Bachelor of Arts Major in Sociology

Sociology offers students an understanding of social structure and interaction and an appreciation of the complexities of human societies, large and small. The program provides groundwork for careers in areas as diverse as criminal justice, law, journalism, social services, urban planning, government, education and business. Specialized courses prepare students who seek a professional career in sociology to pursue graduate studies. Students are encouraged to work closely with the faculty in developing programs best suited to their career goals. Whatever their concentrations may be, all students of sociology should acquire an appreciation of the manifestations of the human spirit and its milieu. Mission Statement In sociology, students will develop a sociological imagination that places individual life experiences in the context of the social and cultural structures that shape them. The department of sociology emphasizes the role of social inequalities in shaping social interactions and institutions, leading to both constraints and opportunities for individuals and groups. The program provides students with the fundamental knowledge of basic sociological concepts, research methods and theoretical perspectives and fosters development of their analytic skills. Career Opportunities Undergraduate study in sociology leads to employment in a very wide variety of careers. Many take positions in the social services or social work, education, governmental administration and planning, the criminal justice system or public health. Others have gone into the business world or international affairs. Study in sociology provides an excellent base for further study in law, business administration, government, public health, urban planning and similar fields. Typical First-Year Program Students who major in Sociology should use their freshman year to build a strong liberal arts background. The major program is developed so that it can be completed within a minimum period of two years. Students who want to explore interests in sociology major may want to take any of several sociology courses that are in the general education program. Goals Critical, Conceptual and Analytical Thinking: Students should be able to analyze and understand contemporary and historical social events and policies, both micro and macro, by using key concepts from Foundations of Sociology; Social Psychology; Social Inequality; and Social Theory. Inquiry and Evidence: Students should be able to define, design and implement significant and ethically appropriate research projects in sociology. They should also be able to critically evaluate the published research of others. Communication Competence: Students should be able to make clear and effective presentations of their work in writing and orally, in public presentations. Experiential and Service Learning: Students should be able to effectively interact in off-campus social settings and be able to meet the responsibilities and expectations inherent in these settings. Students should be able to sociologically describe and analyze these social settings and their own experiences within them. Students should also be able to engage with sociological knowledge to develop and execute independent research projects. Informed Citizenship, Social Inequality and Justice: Students should be aware of, and understand the social and cultural issues raised by the facts of diversity and inequality in society, including significant variations by race, class, gender, age and sexuality, and be engaged as citizens in addressing these issues in a sociologically informed manner.