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I. What is UGC NET Sociology?
UGC NET Sociology is a prestigious national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) under the guidance of the University Grants Commission (UGC). It is designed to assess the eligibility of candidates aspiring for:
Assistant Professorship in colleges and universities across India
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) for pursuing M.Phil./Ph.D. and engaging in advanced research in Sociology
This exam is especially suited for individuals deeply interested in analyzing human behavior in social contexts, understanding institutions, social structures, inequalities, and changes within various societies.
Why Choose Sociology?
Sociology helps us comprehend the complexities of modern life—from caste and class dynamics to gender issues, from rural development to urbanization, from cultural practices to globalization. The UGC NET Sociology exam allows you to not only contribute academically but also engage meaningfully in research, policy-making, and fieldwork that influence society at large.
What Does the Exam Test?
UGC NET Sociology rigorously assesses a candidate’s grasp of key sociological areas such as:
Theoretical Foundations• Classical theorists (Durkheim, Marx, Weber)• Contemporary perspectives (Structuralism, Postmodernism, Feminism)
Indian Society and Its Dynamics• Caste, class, gender, tribe, and religion• Social movements, rural and urban structures, diversity, and integration
Research Methodology & Social Statistics• Qualitative and quantitative techniques• Sampling, survey, ethnography, reliability & validity
Global Processes and Social Change• Development theory• Globalization, liberalization, and policy reforms• Changing patterns in family, marriage, education, and work
Policy Awareness• Indian constitution, welfare state, affirmative action• Panchayati Raj, health, education, environmental policies
UGC NET Sociology is not just about memory-based learning—it demands critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and an ability to connect theory with real-world issues.
II. Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The UGC NET Sociology exam is tailored for individuals who are academically inclined toward social analysis and wish to build a career in teaching, research, or social development.
Ideal Candidates Include:
Postgraduates in Sociology or related disciplines like Social Anthropology, Social Work, Political Science, or Development Studies
Aspirants looking to become Assistant Professors, Lecturers, or Research Scholars in Sociology
Candidates aspiring to work in NGOs, policy think tanks, social research agencies, or developmental sectors
Individuals passionate about exploring social issues, inequality, caste, gender, and policy-making through a sociological lens
Eligibility Requirements
To appear for the UGC NET Sociology exam, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. Educational Qualification
A Master’s Degree in Sociology or an allied subject (from a UGC-recognized university or institution)
2. Minimum Qualifying Marks
General Category: 55% aggregate in post-graduation
SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)/PwD/Transgender: 50% aggregate
Note: Final-year postgraduate students whose results are awaited can also apply provisionally.
3. Age Limit
For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):• Maximum 30 years• Relaxation of up to 5 years for candidates from OBC (NCL), SC, ST, PwD, women, and transgender categories
For Assistant Professorship:• No upper age limit
III. UGC NET Sociology Exam Pattern
The UGC NET Sociology Exam is conducted in online mode (Computer-Based Test) and consists of two papers held in a single session. Both papers are objective-type, featuring multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Exam Structure at a Glance
Paper
Subject
Marks
Number of Questions
Duration
Paper I
General Paper on Teaching & Research Aptitude
100
50 questions
1 Hour
Paper II
Sociology (Core Subject)
200
100 questions
2 Hours
Key Highlights
Total Marks: 300 (Paper I + Paper II)
Total Questions: 150
Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
Type of Questions: Multiple Choice (MCQ)
Marking Scheme: +2 marks for each correct answer
Negative Marking: No negative marking
Medium of Paper: English and Hindi (bilingual)
Detailed Paper-Wise Breakdown
Paper I – General Aptitude (Common for All Subjects)
Focuses on assessing the candidate’s teaching and research abilities.
Topics Include:
Teaching Aptitude
Research Aptitude
Logical Reasoning and Analytical Ability
Reading Comprehension
Communication
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Data Interpretation
People and Environment
Higher Education System: Governance, Policies, and Administration
This paper checks your general academic awareness and reasoning abilities.
Paper II – Sociology (Subject-Specific Paper)
Evaluates domain-specific knowledge in Sociology and its applied aspects.
