45 S.H. (Minor Required)
Sociology examines how social experiences and social structure shape beliefs and behavior. As one of the social sciences, sociology stresses the use of scientific research methods and theories to study human social behavior in a variety of settings. The required courses are also designed to provide experience in building and testing theory as well as collecting and evaluating data. A degree in sociology provides well-developed communication and research skills, assets that prove essential in many professions.
The BA Sociology program not only contributes to the overall liberal arts education of students, but it also teaches valuable analytical skills that include understanding and appreciating the experiences of diverse groups in society, identifying the various causes of social problems, and the application of quantitative and qualitative reasoning. At the completion of the BA Sociology program, students will be able to (1) understand sociological research, (2) understand sociological perspectives, (3) communicate effectively, and (4) understand social equality and social inequality. These skills prepare students for a wide variety of careers including business, government, human services, and public and private research as well as graduate programs. The program emphasizes developing these skills through the integration of classroom study with supervised field instruction.
Students are encouraged to meet frequently with their advisor to design the most effective program for their future career and educational plans. For example, students who are interested in a future career with families should consider taking SOC 212 - Sociology of Families for their sociology foundation course, SOC 412 - Sociology of Gender and Sexuality and SOC 439 - Sociology of Disabilities as their social inequalities courses, and △ SOC 435 - Advanced Topics in Family Sociology and △ SOC 450 - Sociology of Aging as part of their sociology elective courses; students who are interested in a future career in a human service organization should consider taking SOC 423 - Race Relations and Minority Groups as part of their social inequalities courses, SOC 334 - Sociology of Education and SOC 438 - Health and Human Services Organizations as part of their sociology elective courses.
Note: Students may major in Sociology (SOC) and minor in Gerontology (SGER) - students may not count more than nine credits from a Sociology (SOC) major toward a minor in Gerontology (SGER). Students may not major in Sociology (SOC) and minor in Sociology (SOCG).
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