Major in Sociology

To declare your major please fill out this form.

The sociology major consists of nine 4-point courses (36 points) completed with a grade of C or better, as follows:

• Introduction to Sociology (SOC-UA 1)
• Sociological Theory (SOC-UA 111)
• Research Methods (SOC-UA 301)
• Statistics for Social Research (SOC-UA 302) or a comparable statistics course with approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.
• Senior thesis. One of the following two courses:
  • Research Capstone (SOC-UA 940 or 941) - Prerequisite SOC-UA 301 Research Methods or comparable research methods course with approval of Director of Undergraduate Studies.
  • Senior Honors Research Seminar (SOC-UA 950) -  Prerequisite SOC-UA 301 Research Methods or  comparable research methods course with approval of Director of Undergraduate Studies. 
• Four SOC-UA electives. Students may substitute up to two social science courses taken in other departments with the submission of the Course Substitution Form and approval of the Director of Undergraduate Studies.

The Sociology Major requires 9 courses, and up to 2 courses may be completed with transfer credits. If you happen to have more than half of the major credits equivalent from transfer courses, you may be able to use them for placement/prerequisite purposes and possibly towards your 128 graduation credits, but they will not be able to count towards your major requirements. For transfer course credits to be considered, a course substitution form and the syllabus of the course being petitioned for credit must be submitted to the Sociology Director of Undergraduate Studies for review. Once a decision is rendered, you will be notified by the Sociology Department via email. No course is guaranteed.

Of the nine courses required for the major, transfer students must take at least seven (28 points) in the College of Arts and Science.  

What can I do with a sociology degree?

There are many reasons, both practical and idealistic, to study sociology, but the practical reasons may seem less obvious. Sociological skills are useful in an assortment of occupations and professions, and the range of uses is broad enough to help students with widely divergent interests. Those planning professional careers, as well as those planning graduate study in a social science discipline, will find value in many of the department's courses. Courses that teach practical skills of research and analysis are helpful for those interested in social research and policy-making. Substantive courses in a wide variety of fields are useful to students preparing for careers in social service, law, health, public administration, and many other professional areas.

Beyond these practical applications, the theories, methods, and subject matter of sociology provide an excellent context in which to learn the most important skills for thriving in complex, modern societies--the ability to read critically, think logically, and write clearly. Except for a very few specialized professions, a well-rounded liberal arts education that teaches these intellectual skills is generally the best preparation for life after college. Whatever the career choice, the study of sociology fosters a critical awareness of social life and offers a way to analyze problems and act effectively.

Are there part-time and research jobs available to undergraduates?

Professors are often looking for research assistants and part-time help. Students are encouraged to seek out professors specializing in their specific area of interest (race and ethnicity, criminology, sex and gender, etc.) and inquire about offering their services. The Department maintains a postings board for undergraduates that contains a wealth of internships and job opportunities. In addition, students may apply for up to $500 of funding for an independent research project through the Dean’s Office.