Sociological studies involve the systematic investigation of human behavior in social contexts. Sociologists use various research methods to study social phenomena, such as surveys, experiments, participant observation, and archival research.
Some common topics that sociological research addresses include:
Social stratification: the study of social class, income inequality, and the distribution of wealth and resources in society.
Culture and identity: the study of how cultural values, beliefs, and practices shape individual and group identity.
Social institutions: the study of the ways in which organizations and institutions, such as families, schools, and government agencies, influence social behavior.
Deviance and crime: the study of social norms, rule-breaking behavior, and criminal activity.
Race and ethnicity: the study of racial and ethnic relations, discrimination, and inequality.
Gender and sexuality: the study of gender roles, sexual orientation, and the social construction of gender and sexuality.
Globalization and social change: the study of how social, economic, and political changes affect individuals and communities across the globe.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD in Sociological Studies |
Full Name | PhD in Sociological Studies |
Eligibility | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Updated Soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
The eligibility requirements for pursuing a degree in sociology vary depending on the program and institution. Generally, you will need to have completed a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the minimum academic requirements set by the university or college.
The duration of a degree in sociology can vary depending on the level of study you choose. A bachelor's degree typically takes four years to complete, while a master's degree takes two years and a doctoral degree takes four to seven years.
Admission to a sociology program may require you to submit transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and/or a writing sample. Selection criteria may also include demonstrated interest in the field, relevant work or research experience, and meeting the minimum academic requirements.
To apply for a sociology program, you will typically need to submit an application to the institution of your choice.
Application processes may include filling out an online application, submitting transcripts and other supporting materials, and paying an application fee.
In addition to formal academic programs, there are many other ways to engage in sociological research, such as through internships, volunteering, and participating in research projects. It is important to do your own research to determine the best path for you to pursue your interests in sociology.
Typically, you will need to submit an online application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, and standardized test scores (if applicable). Each institution may have different requirements, so it is important to carefully review the application instructions before submitting your application.
The application fee can vary depending on the institution and the level of study. Generally, the application fee ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees.
Semester 1: Foundations of Sociological Theory Overview of classical sociological theories (Marx, Durkheim, Weber) Contemporary sociological perspectives (functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism) Debates and critiques in sociological theory Research Methods in Sociology Introduction to research design and methodology Qualitative research methods (interviews, ethnography, content analysis) Quantitative research methods (surveys, experiments, statistical analysis) Ethical considerations in sociological research Advanced Seminar in Sociological Analysis Analysis of seminal sociological texts Application of sociological theories to contemporary issues Critical reading and discussion of current research in sociology | Semester 2: Advanced Quantitative Research Methods Advanced statistical analysis techniques Multivariate analysis Survey design and analysis Data visualization and interpretation Advanced Qualitative Research Methods Advanced qualitative data collection methods Interpretive analysis techniques Reflexivity and positionality in qualitative research Advanced coding and thematic analysis Special Topics in Sociological Studies Seminars covering specialized topics in sociology (e.g., social movements, gender studies, race and ethnicity, globalization) Guest lectures by leading scholars in various subfields of sociology |
Semester 3: Theory Development in Sociology Advanced study of contemporary sociological theories The process of theory construction and refinement Evaluation of theoretical frameworks in sociology Advanced Seminar in Sociological Research Design and presentation of research proposals Peer review and feedback on research ideas Collaborative research projects and group discussions Elective Coursework | Semester 4: Dissertation Proposal Development Formulation of dissertation research questions and objectives Literature review and theoretical framework development Methodological considerations and research design Independent Research and Writing Conducting dissertation research under the guidance of a faculty advisor Data collection, analysis, and interpretation Writing and presenting dissertation chapters Professional Development Preparation for academic and non-academic careers Grant writing and funding opportunities Publishing research findings and presenting at conferences |
The salary and job opportunities for sociology graduates vary depending on the level of education, experience, and specialization. Sociology graduates may find employment in fields such as social work, public policy, research, academia, and non-profit organizations. According to PayScale, the average salary for a sociology graduate in India is around Rs. 5-6 lakhs per year.
Sociology graduates may find employment opportunities in various fields, including social services, education, government, research, and advocacy. Some common job titles for sociology graduates include social worker, policy analyst, researcher, teacher, and non-profit manager.
Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.
Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?
ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.
Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?
ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.
Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?
ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.
Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?
ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.
Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?
ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?
ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.
Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?
ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.
Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?
ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.
Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?
ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.
Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?
ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.
Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?
ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.
Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?
ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.