Course overview
Here’s what you can expect from our courses
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Gain nuanced social perspectives
Gain a fresh & nuanced understanding of social relationships, cultures, and institutions through key subjects like sociological thoughts, social stratification, culture, personality & society, sociology of development, and more through this online MA in Sociology.
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Learn at
your paceOur courses are designed for you to engage and learn at your own pace. Attend live sessions or catch up through recorded as per your schedule and engage in discussion on our platforms at any time. Access the advanced digital learning platform from anywhere with your phone, laptop, or desktop.
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Fully online experience
Benefit from a 100% online experience with zero compromise on quality through online enrollment, orientation, classes, assignments, projects, examinations, and placement drives. Get assistance from dedicated course mentors and 24×7 student support.
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Experienced
facultyOur faculty comprises experienced individuals who are experts in their fields. who amplify the value of practical insights and allow you to create your own path to succeed in the future. Our pedagogy introduces real-world case studies that will enhance and develop your critical thinking skills.
What you can expect to learn
In the next 24 months | 4 semesters
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1
Semester
- Introduction to Sociology
- Sociological Thoughts
- Social Stratification in India
- Gender and Society
- Sociology of Globalization
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2
Semester
- Classical Sociological Theories
- Perspectives of Indian Society
- Rural and Urban Sociology
- Sociology of Family and Kinship
- Environment and Climate Change
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3
Semester
- Contemporary Sociological Theories
- Culture, Personality, and Society
- Research Methodology
- Sociology of Religion
- Sociology of Ethnicity and Nationalism
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4
Semester
- Sociology of Development
- Sociology of Health
- Social Movements in India
- Participatory Sociology (Dissertation)
100% flexible learning
Get attractive scholarships
Exclusive scholarships designed for defense personnel, differently-abled people, alumni of SMU, and learners from Sikkim & other Northeast regions of India.
Get a prestigious degree
Globally recognized and widely accepted by governments and organizations, the online degrees offered by Sikkim Manipal University are at par with on-campus degrees and open doors to better professional opportunities.

Questions you might have
What is an MA in Sociology Degree?
A Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology is a postgraduate degree program that provides students with advanced knowledge of sociological concepts like human social behavior, relationships, and societal structures through well-defined coursework focusing on understanding the course through research and theoretical analysis.
Why choose this online MA in Sociology degree from Manipal universities?
Here are the highlights of Sikkim Manipal University’s MA Sociology degree-
- UGC-entitled: The online MA Sociology program is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC)
- NAAC A+ Accredited University: SMU is a NAAC A+ accredited university, which guarantees the quality of education and the credibility of the institution.
- Ranked Among Top 200 Universities in NIRF: SMU is among the best universities in India ranking in the band of 151-200 according to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) list of top universities.
- Expert Faculty & Industry-Focused Curriculum: The course content is planned and taught by experts. Also, the curriculum is revised periodically to comply with industry standards.
- 100% Online with Flexible Scheduling: High quality anytime and anywhere learning is ideal for working professionals or graduates who want to learn new skills without interrupting their career.
What are the eligibility criteria for this Online MA in Sociology course? Who can apply?
Candidates must have completed 10+2+3-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university/institution, or an equivalent qualification as recognized by the Association of Indian Universities.
What is the duration of MA in Sociology program?
Like an on-campus MA Sociology program, the online MA also is a two-year degree program consisting of four semesters. However, students can choose to complete the degree at their own pace in a maximum of 4 years.
What is the admission process for this online MA in Sociology degree?
Here’s a guide to help you begin your online MA program in Sociology degree at Sikkim Manipal University:
- Step 1: Fill in your basic, education, and work experience-related details and pay the application fee to register.
- Step 2: Pay the admission fee for the first semester/year or full program.
- Step 3: Upload supporting documents and submit your application.
- Step 4: The university will evaluate your documents to confirm your admission.
What are the MA in Sociology course subjects?
