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M-A in Sociology at Vidyarthi Mahavidyalay, Jagdeeshpur Bardeeha, Kushinagar
Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Vidyarthi Mahavidyalay, Jagdeeshpur Bardeeha, Kushinagar Kushinagar?
This M.A. Sociology program at Vidyarthi Mahavidyalay focuses on understanding social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behavior within diverse Indian contexts. It equips students with analytical tools to critically examine contemporary societal issues. The program emphasizes theoretical foundations alongside practical research skills, preparing graduates for roles in social analysis, policy, and community development across various sectors in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking a deeper understanding of society. It also caters to aspiring researchers, social workers, and policy analysts passionate about addressing Indian social challenges. Individuals looking to contribute to public service, NGOs, or academic pursuits in sociology will find this course highly rewarding, building a strong foundation for advanced studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including social research, NGO management, policy analysis, and journalism, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from INR 3-5 LPA. Experienced professionals can command significantly higher packages. The program fosters critical thinking and empathy, crucial for roles in government social welfare departments, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and academic institutions, supporting national development goals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Sociological Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand classical and modern sociological theories, their proponents, and their relevance to Indian society. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and engage in critical analysis of readings.
Tools & Resources
DDUGU prescribed textbooks, NPTEL lectures on Sociology, online academic journals, peer discussion groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for research, policy analysis, and academic roles, enabling you to frame social issues effectively and contribute meaningfully.
Develop Core Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in research methods classes, focusing on practical application of data collection techniques like observation, interviews, and questionnaire design. Practice basic statistical analysis using available software or manual methods.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (if available), Microsoft Excel for data organization, DDUGU library resources for methodology texts, local NGO survey reports
Career Connection
Proficiency in research methods is highly valued in social research organizations, government planning bodies, and market research firms for data-driven decision making.
Engage with Rural and Urban Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement coursework in Rural and Urban Sociology by undertaking small field visits to local villages or urban slums, observing social structures and development challenges firsthand. Document your observations and discuss them with faculty.
Tools & Resources
Local government reports on rural/urban development, news articles, documentary films on Indian social issues, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Direct exposure provides practical insights, invaluable for careers in community development, social work, and urban planning, allowing you to bridge theory with ground realities.
Intermediate Stage
Analyze Contemporary Indian Social Issues- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically connect the theories learned to current events and social problems in India, such as caste dynamics, gender inequality, and environmental challenges. Write critical essays and participate in debates on these topics.
Tools & Resources
Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), academic journals focused on India (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), government policy documents, think tank reports
Career Connection
This develops analytical skills crucial for roles in policy advocacy, journalism, and academic research focusing on contemporary Indian society.
Participate in Departmental Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Attend and actively participate in all departmental seminars, guest lectures, and workshops. Seek opportunities to present your research ideas or paper summaries to gain public speaking and academic presentation experience.
Tools & Resources
Department notice boards, university event calendars, faculty invitations
Career Connection
Enhances networking with faculty and peers, improves communication skills, and provides exposure to diverse research areas, beneficial for higher studies or professional roles requiring presentations.
Undertake Mini Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
In addition to coursework, identify a specific local social issue and conduct a small-scale research project, applying the research methods and statistical tools learned. This could be a survey, case study, or content analysis.
Tools & Resources
Local community data, online survey tools, DDUGU library resources, mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Practical research experience is invaluable for securing internships and entry-level positions in research organizations, NGOs, and government agencies.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Choose a research topic of personal interest and conduct thorough, independent research for your compulsory project/dissertation. Focus on rigorous methodology, data analysis, and clear academic writing. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
DDUGU library, research databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), statistical software (if applicable), faculty supervisor
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for research jobs, PhD applications, and demonstrates advanced analytical and independent work capabilities.
Network and Explore Career Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Attend career fairs, workshops on resume building and interview skills. Connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in the social sector, NGOs, or government through LinkedIn or university events to explore job prospects.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university career services cell, alumni network, local job portals (Naukri.com, Indeed), NGO directories
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career preparation are vital for securing internships, job placements, and understanding industry demands in the competitive Indian job market.
