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M-A in Sociology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.A. Sociology program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and social change within the Indian and global context. It emphasizes critical thinking and rigorous research methodologies, preparing students to analyze complex social phenomena. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled sociologists in research, policy-making, and community development across various sectors in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s degree holders with a keen interest in social issues, public policy, and human behavior, especially those seeking entry into social research, non-profit organizations, or government roles in India. It also caters to working professionals in fields like human resources, journalism, or public administration looking to deepen their sociological understanding for career advancement or transition into social sector roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social researcher, policy analyst, community development officer, NGO worker, or academician. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 8-15 LPA with experience. The program equips students with analytical and empirical skills, aligning with the needs of think tanks, research institutions, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Sociological Theories and Research Methods- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to internalize foundational sociological theories (classical and contemporary) and grasp the nuances of diverse research methodologies. Actively engage in classroom discussions, complete all assignments thoroughly, and utilize laboratory sessions to gain practical experience with statistical software.
Tools & Resources
University library, recommended textbooks, academic journals, SPSS/R for lab work, peer study groups, departmental tutorials
Career Connection
A robust theoretical and methodological understanding is the bedrock for any sociological career, enabling students to conduct rigorous research and provide informed analysis, highly valued by research organizations and think tanks in India.
Cultivate Critical Thinking and Interdisciplinary Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of critically evaluating social phenomena by questioning assumptions and exploring multiple perspectives. Read widely beyond the prescribed syllabus, including Indian newspapers, policy documents, and non-sociological works that offer insights into societal dynamics.
Tools & Resources
Public libraries, online news portals, government reports, interdisciplinary seminars, university discussion forums
Career Connection
Strong critical thinking and an interdisciplinary outlook are crucial for analyzing complex societal challenges, formulating effective policy recommendations, and contributing meaningfully to public discourse in India.
Actively Participate in Academic and Departmental Events- (Semester 1-2)
Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the Department of Social Sciences or the wider university. Volunteer for departmental initiatives or student societies related to social sciences to build soft skills and gain exposure.
Tools & Resources
Departmental bulletin boards, university event calendars, faculty advisors, student social science clubs
Career Connection
Early involvement fosters networking with faculty and peers, provides practical insights into sociological careers, and helps develop presentation and organizational skills, which are assets for future roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Selection of Professional Electives- (Semester 3)
Thoughtfully choose professional electives that align with your specific career interests or areas of deeper sociological inquiry. Engage deeply with the content of these specialized courses to develop expertise in a chosen sub-field of sociology.
Tools & Resources
Faculty consultation, alumni networks, career counselling services, industry reports on sociology specializations
Career Connection
Specializing through electives helps carve out a niche, making you a more attractive candidate for targeted roles in areas like environmental sociology, media studies, or criminology within India.
Seek Internship or Fieldwork Opportunities- (Semester 3)
Actively look for internships with NGOs, research institutions, government departments, or CSR initiatives to gain practical experience. If formal internships are unavailable, engage in guided fieldwork as part of a course or an independent faculty-supervised project.
Tools & Resources
University career services, online internship portals (e.g., Internshala), faculty contacts, professional networking events
Career Connection
Practical experience is invaluable for understanding the application of sociological knowledge in real-world Indian settings, enhancing your resume and improving your chances of placement.
Develop Advanced Data Analysis and Reporting Skills- (Semester 3)
Build upon foundational statistical skills by exploring advanced data analysis techniques and mastering data visualization tools. Focus on effective academic and professional report writing, ensuring clarity, precision, and ethical reporting of findings.
Tools & Resources
Advanced SPSS tutorials, R or Python for data analysis, academic writing workshops, peer review of written work
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced data analysis and clear report writing are critical for roles in research, policy formulation, and impact assessment, making you highly valuable to organizations in India.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Quality Master''''s Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time and effort to your Master''''s Project Work. Choose a topic of genuine interest, conduct thorough research, meticulously analyze data, and produce a well-structured, insightful thesis. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
University research ethics committee, academic writing centers, statistical software, relevant databases, faculty supervision
Career Connection
A strong project serves as a capstone, showcasing your research capabilities, analytical prowess, and ability to contribute original knowledge, which is highly regarded by potential employers and for further academic pursuits.
Prepare for Career Transition and Placements- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell. Prepare a compelling resume and cover letter tailored to specific job roles. Practice interview skills, participate in mock interviews, and attend career fairs. Network proactively with alumni and industry professionals.
