Sociology, BA

Introduction

The major in sociology helps to hones students’ sociological imagination, which draws the connection between social structures and individual actions.  In doing so, the sociology major provides extensive knowledge and exploration of the role that culture, social institutions, and everyday interaction play in our live, especially in regards to how these shape identity, behavior, social systems, and social inequality. Sociology majors are trained in qualitative and quantitative research skills along with tools for advanced critical thinking and theoretical application. The program contributes to a liberal arts education, prepares students for graduate training in sociology, civic and community engagement, and prepares students for careers in law, social services and related fields.

Admissions  

Program Length

Four years for a complete BA degree.  Two years for students transferring in with an AAOT degree.  Program length may vary depending upon the student’s course load and academic progress.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Employ the sociological imagination to describe how an individuals’ life experiences are shaped by social structures and categories (e.g., race, class, gender, sexuality)
• Identify and describe the theories and research methods that are foundational to sociological knowledge and research
• Apply sociological concepts and theories to understand contemporary social issues and/or public debates about these issues
• Communicate sociological concepts and/or research in a manner that is appropriate for the intended audience (e.g., academic, lay audience)
• Apply sociological theories and/or research methods to generate a sociological understanding of a topic related to a main theme in the sociological curriculum (e.g., intersectionality, identity, social control, social power)
• Prepare original works that meet American Sociological Association writing standards to convey sociological analyses