Sociology

College of Arts and Sciences

222 Williams Hall, 419-372-2294

Sociology is the study of relations among individuals, relations between individuals and society, and relations among the systems and structures of society. A sociology major is excellent preparation for many professions.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in sociology are expected to:

• Apply a sociological perspective, built upon an understanding of basic sociological constructs and theories, to various areas of social life;
• Explicate the diverse ways in which sociologists gather, interpret, and evaluate data;
• Articulate sociologically informed opinions and arguments concerning social and behavioral phenomena, and critically read and understand sociological argument;
• Describe the similarities and dissimilarities of behaviors, attitudes, values, beliefs, and opinions across populations and subpopulations.

Major, Bachelor of Arts (33 hours) - minor required - Fall 2020 course requirements

Majors and minors with specific career aspirations (including Honors in Sociology) may wish to concentrate course selections in one of the following areas:

Criminology/Corrections — This concentration studies the nature of criminal law, the causes and consequences of criminal behavior, and the ways in which society deals with criminal offenders. Criminology is excellent preparation for careers in both the adult and juvenile justice systems, including police departments, court systems, and the probation and corrections networks within each. Electives include, but are not limited to:

SOC 2160, 3190, 3400, 3410, 4410, 4420, 4450, 4610

Family and Social Services — This concentration prepares students for careers in agencies responsible for the planning, delivery, and administration of services and resources for the well-being of individuals and families. Coursework provides a strong background for management decisions which must reflect an understanding of family dynamics—produced from social and individual variables including gender, age, race, and class—and the interactions of those dynamics with social institutions generally and human service programs in particular. Electives include, but are not limited to:

SOC 2160, 3130, 3170, 3190, 3410, 3610, 4040, 4170, 4600, 4610

Population Studies — This concentration examines the composition of human populations, communities, and organizations as they adapt to their environments. Basic issues emphasized include the development of technical skills, family relationships, and international population issues such as immigration. The curriculum provides a breadth of training for careers in business planning, labor-force analysis, and economic development. Population analysts are employed in all levels of government and private business. Electives include, but are not limited to:

SOC 2120, 2160, 3130, 3610, 4040, 4140, 4190, 4200

Minor in Sociology (21 hours)
A student minoring in sociology is strongly encouraged to complete SOC 2680, 2690, 3020, and 4800. (SOC 4890 cannot be used to complete sociology minor requirements.)

Internships
Any concentration may involve cooperative education placements or internships which offer an opportunity for students to work in settings where they can apply their knowledge and learn more about careers in their area of study, as well as cognate courses in other departments.

Other related areas
Students should consult the department's undergraduate advisor for the planning of other concentrations (e.g., prelaw, social-science education) or for individual planned programs.

Demographic Studies Minor (21 hours) - Fall 2020 course requirements