Core Areas Covered:
Sociological Theory: Classical, Modern, and Contemporary Thinkers
Indian Society: Caste, Class, Gender, Religion, and Social Institutions
Social Change and Development: Urbanization, Industrialization, Modernization
Research Methods and Methodology: Sampling, Survey, Fieldwork, Quantitative & Qualitative Analysis
Population and Society: Demographic Transition, Fertility, Migration
Globalization and Development: Policy, Economy, Media, and Culture
Social Stratification and Mobility
Social Movements: Feminist, Dalit, Environmental, Tribal
Sociology of Religion, Politics, Education, and Law
This paper tests your depth of knowledge in theoretical, applied, and Indian sociological thought.
IV. UGC NET Sociology Syllabus at a Glance
The UGC NET Sociology syllabus is designed to evaluate both core theoretical knowledge and applied understanding of key sociological themes. The syllabus spans classical concepts, contemporary issues, and methodological approaches necessary for teaching and research in Sociology.
1. Sociological Theory
Deep dive into foundational and modern schools of thought.
Classical Thinkers:– Karl Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Struggle)– Max Weber (Social Action, Bureaucracy, Authority)– Émile Durkheim (Social Facts, Division of Labour, Suicide, Religion)
Theoretical Approaches:– Structural Functionalism (Talcott Parsons, Robert K. Merton)– Conflict Theory (Coser, Dahrendorf)– Symbolic Interactionism (G.H. Mead, Blumer)– Phenomenology & Ethnomethodology– Postmodernism & Feminist Theory
2. Research Methodology and Methods
Essential tools for academic inquiry and empirical analysis.
Types of Research: Qualitative, Quantitative, and Mixed Methods
Research Concepts: Hypothesis formulation, Variables, Validity, Reliability
Data Collection: Surveys, Interviews, Focus Groups, Ethnography
Sampling Techniques: Probability & Non-probability Sampling
Scaling Techniques: Likert, Thurstone, Guttman Scales
Data Analysis Tools: SPSS Basics, Descriptive & Inferential Statistics
Ethical Issues in Research
3. Indian Society
Understanding the sociological fabric of India.
Major Social Institutions: Family, Marriage, Kinship, Religion
Social Divisions: Caste System, Class Structure, Gender Roles, Tribal Life
Social Processes: Sanskritization, Westernization, Modernization
Rural vs. Urban Society: Migration, Urbanization, Panchayati Raj
Social Change and Continuity in India
4. Social Stratification and Mobility
Examines inequalities and systems of social ranking.
Forms of Stratification: Caste, Class, Race, Ethnicity, Gender
Theories: Davis-Moore, Marxian, Weberian, Bourdieu's Capital
Social Mobility: Horizontal, Vertical, Intergenerational
Reservation and Affirmative Action Policies in India
Debates on Equality and Social Justice
5. Sociology of Change and Development
Explores the forces that shape societies.
Social Change: Modernization, Secularization, Globalization
Development Theories: Dependency, World Systems, Human Development
Indicators of Development: HDI, GDP, Literacy, Gender Index
Role of NGOs, Government, International Agencies (UN, IMF, World Bank)
Sustainable Development and Environment
6. Sociology of Religion and Kinship
Analyzes belief systems and familial structures.
Sociological Theories of Religion: Durkheim, Weber, Marx
Religious Practices and Rituals in India
Religious Pluralism, Secularism, Communalism
Marriage Systems: Monogamy, Polygamy, Endogamy, Exogamy
Kinship Patterns: Lineage, Clan, Descent, Residence Patterns
7. Population Studies and Demography
Study of demographic trends and population behavior.
Basic Concepts: Fertility, Mortality, Migration, Life Expectancy
Demographic Theories: Malthusian, Demographic Transition Model
Population Policies in India
Census, Sample Registration System (SRS), National Family Health Survey (NFHS)
Urbanization, Aging, Youth Demographics
8. Social Movements and Political Sociology
Focuses on collective action and state-society relations.
Major Movements:– Peasant Movements– Women’s Movements– Dalit and Tribal Movements– Ecological/Environmental Movements
Theories of Social Movements: Relative Deprivation, Resource Mobilization, New Social Movements
Political Sociology:– Power and Authority– State and Civil Society– Ideology, Democracy, and Citizenship
9. Contemporary Issues
Application of sociological lenses to real-world issues.