Prepare for Higher Education or Civil Services- (Semester 4)
If aiming for M.Phil./Ph.D. or competitive exams like UPSC/State PSC, start dedicated preparation. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and optional sociology papers. Engage in mock tests and previous year paper analysis.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), online test series, previous year question papers, government publications (Yojana, Kurukshetra)
Career Connection
Strategic preparation during the final semester can significantly improve chances for entry into prestigious academic programs or highly sought-after government positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 101 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology-I (Classical) | Core | 4 | Auguste Comte (Positivism, Hierarchy of Sciences), Herbert Spencer (Social Evolution, Organismic Analogy), Emile Durkheim (Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide), Karl Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Conflict, Alienation), Max Weber (Social Action, Authority, Bureaucracy, Protestant Ethic) |
| SOC 102 | Research Methods in Sociology-I | Core | 4 | Social Research (Meaning, Nature, Types, Objectives), Research Design (Types, Components), Data Collection (Observation, Interview, Questionnaire, Schedule), Sampling (Types, Merits/Demerits), Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| SOC 103 | Rural Sociology | Core | 4 | Rural Sociology (Meaning, Nature, Scope), Rural Social Structure (Caste, Class, Power), Rural Economy (Agrarian Relations, Land Reforms), Rural Development (Panchayati Raj, Rural Development Programs), Social Change in Rural India |
| SOC 104 | Urban Sociology | Core | 4 | Urban Sociology (Meaning, Nature, Scope), Urbanization (Trends, Processes in India), Urban Social Structure (Family, Kinship, Religion), Urban Problems (Poverty, Crime, Pollution), Urban Planning and Governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 201 | Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology-II (Modern) | Core | 4 | Structural Functionalism (Parsons, Merton), Conflict Theory (Dahrendorf, Coser), Symbolic Interactionism (Mead, Blumer), Phenomenology and Ethnomethodology (Schutz, Garfinkel), Postmodernism (Foucault, Derrida) |
| SOC 202 | Research Methods in Sociology-II (Statistics) | Core | 4 | Basic Statistics (Frequency Distribution, Measures of Central Tendency), Measures of Dispersion (Range, Standard Deviation), Correlation (Pearson, Spearman), Regression Analysis (Linear Regression), Hypothesis Testing (Chi-Square Test, T-Test) |
| SOC 203 | Sociology of Development | Core | 4 | Development (Concepts, Theories), Underdevelopment (Colonialism, Dependency), Models of Development (Modernization, World Systems), Sustainable Development (Environment, Equity), Globalization and Development in India |
| SOC 204 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Sociology (Meaning, Scope), Power (Theories, Types), State (Nature, Functions), Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Democracy and Social Movements in India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 301 | Sociology of Indian Society | Core | 4 | Unity and Diversity of Indian Society, Traditional Social Institutions (Caste, Family, Marriage), Social Change in India (Sanskritization, Westernization), Social Problems (Poverty, Inequality, Corruption), Role of State in Social Transformation |
| SOC 302 | Environmental Sociology | Core | 4 | Environmental Sociology (Concepts, Scope), Human-Environment Interaction, Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development, Environmental Policies and Governance |
| SOC 303 | Sociology of Health | Core | 4 | Health and Illness (Sociological Perspectives), Social Epidemiology, Healthcare System in India, Health Policies and Programs, Gender and Health |
| SOC 304 | Penology and Correctional Administration | Core | 4 | Criminology and Penology (Concepts, Scope), Theories of Punishment, Correctional Institutions (Prisons, Reformatories), Juvenile Delinquency, Criminal Justice System in India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SOC 401 | Gender and Society | Core | 4 | Gender (Concepts, Theories), Patriarchy and Gender Inequality, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Development, Gender-based Violence |
| SOC 402 | Social Demography | Core | 4 | Demography (Concepts, Scope), Population Theories, Population Structure and Composition, Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Population Policy in India |
| SOC 403 | Project Work/Dissertation (Viva Voce) | Project | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing |
| SOC 404 | Social Exclusion and Inclusive Policies | Core | 4 | Social Exclusion (Concepts, Dimensions), Forms of Exclusion (Caste, Tribe, Gender, Disability), Inclusive Policies and Programs, Affirmative Action, Human Rights and Social Justice |
