Sociology

The mission of the Department of Society, Culture and Languages is to offer a broad-based liberal arts education with an emphasis on cultural, global, and political dynamics.  The department provides a combination of theoretical, scientific, and practical approaches to understanding and solving human problems. Issues of gender, race, class, and culture as well as hands on learning are emphasized throughout the curriculum. Our goal is to graduate students with marketable skills that prepare them for entry-level positions in social services or for graduate study in related areas.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology provides the student with a broad-base exposure to theories and methods, as well as a wide range of current social issues. The student will also receive extensive interdisciplinary work in the fields of anthropology and psychology. These strong academic foundations will prepare the student for a wide range of academic and professional opportunities. Students from this major have chosen to continue their education in fields including, sociology, social work, law, economics, environmental studies and public health. They have also chosen to work directly with social deviance, criminal justice, as well as other areas of social service.

In addition to the traditional approaches to sociology, there are two unique elements to this program. First, students will complete an internship. This will help students explore experiential learning, applications of sociology to the real world, and undertake career explorations. Second, students will participate in a semester-long applied sociology experience. With this experience a student can choose to study abroad, work in a variety of agencies, programs and organizations, or complete an intensive research project.

Overall, this program will provide students with a strong foundation for understanding today's social issues and problems. The student will also have a wide range of skills and experiences that will enhance their future educational and career opportunities as well as enable them to be a more active and aware citizen.

1. The sociological imagination.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • describe how Sociology is distinct from other social sciences.
   • apply the sociological imagination to social phenomena
2. The role of sociological theory.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • describe the role of theory in building sociological knowledge.
   • compare and contrast the different theoretical perspectives.
   • apply these theories to social conditions.
3. The nature of evidence in sociology.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • identify the basic methodological approaches in building sociological knowledge.
   • compare and contrast various research methodologies.
   • design and complete a written research project.
   • critically assess published research.
4. Data analysis.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • understand the role of data analysis in building sociological knowledge and testing theory.
   • use computer software for statistical analysis.
   • understand appropriate statistical techniques.
   • draw valid conclusions from the data analysis.
5. How cultural and social structures operate.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • describe different social institutions and their various influences on the individual.
   • explain how the aforementioned institutions are interrelated.
   • evaluate them using sociological theory.
6. The diversity of human societies.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • describe the significance of variation by race, class, gender, religion and age.
   • explain patterns and variations using sociological theory.
   •  justify policy recommendations to address social inequalities.
7. Communicate sociology effectively.
   ​Students will be able to:
   • produce well written papers that clearly express sociological knowledge.
   • clearly express sociological knowledge in verbal presentations.
   • demonstrate critical thinking.

A student with a major in another department may minor in Sociology with the permission of the Society, Culture and Languages Department Chair. Eighteen hours of approved course work is required for the Minor in Sociology as follows:

We offer qualified students the option of participating in our Honors Program and graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member.

See Undergraduate Admissions.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees for subsequent years may vary. Other expenses include books and housing. For more information regarding tuition and fees, please consult the Financial Information section of this catalog.