Department of Sociology — The Department

Sociology is the scientific study of society and social relations. Sociologists study individuals in group contexts, ranging from couple relationships to organizations, cities, and nations. They examine patterns of social class and inequality, processes of socialization, the dynamics of inter-group relations, the criminal justice system, the origin of social problems and the effectiveness of social programs. They describe and analyze variations in income, occupation and education; ethnicity, race and culture; family and kinship; power and authority; crime and illness. Sociologists use a range of research methods to gather information about people, groups, and social institutions. Students of sociology learn how to conduct surveys, design experiments, and observe social life. They study social theories and how they can be used to understand social behavior at different times and in different places. Many courses offer opportunities to apply sociological theories and methods to practical problems and in real world settings.

The Sociology Major

For a major in sociology, the department requires a total of 30 semester hours; at least half of major courses (15 credits) must be earned in courses at the 300 level or higher. Four courses are mandatory for the major: SOCIOL 101 (Introduction to Sociology), 341 (Elements of Sociological Theory), L351 (Methods of Sociological Research) and a Senior Experience (Capstone) course which may be one of the following: SOCIOL 460, SOCIOL/CRMJUS L461, SOCIOL/CRMJUS L462, SOCIOL 469, SOCIOL 470, SOCIOL 472, SOCIOL 478 or SOCIOL 479. The department encourages completion of SOCIOL/CRMJUS L351 by the start of the junior year.

Junior or senior standing is recommended for all 300- or 400-level courses. A maximum of no more than 6 credits of sociology internship courses or 3 credits of directed study in sociology may be counted toward the major.

The Sociology Minor

For a minor in sociology the department requires at least 18 semester hours of sociology credit, including three courses required for the major (SOCIOL 101, 341, 351). Not more than 6 credits from an internship course may be counted toward the minor.