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BA in Sociology at Shri Kalavara Varadaraja M. Shetty Government First Grade College
Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Shri Kalavara Varadaraja M. Shetty Government First Grade College Udupi?
This BA Sociology program at Shree Kalavara Varadaraj M Shetty Government First Grade College, Udupi, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human society, social behavior, and cultural patterns. In the Indian context, it delves into the complexities of social structures like caste, class, gender, and religion, offering critical perspectives on contemporary social issues. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and empirical research, preparing students for analytical roles in a diverse and rapidly evolving social landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in understanding societal dynamics, social justice, and human interactions. It suits individuals aspiring to work in social work, public administration, civil services, policy research, journalism, or academia. Students with a background in arts, humanities, or even science, who possess strong analytical and communication skills, will find this program enriching and highly relevant for careers addressing India''''s social challenges.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong critical thinking, research, and communication skills, highly valued in various sectors. In India, career paths include roles in NGOs, social development organizations, government agencies (UPSC, KPSC, etc.), market research, human resources, and media. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-15 lakhs or more for experienced professionals in policy or research roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Sociological Vocabulary- (Semester 1-2)
Consistently read and define core sociological concepts (e.g., society, culture, socialization, stratification) from textbooks and academic articles. Maintain a personal glossary to aid understanding and retention.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks (Class 11 & 12), Basic sociology dictionaries, Online academic glossaries like Sociology Guide
Career Connection
A strong foundational vocabulary is crucial for understanding advanced topics, excelling in exams, and articulating complex social ideas in future research or professional roles.
Engage in Critical Current Affairs Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and watch credible news debates. Relate current social events (e.g., caste issues, gender violence, economic disparities) to sociological theories learned in class.
Tools & Resources
Daily newspapers, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Develops analytical skills vital for civil services exams, journalism, policy analysis, and understanding India''''s socio-political landscape.
Participate in Departmental Discussions & Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively attend and contribute to departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures. Form study groups with peers to discuss challenging concepts and different perspectives on social issues to deepen understanding.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Department WhatsApp groups, Library resources, online academic forums
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, preparing students for academic presentations and team-based professional work.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Basic Social Research Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Learn to formulate research questions, conduct simple surveys or interviews, and analyze basic qualitative/quantitative data. Volunteer for small research projects within the college or local NGOs to gain practical experience.
Tools & Resources
Introductory statistics software (e.g., PSPP, basic Excel), Google Forms for surveys, Observation guides, interview protocols
Career Connection
Essential for roles in market research, policy analysis, NGO program evaluation, and higher studies in social sciences, providing hands-on data handling abilities.
Undertake Local Community Engagement/Internships- (Semester 4-5)
Seek out short-term internships or volunteer opportunities with local NGOs, social welfare departments, or community development projects in Udupi or nearby areas. Gain firsthand experience of social issues and practical fieldwork.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell/career guidance, Local NGO directories, Online volunteer platforms like India Cares
Career Connection
Provides practical exposure, builds professional networks, and enhances understanding of on-ground social realities, invaluable for social work and development sector careers.
Explore Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 3-5)
Read books or take online courses on topics related to Sociology but from different disciplines like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, or History. This broadens understanding, especially for civil services preparation.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Swayam, Coursera, Khan Academy, College library resources beyond sociology section, MOOC platforms
Career Connection
Fosters holistic understanding, crucial for comprehensive problem-solving and excelling in competitive exams like UPSC, which require interdisciplinary knowledge.
Advanced Stage
Specialize Through Electives & Dissertation/Project- (Semester 5-6 (for DSEs), Semester 7-8 (for Honours/Research))
Carefully choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with career interests (e.g., Industrial Sociology for HR, Rural Sociology for rural development). For the 4th year (Honours/Research), focus on a robust dissertation or research project in a chosen sub-field.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software for data analysis (if needed), research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a specific sub-field, making graduates more attractive for specialized roles or for pursuing advanced degrees and research careers.
