MA Sociology is a 2-year postgraduate program divided into 4 semesters. It focuses on societal aspects, human behavior, and relationships. The curriculum covers Sociological Theories, Political Sociology, Gender and Society, Medical Sociology, and more.
Eligibility for MA Sociology typically requires a bachelor's degree in sociology from a recognized institute with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks. Admission processes vary, with some colleges relying on merit while others require entrance exams. Top institutions for this program include Christ University, OPJS University, St. Joseph's College, and Andhra University. Check: MA Sociology Syllabus
MA Sociology graduates find career opportunities in sociological firms, law firms, and educational institutes, with roles like professor, counselor, administrator, consultant, and researcher with the average salary offered is between INR 2.0 to 5.0 LPA. Graduates can also opt for higher studies, pursuing M.Phil or Ph.D. in Sociology.
Table of contents
- MA Sociology Highlights
- MA Sociology: What is it about?
- MA Sociology Eligibility
- MA Sociology Admission Process
5.1 MA Sociology Entrance Exams How to Prepare
8.1 MA Sociology Top Colleges Comparison
8.2 MA Sociology Distance Education
9.1.1 Semester 1
9.1.2 Semester 2
9.2.1 Semester 3
9.2.2 Semester 4
MA Sociology Highlights
Course Level | Postgraduate |
Full form | Master of Arts in Sociology |
Duration | 2 years |
Eligibility | Completed graduation in any discipline with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks. |
Admission process | Direct Admission or on the basis of Entrance test. |
Course fee | INR 5,000 to INR 2,00,000 |
Average Salary | INR 3.5 LPA - INR 6.5 LPA |
Job Positions | Counsellor, Administrator, Consultant, Journalist, Researcher |
Top Colleges | TATA Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai Delhi University, Delhi Christ University, Bangalore Loyola College, Chennai |
Top Recruiters | Morphle Labs, Tekion, Salesforce, ZS Associates, FIS Global, Infosys, HCL, ICICI Lombard, the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force), HDFC Life, Johnson & Johnson etc. |
Also check: MA Sociology Jobs
MA Sociology: What is it about?
A Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology is a graduate-level program focused on the study of society, human behavior, and social structures. Key aspects of MA Sociology include:
- MA Sociology emphasizes understanding social phenomena and encourages critical thinking about society's workings.
- Students are introduced to sociological theories like functionalism, conflict theory, and feminism to explain social dynamics.
- The program equips students with research skills, both quantitative and qualitative, to conduct empirical studies and surveys.
- Students can specialize in areas like criminology, gender studies, or social inequality, depending on the program.
- MA Sociology explores contemporary social issues and teaches analysis and policy development.
- It encourages critical analysis of societal norms, values, and power structures, fostering a deeper understanding of social change and cultural diversity.
MA Sociology Eligibility
The eligibility criteria for admission to an MA in Sociology program typically include the following:
- The candidate must hold a bachelor degree from any recognized institute with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks or equivalent CGPA for general category and 45% for reserved categories like SC /ST / OBC/ PwD.
- Colleges like Loyola also give relaxation of 2% marks to SEBC category students.
- The candidates holding a B.A degree in sociology are generally preferred over others.
- Where some institutes offer admission by only entrance exams, the candidates are required to qualify the entrance exam with a valid score.
- There is no upper age limit for this course however, a candidate needs to be of minimum 20 years for this course.
MA Sociology Admission Process
Admissions to MA Sociology programs generally follow a merit-based selection process. However, some colleges may consider entrance exams such as JNUEE, DU DSE MA Entrance Test, HSEE, CUCET, TISSNET, North Maharashtra University MA Entrance Exam, BHUEE, AMU, DUEE, and UHEE for admission. Here are the steps to be considered for both merit-based and entrance-based admissions:
Merit-Based Admissions
- Visit the official website of the institution.
- Click on the registration link and register yourself.
- Login using the password entered at the time of registration.
- Fill the application form with all the valid details.
- Applicants shortlisted according to the details provided will be called to appear to the institution with the necessary documents for verification.
Entrance-Based Admissions
- Visit the official website of the institution.
- Click on the registration link and register yourself.
- Login using the password entered at the time of registration.
- Fill the application form with all the valid details.
- Track the notifications for exam details. Grab your admit card from the official website.
- Appear for the entrance exam and score above the cut-off.
- Applicants shortlisted according to the details provided will be called to appear to the institution with the necessary documents for verification.
- The application forms are released mostly in the month of May or June and the entrance exams are mostly conducted in the month of July or August.
MA Sociology Entrance Exams
Below are details of some MA Sociology entrance exams and their typical exam dates:
Entrance exam | Mode of Examination | Total Duration | Date of Application | Date of Examination | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Start date | End date | ||||
IPU CET | Online | 2 hours 30 minutes | To be Announced | To be Announced | To be Announced |
TISSNET | Online | 1 hour 40 minutes | To be Announced | To be Announced | To be Announced |
PUCET | Offline | 90 minutes | To be Announced | To be Announced | To be Announced |
MGU CAT | Online | 1 hour 30 minutes | To be Announced | To be Announced | To be Announced |
AUAT | Offline | 2 hours | To be Announced | To be Announced | To be Announced |
MA Sociology Entrance Exams How to Prepare
Preparing for MA Sociology Entrance Exams requires a systematic approach and dedicated study. Here are key points to consider:
- Familiarize yourself with the exam format, including the number of questions, sections, and time limits. This will help you plan your study schedule effectively.
- Obtain a detailed syllabus and create a personalized study plan that covers all topics. Focus on core sociological concepts and theories.
- Gather recommended textbooks, reference books, and study guides specific to sociology. Utilize both printed and online resources. Some useful books include "Haralambos and Holborn Sociology: Themes and Perspectives," "Society of India'' by Ram Ahuja, and "Sociological Theory" by Ritzer.
- Solve previous year's question papers and sample papers to gauge the exam's difficulty level and question types. This aids in time management during the actual exam.
- Participate in mock tests designed to replicate exam conditions. Analyze your performance to identify weak areas and revise accordingly.
- Engage in group discussions and study groups with fellow aspirants. This provides diverse perspectives and deepens your understanding of sociological concepts.
- Allocate sufficient time for each syllabus section and reserve time for revision. Regularly review essential concepts and create concise notes.
Why Study MA Sociology?
Pursuing an MA in Sociology offers numerous benefits and compelling reasons for individuals interested in understanding and contributing to the complexities of society. Here are key reasons to consider this academic path:
- An MA in Sociology provides a deep understanding of societal structures, human behavior, and community interconnectedness, valuable for addressing contemporary social challenges.
- Sociology cultivates critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, enabling graduates to scrutinize social issues, challenge assumptions, and develop evidence-based solutions, highly valued by employers.
- Graduates are equipped to engage with pressing social issues such as inequality, poverty, racism, gender discrimination, and environmental concerns. They contribute to advocacy, social services, policy analysis, and research dedicated to societal betterment.
- An MA in Sociology offers a wide array of career opportunities in academia, research, government, non-profits, market research, human resources, and more, allowing graduates to align their careers with their interests and passions.
- Sociology emphasizes research methods, data collection, and statistical analysis, making graduates valuable in fields like market research, data analysis, and policy evaluation.
- Studying sociology fosters self-awareness, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and an appreciation for diversity, making graduates more socially aware and active in their communities.
MA Sociology vs MA Social Work
While some courses may appear related to sociology, it's essential for candidates to consider the differences before opting for a specific program. MA Social Work is one such course, and the following points highlight the distinctions between these two programs:
Parameters | MA Sociology | MA Social Work |
---|---|---|
Course Overview | Study of societal structures, behavior, and social dynamics. | Emphasis on social welfare, advocacy, and working directly with individuals and communities to address social issues. |
Core Subjects | Sociological theories and research. | Social work practice and ethics. |
Career Options | Academia, research, policy analysis. | Social work in healthcare, schools, NGOs, and government agencies. |
Skillset | Research, data analysis, critical thinking. | Counseling, empathy, advocacy, and interpersonal skills. |
Licensure | Typically not required for most career paths. | Often requires licensure or certification to practice as a social worker, depending on the region and specific role. |
Duration | Typically 1-2 years, depending on the program. | Usually 1-2 years, with options for part-time and online programs. |
Eligibility | Graduation in any stream with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks. | Minimum 50% score in graduation in any stream. |
Admission Process | Direct admission or entrance test | Direct admission or entrance test |
Fieldwork/Internship | May include research projects but less emphasis on direct practice. | Integral part of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience in real-world social work settings. |
Salary Range | Varied, depending on the career path and industry. | Varied, with potential for higher salaries in specialized areas of social work, such as healthcare or clinical practice. |
Ethical Considerations | Analyzes ethical dilemmas and social justice issues. | Emphasizes ethical conduct, client rights, and professional boundaries in practice. |
Top Colleges | Loyola College, Chennai St. Xavier's College, Kolkata Nizam College, Hyderabad | TATA Institute of Social Science (TISS), Mumbai Delhi University, Delhi Christ University, Bangalore Loyola College, Chennai |
Recruiting Areas | Law firms, international organizations, human resource departments, health and welfare organizations. | Healthcare, social services, international NGOs and human rights departments. |
Top Job Profiles | Lecturer, Professor, Counselor, Administrator, | Social Activist, Program Manager, Program Coordinator, Social Counselor. |
MA Sociology Top Colleges
MA Sociology is offered at numerous institutes across India. Here is a list of some of the top MA Sociology colleges in the country:
Colleges | Location | Average Fees |
---|---|---|
Christ University | Bangalore, Karnataka | INR 78,000 |
IGNOU | New Delhi, Delhi NCR | INR 14,000 |
Mangalayatan University - [MU] | Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh | INR 40,000 |
IGNTU | Anuppur, Madhya Pradesh | INR 8,000 |
OPJS University | Churu, Rajasthan | INR 50,000 |
RKDF University | Ranchi, Jharkhand | INR 60,000 |
Shyam University | Dausa, Rajasthan | INR 50,000 |
TISS | Guwahati, Assam | INR 1,14,000 |
St Joseph's College | Kohima, Nagaland | INR 80,000 |
AIT | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | INR 80,000 |
Andhra University | Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh | INR 12,400 |
PSSOU | Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh | INR 14,400 |
MA Sociology Top Colleges Comparison
Comparison of three top colleges offering MA in Sociology is based on various important factors is given below.
Parameters | Christ University | IGNOU | Mangalayatan University - [MU] |
---|---|---|---|
Overview | Private Deemed University in Bangalore, known for its diverse programs. | India's largest open university, offering distance education programs. | Private university located in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, offering various courses. |
Established year | 1969 | 1985 | 2006 |
Location | Bangalore, Karnataka | New Delhi, Delhi | Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh |
Ranking | NIRF 2024: 67 | NIRF 2024: 151 | IIRF: 111 |
Average fees | INR 61,500 | INR 6,800 | INR 20,000 |
Eligibility | Candidate must hold a bachelor’s degree with 50% marks | Bachelor’s degree from any recognized University or its equivalent | 45% Marks in Graduation |
Admission Process | MP + PI or SA + MP + PI or Audition + PI | Merit-Based | Merit-Based |
Average CTC | INR 10 LPA | INR 3 - 4 LPA | INR 10 LPA |
Top recruiters | Morphle Labs, Tekion, Salesforce, ZS Associates, FIS Global etc | Aegon Life Insurance, Globiva, Aviva India, Reliance Life Insurance, Radical Minds | Infosys, HCL, ICICI Lombard, the Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force), HDFC Life, Johnson & Johnson, R Systems, Manhattan Associates, HDFC Bank |
MA Sociology Distance Education
MA Sociology Distance Education programs offer students the opportunity to earn a Master's degree in Sociology remotely, providing flexibility and accessibility for those who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes. This mode of education allows learners to delve into sociological concepts, theories, and research methods while balancing their personal and professional commitments. The table below provides details of colleges offering MA Sociology Distance Education programs:
Institute Name | Location | Admission Process | Duration | Fees |
---|---|---|---|---|
Indira Gandhi National Open University | New Delhi | Merit-based | 2 years | INR 12,000 |
Center for Distance and Open Learning, Jamia Millia Islamia University | New Delhi | Merit-based | 2 years | INR 20,000 |
School of Open Learning, University of Delhi | New Delhi | Entrance Test | 2 years | INR 10,000 |
Annamalai University | Tamil Nadu | Merit-based | 2 years | INR 10,000 |
Karnataka State Open University | Karnataka | Merit-based | 2 years | INR 13,500 |
MA Sociology Syllabus
The MA Sociology program typically spans two years and comprises four semesters. Here are the details of each semester:
1st year Syllabus
Here are the details of the MA Sociology 1st year syllabus.
Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
---|---|
Sociology of Kinship | Sociology of India |
Religion and Society | Economic Sociology |
Sociological Theories | Sociology of Development |
Political Sociology | Methods of Sociological Research |
2nd Year Syllabus
Here are the details of the MA Sociology 2nd year syllabus.
Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
---|---|
Industry and Society | Urban Sociology |
Sociology of Symbolism | Populations and Society |
Gender and Society | Sociology of Science |
Sociology of Organizations | Sociology of Media |
Sociology of Education | Agrarian Structure |
MA Sociology Important Books
Below is a list of essential books recommended for MA Sociology courses, offering foundational knowledge and insights into a wide range of sociological concepts and theories:
Books | Author |
---|---|
Sociology: Principles of Sociology | C. N. Shankar Rao |
Sociology Themes and Perspectives | Haralambus |
Indian Sociological Thought | B. K. Nagla |
Sociological Theory | George Ritzer |
Indian Society | M. Senthil Kumar, S Rijesh |
Sociological Imagination | C. Wright Mills |
The Social Construction of Reality | Peter L. Berger and Thomas Luckmann |
The Division of Labor in Society | Emile Durkheim |
The Rules of Sociological Method | Emile Durkheim |
Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity | Judith Butler |
MA Sociology Career Prospects
An MA in Sociology opens up diverse and rewarding career paths, providing graduates with the opportunity to analyze, address, and influence various social issues and dynamics. Below are some promising job profiles for MA Sociology graduates, along with their job descriptions and average salaries:
Job Profile | Job Description | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|---|
Sociologist | Conducts research to study social trends, behaviors, and structures. Analyzes data, publishes findings, and may contribute to policy development. | INR 5 LPA |
Social Worker | Provides direct assistance and support to individuals and communities facing social challenges. Offers counseling, advocacy, and referrals to services. | INR 2 LPA |
Counselor | Offers counseling services based on understanding of community dynamics. | INR 2.3 LPA |
PR Executive | Utilizes knowledge of civilizations and societies to work as a Public Relations Executive. | INR 3 LPA |
Journalist | Pursues a career in journalism, leveraging their expertise in societal issues. | INR 3 LPA |
Research Analyst | Gathers and analyzes data, conducts surveys, and prepares reports to assist organizations and policymakers in understanding and addressing social issues. | INR 3.4 LPA |
Policy Analyst | Evaluates and formulates public policies, often with a focus on social welfare, by conducting research, analyzing data, and making policy recommendations. | INR 9.73 LPA |
Nonprofit Program Manager | Manages programs and initiatives for nonprofit organizations, overseeing budgets, staff, and implementation to achieve social impact and goals. | INR 11.7 LPA |
Human Resources Specialist | Assists organizations in managing employee relations, diversity and inclusion programs, and social responsibility initiatives. | INR 6.5 LPA |
Market Research Analyst | Studies consumer behavior and market trends to help businesses make informed decisions regarding product development and marketing strategies. | INR 5.2 LPA |
Academic Researcher/ Professor | Engages in teaching, academic research, and publishing scholarly work in sociology, often within a university or college setting. | INR 15 LPA |
Community Organizer | Mobilizes communities to address social issues, advocate for change, and promote community development and engagement. | INR 5.43 LPA |
MA Sociology Future Scope
The future scope of MA Sociology is promising, offering opportunities for both further education and diverse career paths. Here are four key points regarding the future scope of MA Sociology:
- Many MA Sociology graduates choose to pursue further education, such as a Ph.D. in Sociology or related fields. A doctorate can lead to academic positions, advanced research opportunities, and specialization in niche areas of sociology.
- MA Sociology opens doors to a wide range of career options in areas like social research, policy analysis, social work, human resources, non-profit management, and counseling. The versatile skill set acquired can be applied in various industries.
- There is a growing demand for professionals who can analyze and address complex social issues, especially in areas like social justice, diversity and inclusion, and public policy. MA Sociology graduates are sought after for their critical thinking and research skills.
- MA Sociology graduates find employment in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, educational institutions, corporations, and healthcare, among others. They often contribute to policy development, social services, and community development.
MA Sociology FAQs
Ques. What is an MA in Sociology?
Ans. An MA in Sociology is a graduate-level program that explores the study of society, human behavior, and social structures. It covers various sociological theories, research methods, and contemporary social issues.
Ques. What are the typical admission requirements for an MA in Sociology program?
Ans. Admission requirements may vary by institution but generally include a bachelor's degree, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and in some cases, an entrance exam. However, most admissions are merit-based.
Ques. What career opportunities are available to MA Sociology graduates?
Ans. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, research, social services, policy analysis, market research, human resources, counseling, and various other fields related to sociology and social sciences.
Ques. Is it necessary to have a background in sociology for admission to an MA Sociology program?
Ans. While some programs prefer applicants with a sociology or related background, many accept students from diverse academic disciplines, provided they meet other admission criteria.
Ques. What is the duration of an MA in Sociology program?
Ans. Typically, the program lasts for one to two years, but the duration may vary depending on the institution and whether it is a full-time or part-time program.
Ques. Are there specializations or concentrations available within MA Sociology programs?
Ans. Yes, many programs offer specializations in areas like criminology, gender studies, environmental sociology, social policy, and more. Students can often choose an area of focus.
Ques. Is financial aid or scholarships available for MA Sociology students?
Ans. Some universities offer scholarships and financial aid to eligible students. It's advisable to check with the specific institution for details on available funding opportunities.
Ques. What are the core subjects covered in an MA Sociology curriculum?
Ans. Core subjects typically include sociological theories, research methods, social inequality, globalization, cultural diversity, and contemporary social issues.
Ques. Can I pursue an MA in Sociology through distance education or online programs?
Ans. Yes, many universities offer MA Sociology programs through distance or online learning, providing flexibility for students who cannot attend traditional on-campus classes. Institutions like IGNOU and IGNTU offer distance education options.
Ques. What skills and qualities are valuable for success in an MA Sociology program?
Ans. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, the ability to conduct research, empathy, cultural sensitivity, and a passion for understanding and addressing societal issues are all valuable qualities for success in this field.
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