Overview
MPhil in Sociology at Nepal Open University
Program Overview
The MPhil in Sociology at Nepal Open University is a research-based postgraduate degree designed to motivate graduates towards quality research and to expand their theoretical understanding. This 1.5-year program aims to prepare students for further academic pursuits, including PhD studies, and to qualify them for roles in governmental and non-governmental agencies and higher education institutions. The program is tailored to meet global standards and local requirements, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities.
Target Groups
This program primarily targets aspiring working professionals who are unable to join conventional face-to-face education systems but wish to pursue advanced studies in social sciences disciplines such as Economics, Political Science, and Sociology.
Purpose
The main purpose of this program is to prepare human resources equipped with up-to-date and relevant knowledge, skills, and competencies to meet the demands of the current job market in both governmental and non-governmental organizations related to educational studies.
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the MPhil in Sociology will:
- Exhibit a deeper understanding of theoretical, conceptual, and philosophical frameworks in sociology.
- Utilize and apply research tools, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method approaches in sociological research.
- Adapt theories and tools flexibly for new research fields.
- Prepare write-ups for peer-reviewed international research journals.
- Conduct independent research and solve complex problems.
- Make significant contributions to the existing state of knowledge in sociology.
Salient Features
- Scholarships: The Faculty of Social Sciences and Education provides scholarships to deserving candidates as per the Government of Nepal's and NOU's rules and regulations.
Eligibility
Candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a Master's degree in a related subject (Economics, Political Science, Sociology) with at least a second division or a CGPA of 2.7.
Admission Criteria
Applicants must pass an entrance examination based on the following structure:
- Full Marks: 50
- Time: 90 Minutes
- Syllabus: Research Methodology at the Master's or equivalent level
- Question Types:
- Multiple Choice Questions: 20 Marks
- Short Answer Questions: 10 Marks
- Long-Answer Questions: 20 Marks
- Medium: English
Job Prospects
Upon successful completion, graduates can pursue careers in:
- Academic and administrative roles in educational institutions
- Research positions in educational sectors
- Development agencies
- Private organizations
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Government organizations
- Higher education institutes
Curricular Structure
Semester I (Core Courses): 12 Credits
| S. N. | Title of the Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Theories of Social Sciences | 3 |
| 2. | Research Methods in Social Sciences I | 3 |
| 3. | Research Methods in Social Sciences II | 3 |
| 4. | ICT and e-Research | 3 |
Semester II (Specialization/Concentration Courses): 15 Credits
| S. N. | Title of the Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Specialization Course | 3 |
| 2. | Specialization Course | 3 |
| 3. | Specialization Course | 3 |
| 4. | Seminar and Academic Writing | 3 |
| 5. | Conference and Publication | 3 |
Semester III (Thesis Writing): 3 Credits
| S. N. | Title of the Course | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Thesis Writing | 3 |
The MPhil program in Sociology at Nepal Open University is designed to develop highly skilled professionals capable of contributing significantly to sociological research and practice. The program offers a robust foundation for those aiming to pursue further academic studies or take on significant roles in educational and research institutions.
