SOCIOLOGY
(SOC)
Sociology is the study of human society, its origins, functions and problems. It focuses on relations among people, groups, organizations, classes and cultures. Sociology explores and analyzes issues vital to our personal lives, our communities, our nation, and the world. The curriculum in sociology is designed to show students the social character of human life and the impact of varying forms of social organization on human affairs. Students are introduced to the methods by which knowledge is obtained, and may examine the results of research on such diverse topics as the family, religion, education, politics and crime. The major provides a foundation for careers in many professional fields, such as law, criminal justice and social service, and for graduate training as a professional sociologist in government, business, community agencies, research organizations or educational institutions.
The major for the B.A.: Majors follow either a general curriculum or a topical program; each provides students with a theoretical overview of the discipline and the fundamentals of its research methods and statistics. In addition, all majors are required to take course work in each of three thematic areas: (1) organizations and institutions, (2) social inequality, and (3) social issues and problems. Following completion of required courses, qualified majors will be eligible for the Advanced Track within the major. All others will complete the standard track of upper-division sociology courses in the senior year.
Students planning to declare a sociology major should discuss their plans with a department advisor. For an advising appointment call or visit the Office of Undergraduate Studies, Social Sciences 307, 621-1543.
The Advanced Track: The Advanced Track consists of two highly specialized courses tailored to the interests and career goals of the major. The first of these courses, a practicum in sociology, provides the student an opportunity to apply or practice sociology in a work or research setting. The second course, a senior capstone in sociology, provides students the opportunity to integrate and assimilate what they have learned through their course work in the major.
To qualify for the Advanced Track, majors must (1) complete their required coursework in the major, (2) achieve a minimum grade point average of 3.00 in the major; and (3) attain senior standing at the university. Majors not satisfying these requirements will be ineligible for the Advanced Track.
Special Programs and Services
Undergraduates are encouraged to become actively involved in the design of their education, and to take advantage of the opportunities and services offered by the department. Most of these services are available through the department's Office of Undergraduate Services located in Social Sciences, Room 437. The office is open five days a week and administers a wide range of programs for undergraduate majors. These programs include: (1) a comprehensive advising system designed to aid students in choosing a major, planning a course of study and in designing and pursuing a post-graduate career plan; (2) an internship program designed to give eligible majors course credit for work experience in a variety of community agencies; (3) a Majors Club designed to better integrate our majors into the intellectual and social life of the department.
More information on these and other services can be obtained by visiting the office or by reading the relevant sections in the department's Handbook for Sociology Majors, available from the department.