Environmental Sociology: Climate Change, Resource Crisis, Sustainability
Health and Medicine: Access, Inequality, Public Health Policies
Sociology of Education: Role of Schooling, Curriculum, Social Mobility
Media and Society: Mass Communication, Digital Media, Identity Politics
Gender and Sexuality Studies
Youth and Urbanization in the Digital Age
This syllabus not only prepares candidates for the UGC NET exam but also builds a strong foundation for teaching, research, and policy engagement in sociology.
V. Career Scope After UGC NET Sociology
Successfully clearing the UGC NET/JRF exam in Sociology is not just a certificate—it’s a gateway to a wide array of rewarding academic, research, and professional opportunities. This qualification validates your expertise and opens doors in diverse fields where sociological knowledge and analytical skills are highly valued.
1. Assistant Professor / Lecturer
Role: Teach Sociology at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in universities and colleges across India.
Responsibilities:– Deliver lectures and seminars on sociological theories, research methods, and contemporary issues– Guide students in their academic projects, dissertations, and fieldwork– Participate in curriculum design and departmental development
Why it matters: Becoming an Assistant Professor is the most direct career path after clearing UGC NET. It offers a stable academic career with opportunities for promotion, research, and professional growth.
2. Junior Research Fellow (JRF) / PhD Scholar
Role: Engage in advanced sociological research backed by financial support from UGC.
Opportunities:– Monthly fellowship stipend to support your doctoral or M.Phil. studies– Access to national research centers, libraries, and academic conferences– Possibility to collaborate with senior researchers and interdisciplinary teams
Why it matters: JRF empowers you to deepen your research expertise, contribute original knowledge to sociology, and build a strong academic profile for future positions in teaching and research.
3. Policy Analyst / Research Associate
Role: Work with NGOs, think tanks, and policy research organizations to analyze social issues and recommend evidence-based solutions.
Scope:– Conduct field surveys and social impact assessments– Analyze social policies related to health, education, gender, rural development, etc.– Draft reports, policy briefs, and white papers for government or international agencies
Why it matters: Sociological insight is critical in shaping policies that address inequality, development, and social justice. This career path offers a practical avenue to influence public welfare and governance.
4. Social Sector Professional
Role: Engage with social development projects under the aegis of international bodies (like UN), NGOs, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, or government schemes.
Activities:– Community mobilization, program planning, and monitoring– Social audits, awareness campaigns, and capacity building– Evaluation of social interventions and sustainability projects
Why it matters: This role puts sociological theory into action, helping marginalized communities and promoting inclusive development.
5. Civil Services / Competitive Exams
Role: Use your strong foundation in sociology as a valuable asset for competitive exams such as UPSC, State PSCs, SSC, and others.
Advantages:– Sociology is a popular optional subject for UPSC Mains due to its broad applicability and scoring potential– Knowledge of social structure, institutions, and policies enhances understanding of societal issues required for administrative roles
Why it matters: A UGC NET Sociology qualification boosts your credibility and preparation depth for civil services and government jobs.
6. Media, Journalism, and Publishing
Role: Write and analyze social issues, cultural trends, and policy impacts for media outlets, journals, and academic publications.
Scope:– Reporting on sociological topics for newspapers, magazines, and digital platforms– Authoring editorials, opinion pieces, and research articles– Editing academic journals or publishing houses specializing in social sciences
Why it matters: Sociologists help bridge the gap between academia and the public, making complex social phenomena accessible and understandable.
7. Curriculum Developer / Subject Matter Expert
Role: Design and develop academic curricula, training modules, and educational content for schools, colleges, or professional institutions.
Tasks:– Prepare syllabi aligned with current trends and examination standards– Create teaching aids, textbooks, and multimedia learning resources– Conduct workshops and training for teachers and educators
Why it matters: This career leverages your subject expertise to shape future generations of students and professionals, ensuring quality education in sociology.
VI. How We Help You Crack UGC NET Sociology
At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we know that cracking UGC NET Sociology requires more than just hard work—it demands smart preparation, deep understanding, and consistent practice. That’s why our coaching program is designed to build both your subject mastery and exam readiness, ensuring you enter the exam hall with confidence and clarity.
