Sociology, B.A.

Program Mission Statement

Students majoring in sociology learn concepts, methods, theories and perspectives important to the study of social relationships, social structures, social institutions, and society. This field of study allows students to gain practical as well as theoretical insight into human interaction. Students majoring in sociology are concerned with the study of social life and the causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociology includes the study of each aspect of the self in relationships with others and each aspect of the social world that affects a person’s thoughts, actions and deeds.

Students majoring in sociology learn the dynamics of group behavior, the power and potential of community groups, and the implication of marriage and the family. These students must also become familiar with the literature of social problems, such as crime, violence, deviance, racism, and sexism.

Students graduating with a degree in sociology often find employment in social service agencies, law enforcement agencies, treatment centers, and rehabilitation facilities. Sociology majors are encouraged to consider further study at the graduate level.

Program Goals

The program goals are to ensure that students:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of the dominant theories and concepts in the field of Sociology by employing Sociological vocabulary.
2. Demonstrate knowledge of, and the ability to analyze critically the roles and functions, social behavioral interactions and phenomena of social groups.
3. Demonstrate proficiency in conducting scientific research and the promulgation of findings in a systematic and logical manner. Furthermore, the students will demonstrate the importance of ethical treatment in conducting research within the social sciences.

Program Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the Sociology Program, graduates will be able to:

• Identify the major concepts and theories in Sociology as well as employ a Sociological vocabulary.
• Describe and analyze the roles and functions, social behavioral interactions, and the phenomena of social groups by demonstrating critical thinking and related sociological vocabulary relevant to these important issues.
• Conduct scientific research and express the importance of ethics and the ethical treatment of test subjects in social / behavioral research.

Graduation Requirements

This degree program requires at least 120 semester hours for completion.