The Department of Sociology at Jamia Millia Islamia draws inspiration from the university’s founding vision that education must be meaningful, inclusive, and socially engaged. We believe that knowledge is best acquired when it connects with the everyday lives of learners, acknowledges their diverse backgrounds, and respects their varied rhythms of learning. Our teaching and research are shaped by this commitment, creating classrooms that are dialogic and inclusive, and that link sociological theory with lived realities at the local, national, and global levels.

At the highest level, the Department offers the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) in Sociology, which is designed to foster advanced scholarship and original research. Doctoral scholars in the Department work on a wide range of themes including gender, social stratification, urban life, minority studies, religion, ecology, and globalization. They are trained in classical and contemporary theory, advanced methodology, and field-based research, often adopting interdisciplinary approaches that connect sociology with other social sciences and the humanities. Research at this level emphasizes ethical practices and community engagement, ensuring that knowledge is created responsibly and respectfully. Ph.D. scholars are encouraged to present their work at national and international forums, publish in reputed journals, and contribute to academic debates as well as to larger societal concerns, thereby preparing themselves for careers in academia, research, policy, and leadership.

At the postgraduate level, the Department offers the M.A. in Sociology, which provides rigorous training in sociological thought and research methods. The programme blends classical and contemporary perspectives with strong methodological foundations in both qualitative and quantitative traditions. Students develop their capacity for independent analysis through Dissertation-I and Dissertation-II, which are undertaken under faculty supervision and often involve engagement with external institutions, organizations, and communities. This emphasis on research ensures that postgraduate students not only deepen their understanding of theory but also learn to apply it in real social contexts, preparing them for a wide range of professional and academic careers.

At the undergraduate level, the Department now offers a Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) with a Major in Sociology. This programme allows students to combine their major with carefully chosen minor papers, and to explore interdisciplinary interests through Multi-Disciplinary Courses (MDCs), Value-Added Courses (VACs), Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs), and Ability Enhancement Courses (AECs). Students acquire a grounding in sociological concepts and methods while also developing skills that are relevant to contemporary challenges. A distinctive feature of the FYUP is the undergraduate research project in the final year, where students carry out supervised research that connects classroom learning with real-life social issues. This approach ensures that students graduate not only with knowledge of sociology but also with the skills of inquiry, critical thinking, and analysis.

The curriculum across all levels is interdisciplinary in nature and is regularly updated through department-wide discussions and the Board of Studies. It addresses subjects of contemporary significance such as globalization, ethnicity, critical pedagogy, sociology of law, Islam and Muslims in South Asia, city and space, indigenous voices, and gender and ecology. At the same time, the Department also engages with Indian Knowledge Systems by drawing on indigenous philosophies, community practices, oral traditions, and ethical frameworks that have historically shaped Indian society. This allows students to experience sociology as both a modern discipline and as a dialogue with the rich intellectual traditions of India.

Beyond the classroom, the Department emphasizes co-curricular and extension activities. An active Extension Lecture Series brings leading scholars and professionals to interact with students and faculty. The Students’ Subject Association organizes inter-university seminars where young scholars can present their ideas and learn through dialogue with peers. Students of the Department also participate in the NSS and NCC programmes of the university, cultivating civic responsibility, leadership, and a culture of social service.

All research in the Department, whether by students or faculty, is guided by strong ethical values. We acknowledge the voices of individuals, groups, and communities who contribute to research alongside textual and archival sources. We emphasize transparency, fairness, and the importance of cross-verifying information and ensuring informed participation in fieldwork. Wherever possible, feedback is sought from participants and communities before finalizing theses, articles, or books, so that they are not misrepresented.

Through its academic programmes, research culture, and outreach activities, the Department of Sociology combines academic rigor with social relevance. It seeks to train students as critical thinkers, independent researchers, and responsible citizens who can contribute meaningfully in diverse fields, including academia, media, public policy, development, administration, and the creative industries. In this way, the Department continues to uphold the educational mission of Jamia Millia Islamia: to nurture knowledge that is inclusive, transformative, rooted in Indian traditions of wisdom, and deeply connected to society.