOC24 | Modern Sociological Theories-II | Elective | 4 | Critical Theory: Frankfurt School, Habermas, Post-structuralism and Post-modernism: Foucault, Derrida, Theories of Agency and Structure: Giddens, Bourdieu, Rational Choice Theory and Network Theory, Globalization and Transnationalism |
| PS02ESOC25 (Option A) | Sociology of Marginalized Groups - II | Elective | 4 | Anti-Caste Movements and Dalit Identity, Women''''s Empowerment and Feminist Movements in India, LGBTQ+ Rights and Social Acceptance, Indigenous Peoples'''' Rights and Self-Determination, Policies and Programs for Social Inclusion |
| PS02ESOC25 (Option B) | Sociology of Development - II | Elective | 4 | Globalization and its Impact on Development, Rural Development: Programs, Challenges, Panchayati Raj, Urbanization, Slums, and Urban Poverty, Environmental Sociology and Sustainable Livelihoods, Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS03CSOC21 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Demography, Sources of Data, Population Composition and Characteristics, Fertility: Concepts, Trends, Determinants, Mortality: Concepts, Trends, Life Expectancy, Migration: Types, Causes, Consequences |
| PS03CSOC22 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Concept of Urbanization, Theories of Urban Growth, Urban Planning and Development in India, Urban Social Problems: Poverty, Crime, Pollution, Slums and Squatter Settlements: Causes, Impacts, Rural-Urban Fringe and Transformation |
| PS03CSOC23 | Criminology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Criminology, Theories of Crime, Social Deviance and Social Control, Types of Crime: White-Collar, Cyber, Organized, Criminal Justice System: Police, Judiciary, Prisons, Punishment and Rehabilitation of Offenders |
| PS03ESOC24 | Environmental Sociology | Elective | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction, Ecological Modernization, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change and its Social Implications, Sustainable Development and Environmental Policy, Environmental Justice and Equity |
| PS03ESOC25 (Option A) | Industrial Sociology - I | Elective | 4 | Industrialization and its Social Consequences, Theories of Industrial Society: Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Labour Relations and Industrial Disputes, Work Organization and Management Styles, Trade Unions: Functions, Challenges, Role |
| PS03ESOC25 (Option B) | Political Sociology - I | Elective | 4 | Power and Authority: Concepts, Types, Legitimacy, State and Society: Theories of the State, Welfare State, Political Participation: Voting, Activism, Social Movements, Political Elites and Masses, Leadership, Globalization and its Impact on Politics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS04CSOC21 | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Rural Social Structure: Caste, Class, Power, Agrarian Change and Land Relations, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functions, Challenges, Rural Development Programs and Policies in India, Rural-Urban Migration and its Impacts |
| PS04CSOC22 | Sociology of Health | Core | 4 | Health and Illness as Social Constructs, Social Determinants of Health: Poverty, Gender, Education, Healthcare Systems: Traditional, Modern, Pluralism, Public Health Issues in India: Malnutrition, Sanitation, Medicalization and Health Policy |
| PS04CSOC23 | Project Work/Dissertation (Internal/External) | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification and Literature Review, Methodology: Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing: Structure, Referencing, Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Social Research |
| PS04ESOC24 | Sociology of Science & Technology | Elective | 4 | Science as a Social Institution, Scientific Community, Technology and Society: Impact, Diffusion, Resistance, Social Implications of New Technologies: AI, Biotechnology, Digital Divide and Information Society, Ethics in Science and Technology |
| PS04ESOC25 (Option A) | Industrial Sociology - II | Elective | 4 | Industrial Conflict and Resolution Mechanisms, Human Resource Management and Organizational Culture, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Informal Sector and Gig Economy, Future of Work and Technological Changes |
| PS04ESOC25 (Option B) | Political Sociology - II | Elective | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Social Movements and Political Change, Nationalism and Nation-State Formation, Civil Society and Public Sphere, Democratic Governance and Challenges in India |
