Sociology with Social and Criminal Justice Concentration Major (SOC)

Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, communities, and societies, and how people interact in these contexts. Since human behavior is shaped by social factors, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the family to education; from crime to religion; from the divisions of race, social class, and gender to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from environment and sustainability to the sociology of sports. Few fields have such a broad scope and relevance for research, theory, service, and the application of knowledge. The Sociology Department emphasizes engaged pedagogy, critical thinking, theoretical and methodological understanding, service learning, and the application of theory to practice. Sociology majors have the opportunity to be involved in research, sustainable community development, and law enforcement, as well as local community service projects. Since many sociology majors continue their education in graduate school, the department seeks to prepare them for success at the graduate level. Others often utilize their sociology degree for work in community development, human and community services, the business world, and a wide variety of careers that involve problem- solving and gathering, organizing, and analyzing information (i.e., data). The department sponsors the local chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honors Society.

The Department of Sociology requires majors to:

• understand basic theories and concepts in sociology
• design a research or community engagement project.

For more information about the Sociology major leading to a teaching certification, please contact the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Education.

DEGREE TYPE: BACHELOR OF ARTS (BA)

PROGRAM CONTACT: ASSISTANT PROFESSOR JOHN JOHNSON