Tools & Resources
Career services, LinkedIn, placement brochures, alumni association, online interview preparation platforms
Career Connection
Focused preparation ensures you are interview-ready and can articulate your skills and aspirations effectively, maximizing your chances of securing a desirable position in the Indian job market.
Develop a Professional Online Presence and Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Create a professional LinkedIn profile highlighting your academic achievements, research projects, and skills. Consider building a small online portfolio (e.g., a simple blog or website) to showcase your research papers, analytical reports, or fieldwork experiences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, personal website builders, GitHub (for data analysis projects), professional networking platforms
Career Connection
A strong online presence enhances your visibility to recruiters and potential collaborators, demonstrating your commitment to the field and providing easy access to your work for prospective employers in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass with minimum of 50% in any Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 91 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCO23S101 | Classical Sociological Theory | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte, Emile Durkheim, Max Weber, Karl Marx, Georg Simmel |
| PCO23S102 | Methods of Sociological Research | Core | 4 | Scientific Method, Research Design, Data Collection, Qualitative Methods, Quantitative Methods |
| PCO23S103 | Society, Culture and Personality | Core | 4 | Socialization, Culture and Society, Self and Identity, Deviance, Social Control |
| PCO23S104 | Rural and Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Rural-Urban Divide, Urbanization, Rural Development, Slums, Migration |
| PCO23S105 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Population Composition, Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Policies |
| PCO23SL01 | Research Methodology Lab | Core | 2 | SPSS, Data Entry, Data Analysis, Hypothesis Testing, Report Writing |
| PCO23GE01 | General Elective – I | General Elective | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCO23S201 | Contemporary Sociological Theories | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism, Conflict Theory, Symbolic Interactionism, Postmodernism, Feminist Theories |
| PCO23S202 | Statistics for Social Sciences | Core | 4 | Probability, Measures of Central Tendency, Correlation, Regression, Hypothesis Testing |
| PCO23S203 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Underdevelopment, Sustainable Development, Globalization, Social Change |
| PCO23S204 | Sociology of Education | Core | 4 | Education and Society, Social Inequality, Education Policy, Functionalist Perspective, Conflict Perspective |
| PCO23S205 | Industrial Sociology | Core | 4 | Work and Organization, Industrial Relations, Labor Movements, Globalization of Work, Human Resource Management |
| PCO23SL02 | Statistical Package for Social Sciences Lab | Core | 2 | Advanced SPSS, Multivariate Analysis, Data Visualization, Interpretation of Results, Research Report |
| PCO23GE02 | General Elective – II | General Elective | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCO23S301 | Indian Social System | Core | 4 | Caste System, Family and Kinship, Religion, Social Stratification, Rural-Urban Dynamics |
| PCO23S302 | Social Psychology | Core | 4 | Social Cognition, Attitudes, Group Dynamics, Prejudice and Discrimination, Aggression |
| PCO23S303 | Gender and Society | Core | 4 | Gender Roles, Patriarchy, Feminist Perspectives, Gender Equality, Women''''s Movements |
| PCO23S304 | Sociology of Health | Core | 4 | Health and Illness, Medical Sociology, Health Disparities, Healthcare Systems, Public Health |
| PCO23PE01 | Sociology of Environment (Example Professional Elective) | Professional Elective | 3 | Environmental Issues, Sustainable Development, Environmental Movements, Climate Change, Green Sociology |
| PCO23PE02 | Sociology of Mass Communication (Example Professional Elective) | Professional Elective | 3 | Media Effects, Mass Media, Social Media, Public Opinion, Cultural Studies |
| PCO23PE03 | Sociology of Crime (Example Professional Elective) | Professional Elective | 3 | Criminological Theories, Social Deviance, Punishment, Criminal Justice System, Victimology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCO23S401 | Social Movements | Core | 4 | Theories of Social Movements, Collective Behavior, Peasant Movements, Women''''s Movements, Environmental Movements |
| PCO23PE04 | Political Sociology (Example Professional Elective) | Professional Elective | 3 | Power and Authority, State and Society, Political Participation, Ideologies, Global Politics |
| PCO23PE05 | Visual Sociology (Example Professional Elective) | Professional Elective | 3 | Visual Culture, Photography, Film, Representation, Media Analysis |
| PCO23PW01 | Project Work | Project | 8 | Research Proposal, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation |
