BA in Sociology

Bachelor of Arts (Honours / Honours with Research)

Sociology (Minor in Psychology / Economics / Human Resources)


Eligibility

A student who has passed Level 4 / Class 12 schooling (either through formal schooling or through the open school system) or its equivalent shall be eligible for admission to BA programmes.

However, students who have not studied requisite courses from the discipline related to the respective programmes will have to undertake the prescribed bridge course(s).

Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours / Honours with Research) in Sociology at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) is designed in accordance with the UGC’s 2024 curriculum framework and the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The programme offers an in-depth exploration of society, culture, institutions, and human relationships, while integrating interdisciplinary perspectives through Minors in Psychology, Economics, or Human Resources.
 
Students develop a strong foundation in classical and contemporary sociological theories, research methods, social policy, and applied sociology. The curriculum emphasises critical inquiry, empirical analysis, and a nuanced understanding of social structures, inequalities, and emerging global challenges.
 
The Honours with Research track enables students to undertake independent research projects under expert supervision, nurturing scholarly rigour and preparing them for advanced study, professional practice, and evidence-based careers in social research, human development, community engagement, policy analysis, and organisational roles.
 
The programme is particularly suited for learners who aspire to understand and address complex social issues, contribute to community wellbeing, and pursue careers that require analytical, empathetic, and socially responsible competencies.

Program code: 001A

Course Highlights

  • Interdisciplinary Academic Framework
    A well-structured curriculum that integrates the study of Sociology with complementary disciplines such as Psychology, Human Resources, and Economics, enabling students to develop a holistic understanding of social systems and human behaviour.

  • Research-Driven Learning
    Opportunities for hands-on research through independent projects, field studies, and dissertations, fostering analytical rigour and methodological competence.

  • Career-Focused Skill Development
    Structured internships, community fieldwork, and applied learning modules that enhance professional readiness across sectors including development, human resources, and research.

  • Commitment to Social Wellbeing and Ethics
    Strong emphasis on social responsibility, mental health awareness, ethical practice, and community engagement through outreach initiatives and collaborative activities.

  • Experiential and Inquiry-Based Pedagogy
    Immersive learning experiences through case analyses, field visits, participatory projects, and problem-based activities that bridge theoretical understanding with real-world application.

  • Digital and Analytical Competency Building
    Exposure to digital tools, data analysis techniques, and contemporary research methodologies is essential for sociological research and evidence-based practice.

Career Enhancement Programs

  • Academic Skill-Building Workshops
    Regular workshops are designed to strengthen academic writing, critical thinking, presentation skills, and disciplinary knowledge.

  • Training in Research Methodology and Statistical Tools
    Hands-on exposure to qualitative and quantitative research methods, supported by training in analytical software such as SPSS, R, and Jamovi.

  • Industry and Community Engagement
    Internships and field-based learning opportunities across NGOs, community organisations, HR departments, corporate sectors, healthcare institutions, and research centres that build professional competencies and applied experience.

  • Scholarly Exposure and Networking
    Participation in national seminars, conferences, guest lectures, and paper presentations enables students to interact with scholars, practitioners, and industry experts.

  • Continuous Academic and Professional Mentorship
    Comprehensive guidance and mentorship by faculty members throughout the programme duration, supporting academic progression, research development, and career planning.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the BA (Honours / Honours with Research) in Sociology develop a strong theoretical understanding, research proficiency, and analytical capability to interpret social systems, human interactions, and contemporary societal challenges. The programme equips learners with critical thinking, ethical awareness, communication skills, and an interdisciplinary orientation, making it suitable for diverse academic and professional pathways.

With advanced qualifications such as an M.A. in Sociology, Social Work, Human Resource Management, Development Studies, Public Policy, or allied disciplines, graduates can pursue roles in:

Social and Community Development, Human Resource Management and Training, Public Policy and Governance, Research and Data Analysis, Market and Social Research, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), NGO and Development Sector Roles, Educational and Institutional Support Services, Organisational Behaviour and Culture Studies, Academic and Research Institutions

Graduates are well-positioned to work with NGOs, research foundations, CSR divisions, government agencies, educational institutions, mental health and community welfare programmes, and human resources departments.

The programme also serves as a strong foundation for advanced research, preparation for the civil services, development-sector leadership, and global academic mobility in the social sciences.

FAQ's

What is the difference between the Honours and Honours with Research track?


The Honours track is a 4-year degree focused on disciplinary knowledge, applied learning, and industry-oriented skills. The Honours with Research track is also a 4-year degree, but includes an extended research component, culminating in a dissertation. It is ideal for students aspiring to pursue postgraduate research, academic careers, or policy-oriented roles.

Can I choose my Minor subject?


Yes. Students may select a Minor from Psychology, Human Resources, or Economics, based on their academic interests and future career goals. The Minor allows learners to broaden their interdisciplinary understanding and strengthen their professional profile.

What kind of research opportunities are available?


Students engage in research throughout the programme under the guidance of faculty mentors. They undertake:

  • Independent research projects
  • Field studies and community engagement initiatives
  • Internships that integrate empirical inquiry with real-world application

Training begins early through exposure to qualitative and quantitative methods, digital research tools (SPSS, Jamovi, R), and sociological fieldwork techniques.

Common research areas include:

  • Inequality, social justice, and human development
  • Urban issues, migration, and public policy
  • Community welfare and social intervention studies
  • Workplace culture, organisational behaviour, and HRM
  • Digital society, media influence, and emerging socio-technological trends
  • Culture, identity, and social change

In the Honours with Research track, students complete a dissertation involving systematic data collection, analysis, and academic reporting, often presented at seminars or conferences.

What skills will I develop during this programme?


Students build a wide range of academic, research, and professional skills, including:

  • Sociological analysis and critical thinking
  • Qualitative and quantitative research skills
  • Fieldwork and ethnographic observation
  • Data interpretation using digital tools
  • Organisational and community engagement skills
  • Communication, teamwork, and ethical reasoning
  • Understanding of human behaviour, institutions, and social processes

These competencies are relevant across development, corporate, policy, and academic domains.

What are the options after completing this degree?


Graduates of the BA (Honours / Honours with Research) in Sociology are prepared for postgraduate study, research, and diverse professional roles in India and abroad. They may pursue:

  • M.A. in Sociology, Social Work, Development Studies, Public Policy, or allied fields
  • MBA (Human Resource Management / Organisational Behaviour)
  • Postgraduate Diplomas in Social Research, HRM, Public Health, Counselling, or CSR
  • Specialised certifications in data analysis, social impact, policy evaluation, or community development

Career pathways include:

  • Social and community development roles
  • Human resource management and training
  • CSR and sustainability
  • Public policy and governance
  • Social/market research and data analysis
  • NGO and development sector roles
  • Academic or research careers

Students may also pursue research fellowships, government projects, NGO collaborations, or international exchange programmes, strengthening their professional and global profile.

The programme nurtures leadership, civic responsibility, and entrepreneurial thinking—encouraging graduates to create social enterprises, community initiatives, and development-focused projects.