UGC NET Sociology 2025 exam is significant for postgraduates of Sociology with the objective of turning into Assistant Professors or pursuing research with the help of a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities. The exam not only tests scholastic knowledge but also critical thinking and analysis skills on central sociological principles and issues of contemporary society. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam provides access to a variety of opportunities in teaching, research institutes, policy formulation, social work, and so on. Regardless of whether your passion is for teaching, research, or assisting in the development of society, UGC NET Sociology can prove to be a turning point toward your professional career.
Also Read: UGC NET 2025
What is UGC NET Sociology?
UGC NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) is held twice a year for measuring the eligibility of teaching posts of Assistant Professorship and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). The Sociology subject (Subject Code – 05) is one of the major subjects under the category of Social Sciences. It includes topics from classical sociological theories to contemporary social phenomena such as caste, gender, globalization, and development.
Also Read: UGC NET Application Form 2025
UGC NET Sociology Eligibility 2025
To submit an application for UGC NET Sociology 2025, you should satisfy the following eligibility conditions:
UGC NET Sociology Educational Qualification
- Master’s degree in Sociology or any other subject equivalent from a recognized university.
- Minimum Marks Required:
- General/EWS: 55%
- SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/Third Gender: 50%
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
UGC NET Sociology Exam Pattern 2025
The exam consists of two papers in an all-day, single session examination. Both the papers are objective / multiple-choice and carried out in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
Paper I | Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 |
3 Hours (Combined) |
Paper II | Sociology (Subject-specific) | 100 | 200 |
UGC NET Sociology Last 60 Days Master Plan | UGC NET Paper 2 Sociology Strategy | Juhi Mam
UGC NET Sociology Syllabus 2025 Paper 2
The UGC NET Sociology syllabus covers both classical theories and present-day issues relevant to society. Key units include:
- Sociological Theory – Comte, Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Parsons, Merton
- Research Methodology and Methods – Qualitative & quantitative research, sampling, hypothesis, statistics
- Basic Concepts – Society, culture, socialization, norms, values
- Social Institutions – Family, marriage, religion, kinship, economy
- Social Stratification and Mobility – Caste, class, race, ethnicity, gender
- Social Change and Development – Globalization, liberalization, modernization, urbanization
- Indian Society – Caste system, tribal issues, agrarian structure, rural-urban divide
- Population and Society – Demography, migration, population policies
- Sociology of Development – Development discourse, sustainable development
- Contemporary Issues – Environmental concerns, social movements, identity politics, human rights
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus For Paper 1 and Paper 2
UGC NET Sociology Question Papers 2024
The UGC NET Sociology Question Paper 2024 is a must-have for candidates preparing for the next exam cycle. Administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the UGC NET Paper 2 for Sociology tests candidates on their subject knowledge and conceptual understanding of important sociological theories, thinkers, and methods.
Exam Name | Shift | Paper | Download Link |
UGC NET Sociology June 2024 | Shift 2 | Paper 2 |
UGC NET Sociology Previous Year Question Papers
UGC NET Sociology Previous Year Question Papers (PYQs) are the most effective study tools for the exams. They allow aspirants to know the exam pattern, significant topics, and difficulty level of the real exam. Solving PYQs enables candidates to gauge their preparation and enhance the time management technique while taking the test.
Exam Name | Year | Download PDF |
UGC NET Sociology | 2023 | |
UGC NET Sociology | 2022 | |
UGC NET Sociology | 2021 | |
UGC NET Sociology | 2020 | |
UGC NET Sociology | 2018 |
Also Read: UGC NET Preparation Tips 2025
UGC NET Sociology Preparation Tips 2025
To prepare well for UGC NET Sociology 2025, adopt these expert-recommended strategies:
- Understand the Syllabus & Exam Pattern: Syllabus break-up unit-wise and determining points of strength and weakness. Arrange the units in order of weightage and interest.
- UGC NET Sociology Books 2025
- Haralambos and Holborn – Sociology: Themes and Perspectives
- Anthony Giddens – Sociology
- George Ritzer – Sociological Theory
- IGNOU Notes – Sociology MA material
- NTA UGC NET Sociology by Arihant / Trueman’s
- UGC NET Sociology previous year papers: Look for patterns, frequently asked questions, and your own accuracy. Working on at least 10 years’ worth of papers assists with confidence.
- Emphasize Theories & Thinkers: Master the work of important sociologists. Make flashcards for theorists, definitions, and examples.
- UGC NET Sociology Mock Tests & Time Management: Practice mock tests in regular intervals to enhance speed and get used to the exam pattern. Review your errors and improve upon them.
- Stay Up to Date with Current Affairs: Track social movements, government initiatives, caste/gender discussions, and environment news.
Why Opt for Sociology for UGC NET?
- High utility in academic, policymaking, and social service domains
- Interdisciplinary uses in education, development studies, gender studies, etc.
- Increased demand for sociologists as think tank researchers in NGOs and international institutions
- Very good platform for Ph.D., fellowship, and civil service preparations
Also Read: Career Options After UGC NET June 2025 Exam
Career Opportunities After UGC NET Sociology 2025
Clearing UGC NET in Sociology provides a broad spectrum of academic, research, and professional opportunities. Whether you want to teach, do research, or work in social development fields, this qualification serves as a solid foundation. Some of the notable career options are:
Assistant Professor of Sociology
- Become qualified to teach in Indian universities and colleges. With NET-JRF, you can go for a fully funded Ph.D. as well as apply for teaching jobs.
Research Fellow
- Become a Junior Research Fellow in esteemed institutions such as JNU, TISS, IITs, or ICSSR and work on influential research in social problems, policies, or development studies.
Policy Analyst / Think Tanks
- Collaborate with government and non-governmental policy research institutes like NITI Aayog, PRS Legislative Research, or Centre for Policy Research.
Sociologist / Social Scientist
- Work with UNESCO, WHO, NGOs, or research foundations in comprehending and addressing social issues such as inequality, gender, poverty, or education.
Development Sector Jobs
- Opportunities with NGOs, CSR arms of corporates, and international development agencies (UNDP, UNICEF) operating in the areas of social welfare, education, health, and rural development.
Civil Services & Public Sector
- Most UGC NET Sociology candidates also sit for UPSC, State PCS, or other government exams, where a strong Sociology background is a big plus.
Content Developer / Author
- Be a curriculum designer, textbook author, or content writer for EdTech platforms teaching social sciences or competitive exams.
Sociology Coach or Mentor
- Open your own UGC NET Sociology coaching or work on online learning websites as a faculty member.
Also Read: UGC NET Result 2025
Conclusion
UGC NET Sociology 2025 is not only a qualifying examination, but it is an entry point to scholarly merit, influential research, and social change. Knowing the syllabus thoroughly, planning well, and regular practice can make you crack the examination and bag coveted positions like Assistant Professorships, Junior Research Fellowships, policy positions, and more. Regardless of whether your aspiration is to be a teacher, a writer, or an agent of social change, this exam can serve as a cornerstone for building your career. Prepare early, be consistent, and trust your preparation!
UGC NET Sociology 2025 FAQs
Sociology’s subject code in UGC NET is 05.
No, you must hold a Master’s degree in Sociology or a directly related subject approved by UGC.
Suggested books are Haralambos & Holborn, Anthony Giddens, George Ritzer, and IGNOU MA Sociology Notes.
Both Paper I and Paper II are objective types (MCQs).
There is no restriction on attempts for Assistant Professorship. For JRF, the age is 30 years (with relaxations).