Here’s exactly how we support you at every step of your UGC NET Sociology journey:
1. Topic-Wise Live & Recorded Classes
We break down the entire UGC NET Sociology syllabus into manageable, focused modules that cover everything from classical and contemporary sociological theories to Indian society, research methods, and current social issues.
Each topic is explained with clarity, using real-world examples to help you connect theory with practice.
Our classes are interactive and engaging, encouraging you to ask questions and participate actively.
Missed a class? No worries! All sessions are recorded and available on our mobile app, so you can learn at your own pace, anytime and anywhere.
2. 10+ Years PYQ Analysis & Trend Forecasting
We dive deep into over a decade of previous year question papers, decoding examiner patterns and highlighting which topics carry more weight.
Our detailed trend analysis helps you understand the examiner’s mindset—what they test repeatedly, how questions are framed, and what to expect.
With this insight, you can prioritize your preparation smartly and avoid wasting time on less important areas.
3. Mock Tests & Performance Reports
Practice is key, so we provide full-length, time-bound mock tests that simulate the real exam environment.
Each test comes with detailed performance reports, highlighting your strengths and pinpointing areas needing improvement.
Our expert faculty review your results and provide personalized feedback and strategies to boost your score.
This cycle of practice, feedback, and correction builds your exam temperament and time management skills.
4. Visual Learning Tools
Sociology can be complex, so we use diagrams, sociograms, flowcharts, and mind maps to simplify and visualize key concepts.
These tools help you retain information better and understand relationships between theories, social structures, and phenomena.
Visual aids also make revision faster and more effective, especially for tough topics like social stratification, social movements, and research methodology.
5. Custom Study Plans (30 / 60 / 90 Days)
Everyone’s background and schedule are different. That’s why we design personalized study plans tailored to your current level, strengths, weaknesses, and exam date.
Whether you have a month or three to prepare, our plans provide daily targets, weekly goals, revision cycles, and buffer time for unexpected delays.
These structured roadmaps keep you motivated, organized, and on track throughout your preparation journey.
6. 24×7 Doubt Clearing Support
Questions don’t wait for office hours—and neither do we! Our Telegram and WhatsApp groups, along with our dedicated mobile app, ensure you get your doubts resolved anytime, anywhere.
Faculty members and peer mentors are active in these groups, ready to clarify concepts, provide additional resources, or guide you through tricky problems.
This continuous support system creates a vibrant learning community, so you’re never studying alone.
VII. Why Choose Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes for UGC NET Sociology?
Choosing the right coaching can make all the difference in your UGC NET Sociology preparation journey. At Dr. Sourav Sir’s Classes, we combine years of experience, proven success, and a student-focused approach to help you unlock your full potential and crack the exam with confidence.
Here’s why thousands of aspirants trust us and keep coming back:
1. 15+ Years of Success in UGC NET Coaching
With over a decade and a half of dedicated experience, Dr. Sourav Sir and his expert team have coached thousands of students, consistently producing top-rankers and JRF awardees.
Our teaching methods have been refined over the years to focus on conceptual clarity, exam strategy, and practical application—perfect for mastering Sociology.
This legacy of success means you’re learning from someone who truly understands what it takes to succeed.
2. High JRF and NET Clearance Rates Every Session
Our students achieve some of the highest clearance rates in UGC NET Sociology, with many securing the coveted Junior Research Fellowship and Assistant Professorship eligibility.
We pride ourselves not just on enrollment numbers but on real results—students who walk away with strong knowledge and well-earned confidence.
Our track record reflects our commitment to quality teaching and personalized attention.
3. Hybrid Learning Model: Online + Offline
Whether you’re in Kolkata or any corner of India, we’ve got you covered.
Attend offline classes at our Kolkata center for a classroom experience, or join our live online batches that bring the same quality teaching directly to your home.
All sessions are recorded, so even if you miss a live class or want to revise, you have unlimited access to video lectures and study materials on our app.
This flexible model ensures that your preparation fits your lifestyle—be it a working professional, student, or homemaker.
4. Comprehensive Study Material: Notes, Classes & Doubt Support
You get meticulously prepared notes that break down complex sociological theories and data into easy-to-understand language.
