Sardar Patel University - MA Sociology Semester 3 Syllabus

Overview

Semester 3 of the MA Sociology program at Sardar Patel University continues to build upon the theoretical and methodological foundations established in previous semesters. This semester focuses on specialized areas of sociological inquiry, including research methodology, sociology of development, and social stratification. Students are expected to engage deeply with contemporary sociological debates and develop critical analytical skills.

Courses

Course Descriptions

SOC 301: Advanced Social Research Methods

This course builds on the foundation laid in the previous semester and explores advanced techniques in social research. Students learn about:

• Qualitative research methodologies
• Quantitative research designs and statistical analysis
• Mixed methods approaches
• Ethical considerations in social research
• Data interpretation and presentation
• Use of software for data analysis (SPSS, NVivo)
• Writing research proposals and reports

SOC 302: Sociology of Development

This course examines the concept of development from sociological perspectives, covering:

• Theories of development (modernization, dependency, world systems)
• Post-development critiques and alternatives
• Globalization and its impact on development
• Sustainable development goals
• Development policies and social consequences
• Case studies of development projects in India
• Grassroots movements and development

SOC 303: Social Stratification

This course explores systems of social hierarchy and inequality, including:

• Theoretical approaches to social stratification
• Class, status, and power
• Caste system in India: structure and changes
• Race and ethnicity
• Gender stratification
• Social mobility
• Intersections of different forms of stratification
• Measures of inequality

Elective Course Details

SOC 304A: Sociology of Gender

This elective examines gender as a social construct and its intersection with other social categories. Topics include feminist theories, gender socialization, gender and work, violence against women, and gender policies.

SOC 304B: Sociology of Health and Medicine

This course explores the social dimensions of health, illness, and healthcare systems, including social determinants of health, doctor-patient relationships, health inequalities, and public health systems.

SOC 304C: Environmental Sociology

This course examines the relationship between society and environment, covering environmental problems, environmental movements, sustainability, and environmental justice.

SOC 304D: Political Sociology

This elective analyzes power structures, political institutions, social movements, citizenship, and the relationship between state and society.

SOC 304E: Sociology of Religion

This course explores religious beliefs, practices, and institutions from a sociological perspective, including theories of religion, secularization, religious movements, and religion in contemporary society.

Research Project / Field Work

Students are required to undertake a small-scale research project under faculty supervision. This involves:

• Developing a research proposal
• Conducting literature review
• Designing research methodology
• Collecting and analyzing data
• Writing a research report
• Presenting findings

Evaluation Scheme

Component	Weightage
Internal Assessment (Assignments, Presentations, Class Participation)	30%
Semester End Examinations	70%

Recommended Readings

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of Semester 3, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced understanding of social research methods and apply appropriate methods for different research questions
• Critically analyze major theories of development and their application in the Indian context
• Examine systems of social stratification and their impact on society
• Apply sociological concepts to analyze specialized areas (based on elective choices)
• Design and conduct independent research projects
• Interpret and present research findings effectively