

B-A-HONS in Sociology at University of Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.A. (Hons.) Sociology program at University of Delhi focuses on a systematic study of human society, social behavior, patterns of social relationships, interaction, and culture. It delves into the complexities of Indian society, its institutions, changes, and challenges. The program aims to equip students with critical analytical skills to understand societal structures and dynamics, relevant for diverse fields in India that require socio-cultural insight and research capabilities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds (humanities, science, commerce) seeking entry into social research, policy analysis, development work, journalism, and human resources. It also caters to individuals passionate about understanding societal issues, human behavior, and contributing to social change. Aspiring civil servants and those interested in postgraduate studies in social sciences will also find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in NGOs, think tanks, government social welfare departments, market research firms, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and media organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters critical thinking, research skills, and ethical understanding, highly valued in various Indian companies and public sector roles, aligning with growth trajectories in social impact and analytical professions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Sociological Imagination- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core sociological concepts by connecting classroom learning to everyday observations and current events in India. Read newspapers critically, watch documentaries, and discuss social issues with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Sociology textbooks, frontline.thehindu.com, EPW (Economic & Political Weekly), Documentaries on Indian social issues
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and contextual understanding essential for social research, policy analysis, and journalism roles.
Enhance Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and academically sound writing skills. Participate in workshops on essay writing, referencing styles (e.g., APA/MLA), and basic literature review. Start practicing short research assignments.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, University writing centers, Peer feedback
Career Connection
Essential for all professional roles requiring report writing, project proposals, and research documentation.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage the Generic Elective (GE) options to explore allied disciplines like Psychology, Economics, or History. This broadens perspective and helps identify potential interdisciplinary career paths or advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
DU''''s common GE course lists, College professors from other departments, University library resources
Career Connection
Prepares for roles requiring multidisciplinary approaches, such as urban planning, development studies, or public policy.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Core Research Methodology Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen understanding of both quantitative and qualitative research methods. Actively participate in practical exercises, design small-scale surveys, conduct interviews, and learn data analysis basics using software.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R tutorials, Interview guides, Survey platforms (e.g., Google Forms), Field visit opportunities (if available)
Career Connection
Directly relevant for careers in market research, social research, data analysis, and program evaluation in NGOs and government.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Think Tanks- (Semester 4-5)
Apply for internships with local NGOs, social welfare organizations, or think tanks focusing on Indian social issues. Gain practical exposure to fieldwork, data collection, and report writing in real-world settings.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites (e.g., Goonj, Salaam Baalak Trust), University placement cell
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience, builds a professional network, and enhances employability for development sector and research roles.
Participate in Debates and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage in departmental and college-level debates, seminars, and paper presentations on contemporary sociological themes in India. This enhances public speaking, argumentation, and critical discussion skills.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Departmental societies, Academic journals (e.g., Economic & Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Develops communication and analytical skills crucial for advocacy, journalism, policy roles, and higher education.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Independent Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
For the final year, undertake an independent research project or dissertation on a chosen sociological topic, applying learned methodologies. This could be part of a DSE course or an extracurricular initiative.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, University library databases, Statistical software, Field research
Career Connection
Showcases advanced research capabilities, crucial for postgraduate applications and research-oriented careers.
Prepare for Higher Studies or Civil Services- (Semester 6)
Identify potential postgraduate programs in India or abroad, or begin preparing for competitive exams like the UPSC Civil Services Examination (optional Sociology paper). Focus on consolidating knowledge and practicing analytical answers.
Tools & Resources
University career guidance cell, UPSC portals, Online coaching resources, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Direct pathway to specialized academic careers, public administration, or policy-making roles in India.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 6)
Curate a portfolio of academic achievements, research papers, internships, and project work. Attend career fairs, network with alumni, and build professional connections on platforms like LinkedIn.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Professional conferences, Career workshops
Career Connection
Facilitates job search, opens doors to mentorship, and helps secure desirable placements in various sectors across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board. Admission is based on scores obtained in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG). Required CUET subject combination: Any one Language from List A + Any two subjects from List B1 + Any one subject from either List B1 or List B2 OR Any one Language from List A + Any one subject from List B1 + General Test. Merit determined by the best CUET (UG) score from these combinations.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 116 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOGC501 | Sociology of Kinship | Core (DSC) | 4 | Family and Household, Marriage Systems and Types, Descent and Alliance Theories, Kinship in Contemporary India, Changes in Family Structure, Reproduction and New Kinship Forms |
| SOGC502 | Urban Sociology | Core (DSC) | 4 | Theories of Urbanization, Urban Growth and Planning, Urban Poverty and Inequality, Informal Sector and Livelihoods, Smart Cities and Infrastructure, Urban Culture and Identity |
| SOGE501A | Sociology of Health | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Choice based | 4 | Social Determinants of Health, Health, Illness and Society, Medical Systems and Practices, Public Health Interventions, Health Policy and Governance, Global Health Issues |
| SOGE502A | Sociology of Education | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Choice based | 4 | Education and Social Change, Inequality in Education, Curriculum and Pedagogy, Higher Education in India, Education Policy and Reform, Vocational Training and Skill Development |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOGC601 | Sociology of Gender | Core (DSC) | 4 | Gender as a Social Construct, Patriarchy and Feminist Theories, Gender Roles and Socialization, Gender and Development, Women''''s Movements in India, Sexuality and Identity |
| SOGC602 | Rural Sociology | Core (DSC) | 4 | Agrarian Society and Structure, Rural Development Initiatives, Rural-Urban Migration, Poverty and Livelihoods in Rural India, Land Reforms and Green Revolution, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| SOGE601A | Sociology of Mass Media | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Choice based | 4 | Media Theories and Society, Role of Media in Social Change, New Media and Digital Culture, Globalization and Media Imperialism, Media Ethics and Regulations, Public Sphere and Media Representation |
| SOGE602A | Industrial Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) - Choice based | 4 | Industrialization and Society, Labor, Work and Management, Industrial Relations and Trade Unions, Informal Sector and Gig Economy, Automation and Future of Work, Corporate Social Responsibility |