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams/Higher Studies- (Semester 6 (and beyond for 4th year))
Dedicate time for rigorous preparation for civil services (UPSC, KPSC), banking, or other government examinations. For higher studies, prepare for entrance exams for MA/PhD programs in Sociology or related fields.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, online test series, Previous year question papers, specific subject guides for competitive exams, career counselors
Career Connection
Directly leads to entry into esteemed public service roles or paves the way for a career in academia and advanced research, fulfilling aspirational career goals.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 5-6 (and beyond for 4th year))
Attend career fairs, alumni meets, and connect with professionals working in fields of interest (NGOs, government, research) via LinkedIn or college networks. Seek mentorship and career guidance.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, college alumni association, Career guidance cell, professional networking events
Career Connection
Opens doors to internship opportunities, job leads, and valuable career advice, aiding in smooth transition from academia to professional life.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in Pre-University Course (PUC) or 12th Standard examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 Semesters) for Bachelor''''s Degree; 4 years (8 Semesters) for Bachelor''''s Degree (Honours/Honours with Research)
Credits: 120 (for 3-year BA Degree) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 101 | Introduction to Sociology | Major Core | 4 | Origin and Development of Sociology, Basic Sociological Concepts, Culture and Socialization, Social Groups and Interaction, Major Social Institutions (Family, Religion, Economy, Polity) |
| AECC 1.1 | Language I (Kannada/other Indian Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Basic Communication Skills, Literary Appreciation, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading and Writing Competence, Cultural Context of Language |
| AECC 1.2 | Language II (English) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | English Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Basic Writing Skills, Communicative English, Introduction to English Literature |
| SEC 1.1 | Digital Fluency | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basics of Computer Systems, Internet and Web Technologies, Digital Communication Tools, Cyber Hygiene and Security, Digital Literacy and Applications |
| OE 1.1 | Open Elective - I | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 102 | Sociological Theories | Major Core | 4 | Positivism and Auguste Comte, Herbert Spencer and Social Evolution, Emile Durkheim: Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Max Weber: Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Conflict |
| AECC 2.1 | Language I (Kannada/other Indian Language) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Advanced Communication Skills, Literary Analysis, Creative Writing, Translation and Interpretation, Regional Literary Contexts |
| AECC 2.2 | Language II (English) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Advanced English Grammar, Essay Writing and Composition, Critical Reading and Analysis, Public Speaking and Presentation, Literary Forms and Genres |
| SEC 2.1 | Environmental Studies | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Control, Natural Resources and Conservation, Global Environmental Issues, Sustainable Development |
| OE 2.1 | Open Elective - II | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 201 | Social Stratification | Major Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Social Stratification, Dimensions of Stratification (Class, Status, Power), Social Mobility and Inequality, Poverty and Social Exclusion, Caste, Tribe, Gender and Inequality in India |
| AECC 3.1 | Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Structure of Indian Government (Legislature, Executive, Judiciary), Federalism in India, Constitutional Amendments and Landmark Cases |
| VC 3.1 | Vocational Course - I | Vocational Course | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from various vocational streams |
| OE 3.1 | Open Elective - III | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
| SEC 3.1 | Communication Skills | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Active Listening and Empathy, Presentation Skills, Group Discussion Techniques, Interview Preparation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 202 | Social Research Methods | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Social Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Observation, Interview, Case Study), Sampling Techniques, Introduction to Data Analysis (Qualitative and Quantitative), Research Ethics |
| AECC 4.1 | Human Rights and Gender | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Concept of Human Rights and UDHR, Human Rights in India, Gender as a Social Construct, Gender Equality and Women''''s Rights, Challenges to Human Rights in Contemporary Society |
| VC 4.1 | Vocational Course - II | Vocational Course | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from various vocational streams |
| OE 4.1 | Open Elective - IV | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
| SEC 4.1 | Academic Writing and Presentation | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Structure of Academic Essays and Reports, Referencing Styles and Plagiarism, Summarizing, Paraphrasing, and Synthesizing, Effective Presentation Techniques, Use of Visual Aids in Presentations |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 301 | Sociology of India | Major Core | 4 | Approaches to Studying Indian Society (Indological, Structural-Functional, Marxist), Caste System and its Transformations, Village Studies and Rural Social Structure, Religion, Family, and Kinship in India, Agrarian Social Structure, Industrialization and Urbanization |
| SOC 302 | Sociology of Development | Major Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Development, Modernization and Dependency Theories, Underdevelopment and Globalization, Sustainable Development and Environmental Concerns, Development Planning and Social Movements in India |
| DSE 3.1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (Sociology Elective) | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Student choice from options like Industrial Sociology, Rural Sociology, Urban Sociology, Sociology of Health |
| OE 5.1 | Open Elective - V | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 303 | Social Problems in India | Major Core | 4 | Concept of Social Problem and Social Disorganization, Poverty, Unemployment, and Inequality, Crime, Juvenile Delinquency, and Corruption, Drug Abuse, Environmental Degradation, Communalism, Regionalism, and Challenges to Family |
| SOC 304 | Gender and Society | Major Core | 4 | Concepts of Sex and Gender, Theories of Gender and Patriarchy, Gender Socialization and Identity, Gender Inequality and Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Work, Media, and Politics |
| DSE 3.2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (Sociology Elective) | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Student choice from options like Political Sociology, Sociology of Religion, Sociology of Education, Population Studies |
| OE 6.1 | Open Elective - VI | Open Elective | 3 | Specific subjects depend on student choice from other disciplines |
