Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - BA (Hons.) - Sociology

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology is a four-year undergraduate programme that invites students to explore the complexity of human society through a critical, research-driven lens. As one of the dynamic and evolving disciplines within the social sciences, sociology equips students with the tools to critically examine the structures and systems that shape our own life worlds. It moves beyond common-sense thinking and challenges students to understand society through evidence-based analysis. With a balanced emphasis on both theoretical foundations and fieldwork, this programme fosters a deep understanding of social dynamics from the ground up. The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to blend theoretical knowledge with empirical inquiry, encouraging students to engage directly with communities and real-world issues.

Through this journey, students are encouraged to question, analyse, and innovate in their understanding of social life. Social outreach and community participation will be fostered through the curriculum and pedagogic exercises. In the advance years, the students will have the opportunity to specialise in subfields such as criminology gaining focused insights into crime, justice, and social order. In the advanced years, they can choose to specialize in Criminology, gaining a focused understanding of crime, justice, and the institutions that govern social order.

Graduates of this programme emerge as sharp analysts, empathetic thinkers, and socially conscious professionals. Whether pursuing careers in corporate sectors (CSR, HR, organizational behavior), development work (NGOs, international agencies), public policy, civil services, or academia, they carry forward a commitment to social justice and transformation. With a strong commitment to addressing social inequalities and fostering inclusive change, graduates of Sociology are not only equipped with critical thinking and analytical skills—they emerge as agents of meaningful transformation in society.

Come, join us on this journey of inquiry and impact—exploring themes that stretch from self to society, inequality to digital transformation, heterosexuality to queerness, physical places to virtual realities, and from “book view” to “field view”—and far beyond.

The Undergraduate Programme in Sociology offers a distinctive and holistic educational experience that integrates rigorous academic training with real-world engagement. Designed to cultivate critical thinking, research capabilities, and professional competencies, the programme prepares students for advanced study, meaningful careers, and leadership roles in public service, including civil services such as the UPSC.

Eligibility

10+2 from recognized Board / Council with minimum 50% marks.

A relaxation of 5% marks or its equivalent grade may be allowed for those belonging to SC / ST.

Course Duration

Four Years (Eight Semesters)

Key Features

Community Connect: Students actively participate in community-based learning, fostering a deeper understanding of diverse social contexts and strengthening their capacity for empathetic and informed social analysis.

Corporate Connect: Through collaborations with the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) divisions of reputed organizations, students gain insights into the role of CSR managers in promoting ethical business practices, addressing social issues, and integrating sustainability into corporate strategy.

Field-Based Experiential Learning: The curriculum includes structured fieldwork, internships, and applied research projects that connect sociological theory to ground realities, enhancing both practical knowledge and employability.

Academic Conferences and Global Exposure: Students are encouraged to present their work at national and international academic forums and participate in exchange programmes that broaden their intellectual and cultural perspectives.

Research and Analytical Training: Emphasis on research methodology and guided mentorship from experienced faculty enables students to develop robust analytical skills, preparing them for postgraduate studies, competitive examinations, and evidence-based policy roles.

Programme Structure

Social Inequality and Stratification
Theoretical Perspectives in Sociology
Kinship and Relatedness
Methodology in Social Sciences
Economy and Society
Religion and Society in India
Social Change and Mobility
Social Anthropology
Indian Sociological Tradition

Sociology of Crime and Deviance
Industrial Sociology
Rural Sociology
Sociology of Sports
Sociology of Work
Health, Culture and Society
Sociology of Artificial Intelligence
Population and Society in India
Tribal Sociology in India
Urban Sociology
Law and Social Transformation
Political Sociology
Sociology of Gender
Science, Technology and Society
Social Movements
Sociology of Education
Ecology and Society
Cinema, Culture and Society
Sociology of Tourism

Career Pathway

"A BA degree in Sociology with a specialization in Criminology—offered under the broader Undergraduate Liberal Arts Programme framework with a variety of minor options—opens a wide spectrum of career pathways. Graduates develop advanced critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities, along with the capacity to design and conduct independent sociological research. They are also trained to engage actively with communities, demonstrating a strong commitment to understanding and addressing both local and global social challenges. These skill sets, which are increasingly valued in today’s complex and interconnected world, open up a wide range of career opportunities for graduates.

Corporate Sector: Roles in organizational behavior analysis, employee engagement, diversity and inclusion, and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), where sociological insight enhances workplace culture and ethical governance.

Development Sector: Employment with NGOs, international agencies, and grassroots organizations working on social development, gender equity, education, health, and sustainability.

Public Policy and Governance: Contributions to policymaking, advocacy, and implementation of programs that tackle pressing social issues such as inequality, migration, environment, and welfare.

Public Administration (Civil Services): Positions in government and administrative services where knowledge of social dynamics supports effective governance and policy execution.

Academia and Research: Opportunities in higher education and think tanks for teaching, sociological research, and publishing in areas such as social theory, urban studies, or digital cultures.

International Development Consulting: Work with global organizations like the United Nations, World Bank, or international NGOs to design and evaluate programs aimed at global social challenges.

Urban Planning and Community Development: Engagement in planning and development of sustainable urban environments, addressing issues such as housing, transportation, and public infrastructure.

Media, Communication, and Advocacy: Roles in journalism, content creation, and strategic communication with a focus on public awareness, social messaging, and media literacy.

Market and Social Research: Careers in data analysis and consumer research, providing insights for businesses, governments, or civil society initiatives.

Education and Training: Involvement in curriculum development, teaching at various levels, or training professionals in diversity, inclusion, and social ethics.