The online MA Sociology course consists of various core subjects like Contemporary Sociological Theories, Culture, Personality, and Society, Research Methodology, Sociology of Religion, Sociology of Development, Sociology of Health, and Social Movements in India.
Are flexible payment options available for these courses? What is the eligibility criteria?
Yes, students have access to various payment methods. The full program fee upfront, can choose to pay it annually, semester-wise, or use a no-cost EMI (for Indian students) facility with the bank that is financially partnered.
Is a scholarship available for these courses? What is the eligibility criteria?
Sikkim Manipal University offers fee waiver scholarships to students from special categories.
CATEGORY | SCHOLARSHIP CREDIT | ELIGIBILITY / DOCUMENTS |
Candidates from Sikkim & Northeast region | 30% | Valid address proof |
Divyaang | 20% | Valid certificate from an authorized doctor |
Defence personnel | 20% | Personnel/Service/IC number |
Alumni of SMU (Sikkim Manipal University) | 20% | UG/PG alumni of SMU |
OTHER CONCESSIONS | DISCOUNT | ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA |
Fee concession | 10% | Upfront payment of full program fee |
5% | Upfront payment of annual fee |
How can I access the learning materials for this course?
Every study resource such as videos, quizzes, PDFs, and recorded lectures can be accessed at any time through the Online Manipal Learning Management System (LMS).
How are the classes conducted?
Classes are delivered through live sessions and recorded video lectures via the LMS. Students can also engage in conversation in the discussion forum.
Will there be exams for this online MA in Sociology program?
The students are required to take term-end exams, and any other applicable assessments to fulfil the criteria to be eligible for award of degree.
What skills will I learn from an MA in Sociology degree?
Below are some of the skills that can be learned from MA in Sociology Degree at SMU:
- Sociological theory analysis
- Qualitative research methods
- Quantitative data analysis
- Fieldwork and ethnography
- Social policy evaluation
- Critical thinking in social contexts
- Demographic analysis
- Cultural and social trend analysis
- Survey design and implementation
- Interpretation of social statistics
Will I get a degree after completing this program?
Yes, all eligible students who have successfully fulfilled every criterion will be awarded their degree certificates via in-person convocation in the Sikkim Manipal University campus, or via mailed via courier.
Who should opt for this online MA in Sociology course?
Anyone who is looking to enhance their career, switch fields, or study while working can definitely consider it. It is a great option for people who are not able to go to physical classes because of lack of time or other commitments.
How are online MA programs different from regular MA courses?
Feature | Online MA | Regular MA |
Mode of Learning | 100% Online via LMS, live and recorded lectures | In-person, classroom-based sessions |
Flexibility | Learn anytime, anywhere | Fixed schedule, location-bound |
Work-Study Balance | Can study while working | Often requires a career break |
Cost | Generally, more affordable | Typically, higher due to campus & hostel fees |
Networking Opportunities | Virtual peer interactions & forums | Face-to-face networking & campus events |
Access to Faculty | Scheduled live sessions, discussion boards | Classroom interaction |
Recognition | UGC-entitled, valid & industry-recognized | Equally recognized and valued |
Can an online MA in Sociology degree get you a job?
Yes, online master’s degrees offered by Sikkim Manipal University are tailored for industry requirements, equipping you with theoretical knowledge and practical skills that employers seek, besides being job ready.
Are online MA classes more affordable than regular MA classes?
The online MA Sociology program at Sikkim Manipal University does not require work experience. Though it is always good to have work experience as it can provide context to the learning and also make classroom discussions more interesting.
Is work experience mandatory for this MA program? What qualifies as work experience?
The online MA program at Sikkim Manipal University does not require work experience. Though it is always good to have work experience as it can provide context to the learning and also make classroom discussions more interesting.
Are online degrees by Online Manipal credible and valid?
Yes, all online degree programs offered through Online Manipal are UGC-entitled, making them equivalent to on-campus degrees.