Sociology Major
"Sociology offers a perspective, a view of the world. The sociological perspective (or imagination) opens a window onto unfamiliar worlds, and offers a fresh look at familiar worlds. As you explore literature in sociology, you will find yourself looking at your own worlds in a different light. As you view other worlds, or your own, the sociological perspective enables you to gain a new vision of social life."
— James M. Henslin

Sociology involves a special way of thinking, a sociological imagination. It helps us see that we shape and build society by our actions and that we are also shaped by society. Developing a global perspective and understanding social change are part of that imagination. The scope of sociology ranges from the study of passing encounters between individuals on the sidewalk to the study of global social developments such as the rise of Islamic fundamentalism.

The Sociology Department has always encouraged internships, and we are now developing a new curriculum plan for students to create enhanced opportunities for service learning and professional development.

Graduates of the sociology program pursue a wide range of positions in areas such as human resource departments, social service agencies and hospitals, research centers, and educational institutions. Sociology also provides a good background for those wishing to pursue graduate studies in human services, social work, social policy and social science research, and law and criminal justice.

The following courses are required for the sociology major:

• SO 201 Introduction to Sociology
• SO 205 Social Problems
• SO 301 Social Research Seminar
• SO 309 Methods of Sociological Research
• SO 402 Coordinating Seminar
• Five elective sociology courses (of which one may be a social work course)

Sociology Major Curriculum: Four Years
The following is a sample four-year curriculum schedule for the sociology major. Note: It is recommended that sociology majors take at least one course in history and one in political science.

First Year
Semester I                                 Cr.                Semester II                 Cr.

Second Year
Semester I                                Cr.                Semester II                  Cr.

Third Year
Semester I                                Cr.                Semester II                   Cr.

Fourth Year
Semester I                                Cr.                Semester II                  Cr.

* One course beyond MA 100, or achieving a score of 3, 4, or 5 on the Advanced Placement calculus test. Students who do not achieve a math SAT score of 440 will complete MA 100 prior to a higher-level math course. MA 100 may be waived by passing a competency exam prepared by the Math Department.

** Students must have taken:

• SO 201 Introduction to Sociology
• SO 205 Social Problems
• SO 309 Methods of Sociological Research

*** Students must have taken:

(SO301 may be taken in the second semester senior year.)

Sociology Major Curriculum: Three Years
Students who want to gain early entry into the workforce or graduate programs and are looking for an added academic challenge may earn a bachelor's degree in the sociology major. These students will enjoy individualized attention and advising, participation in a motivated community of learners, and the rewards that come from early completion of a bachelor's degree.

Eligibility
Typically, qualified candidates will have scored at least 1200 on the SAT and have a cumulative high school grade point average (GPA) of 3.4 or scored 1100 on the SAT with a 3.7 GPA. Students with exceptional promise who do not meet the criteria may also be considered on an individual basis.

Once admitted to the program, a student must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Although this option is available, a student enrolled in the three-year option may opt to slow his or her sequence and complete the program in three-and-a-half or four years.

The following is a sample three-year curriculum schedule for the sociology major.

First Year
Semester I                               Cr.    Semester II                            Cr.

Second Year
Semester I                              Cr.    Semester II                             Cr.

Third Year
Semester I                               Cr.    Semester II                            Cr.