Our classes supplement these notes with interactive teaching, examples, and discussions that bring Sociology alive.
Stuck on a tough concept? Our dedicated doubt clearing support ensures you’re never left behind.
We don’t just provide information—we help you internalize and apply it.
5. Personalized Progress Tracking & 1-on-1 Mentorship
Every student is unique, and we treat you as one.
You receive regular progress assessments, performance reports, and personalized feedback to identify your strengths and areas needing improvement.
Our 1-on-1 mentorship sessions offer tailored guidance on study plans, exam strategy, and even motivation.
This personal touch keeps you accountable, focused, and confident throughout your journey.
6. Weekly Practice Sheets, Flashcards & Mini Tests
Practice makes perfect, and we make practice easy and effective.
Every week, you get access to targeted practice sheets that reinforce key concepts and boost your problem-solving skills.
Our flashcards help you memorize important sociological terms, thinkers, and theories in a fun and efficient way.
Mini tests and quizzes keep you exam-ready, building speed and accuracy gradually.
These small, consistent efforts add up to big improvements.
VIII. Important Books for UGC NET Sociology Preparation
Preparing for the UGC NET Sociology exam requires a solid foundation in both classical texts and contemporary research, along with exam-focused practice materials. To help you streamline your preparation, here’s a carefully curated list of essential books, categorized by key topics of the syllabus. These books balance theoretical depth, empirical insights, and practical application to give you a comprehensive understanding of Sociology.
1. Sociological Theory
Understanding the major sociological theories and thinkers is crucial for Paper II. These books cover both classical and modern perspectives:
George Ritzer – Sociological TheoryA comprehensive guide that introduces the major theorists and schools of thought, explaining complex theories in an accessible way. Ideal for grasping functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism, and more.
Haralambos and Holborn – Sociology: Themes and PerspectivesWidely used in Indian universities, this book breaks down sociological themes and perspectives clearly, offering real-world examples and case studies to help you apply theory to social contexts.
2. Indian Society
Deep knowledge of Indian social structures and dynamics is essential for UGC NET Sociology:
M.N. Srinivas – Social Change in Modern IndiaA foundational text that explores social processes like Sanskritization, caste mobility, and rural change, with rich ethnographic examples.
Andre Beteille – Caste, Class and PowerThis classic offers a nuanced analysis of the intersections between caste, class, and power structures in Indian society, perfect for understanding contemporary sociological debates on inequality.
3. Research Methodology
For mastering research methods and data interpretation, these texts provide clear guidance on both qualitative and quantitative approaches:
C.R. Kothari – Research Methodology: Methods and TechniquesAn essential resource explaining research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis, tailored for social sciences and exam-focused study.
Bridget Somekh & Cathy Lewin – Research Methods in the Social SciencesA user-friendly guide to diverse research methods, from interviews and observations to surveys and statistical analysis, enhancing your practical research skills.
4. Social Stratification, Mobility, and Change
Explore theories and empirical studies about social hierarchies and transformations:
Dipankar Gupta – Interrogating CasteA critical examination of caste in contemporary India, challenging stereotypes and explaining its evolving role in society.
Yogendra Singh – Modernization of Indian TraditionThis book discusses the processes of modernization and their impact on traditional Indian social structures and cultural norms.
5. Globalization, Development, and Policy
Understand the sociological implications of globalization, development theories, and policy frameworks:
Anthony Giddens – Runaway WorldAn insightful analysis of globalization’s social, political, and economic effects, emphasizing interconnectedness and its challenges.
Amartya Sen – Development as FreedomA seminal work linking development with individual freedoms, rights, and capabilities, essential for grasping human development paradigms.
6. NET-Specific Preparation Guides
Focused books designed to help you navigate the UGC NET exam pattern and practice effectively:
Arihant UGC NET SociologyProvides concise theory summaries, practice questions, and previous years’ solved papers tailored specifically for UGC NET aspirants.
Trueman’s UGC NET SociologyOffers detailed syllabus coverage with extensive question banks and model tests to hone your exam-taking skills.
Upkar’s Solved Papers & Practice SetsAn invaluable resource compiling past exam questions with answers and practice sets to build confidence and time management.