Department of

Sociology

Kiit school of Liberal Studies

About us

The Department of Sociology is dedicated to fostering a thorough and responsible understanding of contemporary society. By staying informed about global and local changes in social life, economics, politics, culture, and daily living, we equip our students to critically analyze their surroundings with strong sociological foundations and interdisciplinary awareness. Our programs emphasize emerging global issues such as health, security, poverty, sustainability, technology, law, and governance. We blend classical and contemporary approaches to key themes like family and kinship, religion and ritual, social hierarchies, rural and urban dynamics, art and aesthetics, and sensory experiences. Our teaching methods adhere to the highest standards of social science excellence, emphasizing rigorous methodologies and theoretical discussions.

Our department focuses on research relevant to the Indian subcontinent while fostering analytical, ethnographic, and archival connections globally. Faculty members actively research and publish on topics like science and technology studies, sonic and visual cultures, religion and identity, mind and body, climate change, social ecologies, law and governance, and bio philosophies. Their participation in ongoing debates highlights our emerging leadership in sociology.

The B.A. Sociology (Research) degree at KIIT offers undergraduates the chance to write a supervised research thesis, preparing them for careers in sociology or social anthropology. The program combines theoretical coursework with practical training, including field visits, internships, workshops, and student-led discussions. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in development, media, journalism, bureaucracy, writing, and other emerging fields.

The Master’s program in Sociology offers a comprehensive exploration of social systems, sociological theories, research methodologies, and specialized fields such as the sociology of knowledge, gender, social psychology, anthropological theories, cultural studies, Indian social thought, ethnic minorities and marginalized groups, social ecology, demography, and the sociology of science and medicine. The program includes various courses, with half dedicated to sociological theories, key thinkers, and research methods. The remaining courses delve into various aspects of Indian society, including social stratification, family and kinship structures, politics, economy, religion, urbanization, population, education, and the dynamics of social change. This well-rounded approach equips students with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into the complexities of society.

Our prestigious, fully funded Ph.D. program includes a year of comprehensive training in theory and methodology from multiple perspectives. Our competitive cohort, drawn from diverse social sciences and other disciplines, participates in graduate seminars and classrooms across the school, promoting a nuanced approach to research.