Is Sociology a Good Subject for UGC NET
Hello friends, today we will know about Is Sociology a Good Subject for UGC NET. The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is a national-level exam conducted by the National Testing Agency to determine eligibility for lectureship and for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) award in Indian universities and colleges. Sociology is one of the subjects offered in the UGC NET exam.
This article analyses whether sociology is a good subject for the UGC NET exam by looking at key factors such as syllabus and exam pattern, level of competition, career prospects for sociology lecturers and researchers, and preparation strategies.
Overview of the Sociology Syllabus for UGC NET
The syllabus for the sociology paper in UGC NET is vast and covers a wide range of topics, from the basics of the subject to more complex theories and perspectives.
Key areas covered include Fundamentals of Sociology, Social Institutions, Social Inequality, Indian Society, Sociological Theories, Sociological Thinkers, Social Research Methods, and Social Change and Development.
The paper tests conceptual clarity and awareness of real-world social issues and empirical research.
The UGC NET exam for sociology requires in-depth subject knowledge coupled with analytical and application abilities. The questions demand not just recall but critical analysis, evaluation and problem-solving aptitude related to sociological concepts, theories and social phenomena.
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Level of Competition in Sociology for UGC NET
Compared to subjects like Commerce and Management, which have lakhs of candidates appearing, Sociology has moderate competition, with around 25,000 to 35,000 candidates appearing for this paper as per recent exam cycles.
The cut-off marks for JRF qualification in Sociology have ranged between 60 and 65 for the General category in the last few UGC NET exams. For the December 2018 cycle, 63 candidates qualified for JRF in Sociology out of the total sociology candidates who appeared.
So, while the competition is less intense than other popular subjects, substantial competition and thorough preparation are required to score high marks in this paper.
Career Prospects for Sociology Lecturers and Researchers
Given the rising interest in social science education, there is a significant demand for qualified & skilled sociology lecturers and professors across colleges and universities in India. Those who qualify for lectureships have ample opportunities for teaching positions with attractive pay scales.
Additionally, the JRF qualification opens up research opportunities and can lead to a career as a sociologist in think tanks, social research agencies, NGOs, social work, etc. It also makes one eligible to pursue a PhD for advanced research opportunities.
So, from a career standpoint, Sociology offers stability and growth to those who do well in UGC NET. The subject has bright prospects in both academic and research-based roles.
Preparation Strategy for UGC NET Sociology
Preparing for the sociology paper in UGC NET requires a structured approach:
- Thorough understanding of the entire syllabus – Make detailed notes topic-wise
- Reading NCERT books for fundamentals on Indian society
- Solving previous years’ papers to understand the paper pattern and important topics
- Reading research papers and journals to update subject knowledge
- Developing analytical writing skills to tackle questions based on theories
- Improving communication skills to express concepts clearly
- Practising answer writing under time constraints
Appearing for mock tests to assess preparation levels
The key is to build conceptual clarity on all elements in the vast sociology syllabus and practice answer writing regularly. One should stay updated on social issues in India and globally to relate classroom concepts to the real world.
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Conclusion about Is Sociology a Good Subject for UGC NET
Sociology is a good subject for UGC NET given its moderate competition levels, dynamic syllabus, attractive career opportunities in both lectureship and research and bright prospects for growth.
With thorough preparation over six months to 1 year on the entire sociology syllabus and question patterns, aspiring candidates can aim for high marks and a qualifying rank.
The demand for skilled sociology lecturers and social science researchers will only grow in the coming years. Hence, Sociology is a promising subject for those pursuing the UGC NET exam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The sociology syllabus for UGC NET is extensive and covers fundamentals of the subject, like basic concepts and research methods, as well as advanced theories, perspectives, social issues, and thinkers.
Key areas are Fundamentals of Sociology, Social Institutions, Inequality, Indian Society, Sociological Theories, Research Methods, Social Change and Development.
Competition in sociology papers is moderate compared to popular subjects like Management and Commerce, which have lakh+ candidates. Around 25K-35K candidates appear for sociology. But thorough preparation is still required to qualify.
There are attractive career opportunities after clearing NET in sociology, like – lectureship positions across colleges and universities, research roles in think tanks/NGOs, eligibility for PhD, and scope for growth as subject experts.
Yes, sociology can be a high-scoring paper in NET for those who have thoroughly prepared the syllabus, including theories, perspectives, empirical research, social issues, and answer writing practice. Clearing the Exam is achievable with 6-12 months of planned preparation.
Strategies include – covering the entire syllabus through notes, reading journals/research papers, practicing previous years’ papers, developing analytical writing skills, appearing for mock tests, and working on time management for the Exam. The focus should be on conceptual clarity.
To study sociology for UGC NET, follow these four key points:
1 Thoroughly revise important topics by going through relevant textbooks and reference materials.
2 Understand the concepts and make notes for quick reference.
3 Take a quick revision from your notes, which will help consolidate your understanding and refresh your memory.
4 Pay special attention to revising the essential topics frequently appearing in the UGC NET exam. Focus on crucial theories, thinkers, and sociological perspectives.
Before the exam, ensure you are composed and relaxed.
Practice mindfulness techniques, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and have a positive mindset to perform your best on exam day.
At Mantram UGC NET Sociology Coaching Institute, with the proper guidance and study material, it is easy to pass the UGC NET Sociology exam. Our institute is dedicated to providing the best coaching for UGC NET Sociology, both offline and online. We have experienced faculty members specializing in sociology and are well-versed in the exam pattern and syllabus.
Our comprehensive study material is designed to cover all the essential topics, ensuring that students thoroughly understand the subject. Join Mantram UGC NET Sociology Coaching for expert guidance and increase your chances of success in the exam.
UGC NET Sociology refers to the National Eligibility Test (NET) in the Sociology field conducted annually by National Testing Agency (NTA). UGC NET is a competitive examination conducted to determine the eligibility of candidates for the role of Assistant Professor and to award Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in various subjects, including Sociology.
Sociology is the scientific study of human society, relationships, and behavior. UGC NET Sociology tests the candidates’ knowledge and understanding of various sociological concepts, theories, methods, and research in the field. The examination assesses the candidates’ ability to analyze social issues critically, interpret sociological data, and apply sociological perspectives to different contexts.
The UGC NET Sociology exam consists of two papers: Paper 1 and Paper 2. Paper 1 is a general paper that tests the candidates’ teaching and research aptitude, reasoning ability, and general awareness. Paper 2 is specific to Sociology and assesses the candidates’ knowledge of sociological theories, research methods, social institutions, social stratification, social change, gender studies, and other relevant topics.
Candidates who qualify for the UGC NET Sociology exam are eligible for the role of Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges. Additionally, those who qualify for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) can pursue research in Sociology and receive financial support from the UGC.
It’s important to note that the information provided here is based on the knowledge available up to September 2021, and there might have been changes or updates to the UGC NET Sociology examination pattern or eligibility criteria. It is advisable to refer to the official UGC website or the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Gaining admission into a PhD program is possible without holding a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) by participating in entrance examinations offered by various institutions nationwide. Success in these examinations and fulfilling the requisite eligibility criteria can pave the way for admission into a PhD program.
Comparatively, the UPSC examination is often cited as India’s most challenging competitive exam. Approximately 10 to 12 lakh candidates apply each year following the UPSC’s announcement. Yet, only a select few make it to the final selection list, underscoring the rigorous and competitive nature of the UPSC selection process.
Those aspiring to qualify for the UGC NET must possess a postgraduate degree from a university or college recognized by the UGC. Eligible fields of study include, but are not limited to, Electronic Science, Humanities, Computer Science & Applications, and Social Science, among others.