"Whatever sociology may be, it is the result of constantly asking the question, what is the meaning of this?"—C. Wright Mills

Structure of the Sociology Major/Minor

Sociology Major

A major in sociology consists of 30 hours of coursework organized to provide progressively more sophisticated levels of sociological analysis culminating in a capstone experience. It is expected that students start with Level 1 courses, progress to Level II and then to Level III and so forth. The structure of the major is as follows:

I. Entry Courses (6 hours)

II. Basic Courses (6 hours)

III. Post Basic Courses (9 hours)

IV. Additional Hours in Sociology (6 hours)

V. Capstone Course (3 hours)

VI. Departmental Honors (6 hours)

VII. Statistics

The coursework in sociology fits into five emphasis areas (also see back side). Although sociology majors are not required to select an emphasis area, students who want a closer tie between the major and future employment are encouraged to do so. Each area has recommended courses in the major, complementary internships, service learning opportunities, and suggested courses offered by other departments. The emphasis areas are:

Sociology Minor

Sociology Minor Form

To minor in Sociology, a student must complete a total of 15 hours of Sociology coursework as follows:

Program Area: Law, Justice, and Society

Program Area: Power, Inequalities and Social Change

Program Area: Sexuality, Health, and the Life Course

Program Area: Culture, Identity, and the Media

Program Area: Organizations, Work, Technology, and the Economy