Sociology is the study of society and its parts, and the social sources of human behavior. Sociologists study the structure of societies, groups, organizations, and social institutions and how people interact in these settings. The subject matter of sociology encompasses the family, culture, race and ethnicity, gender, stratification, work, deviance and crime, mass media, social theory, health care, social welfare, religion and legal institutions. Sociology teaches a distinctive way of looking at the social world and offers unique insights into social behavior. A key aspect of the sociological perspective is the research techniques used to collect and analyze data. This perspective can then be applied to the analysis of any social issue or social problem, family life, street crime, education, war and peace, homelessness, poverty, immigration, or substance abuse. ^ Back to top Careers in Sociology Graduating with a major in Sociology provides students with a broad liberal arts background and specialized understanding of the dynamics of social behavior. Therefore, although many jobs do not specifically include "sociologist" in the title, the degree prepares students to pursue careers in virtually any field that requires sound understanding of human behavior in social settings, powerful analytical tools and strong communication skills. Consequently, sociology majors are found in virtually every possible career -- journalism, the criminal justice system, politics, human resources, public relations, public administration. Other majors are found in more applied aspects of sociology, social welfare, health care administration, law and urban studies. The B.A. in sociology is also appropriate preparation for advanced degrees in sociology, social welfare, health care administration, law and urban studies. Some majors choose advanced degrees in sociology, either MA or Ph.D., which typically leads to careers in college teaching or research. For additional information on careers in sociology visit the American Sociological Association website link listed below. ^ Back to top
Requirements for the Major Students changing to the Sociology major from other programs at UD must have a G.P.A. of 2.0 or better. A major in Sociology involves a minimum of 31 credits (10 courses), plus related work. Three courses are required: - SOCI 201 Introduction to Sociology
- SOCI 301 Introduction to Sociological Research
- SOCI 312 Theories of Society
- The remaining courses are electives in Sociology (21 hours).
- A maximum of 3 additional courses at the 200 level.
- A minimum of 2 courses at the 400 level.
Follow this link if you would like to see a description of the Sociology Courses: Course Descriptions College Requirements
Majors in Sociology must, of course, also satisfy the requirements of the College of Arts and Science. They are described in the Undergraduate & Graduate Catalog. ^ Back to top Concentrations Within the Major Students may take advantage of any one of several concentrations focused on specialized areas within the field -- Emergency and Environmental Management, Social Welfare, Law and Society or Health Services. Concentrations are organized around a distinctive set of courses and experiences. The culminating experience in the concentration is a five-week internship or practicum in an organization related to the student's specialization. It may be a hospital, law firm, human services agency, or research unit. Field placements count for four credits and are offered during Winter Session. Students typically devote 20 to 30 hours per week to the experience over the five week period. In addition, students meet in a weekly two-hour seminar on campus to discuss and analyze their experiences. This experience provides useful, practical experience that places our students at an advantage in the search for work, and on more than one occasion has led directly to employment. Students in concentrations have additional requirements. All concentrations require a four-credit practicum. Practicum are offered during Winter Session, and are taken on a PASS/FAIL basis. These credits do not count toward the 31 credits in the major. ^ Back to top Sociology Minor The department offers a minor in Sociology. The requirements are listed as follows: Eighteen (18) Credit hours of course work in Sociology, with a grade of C- or above, including a minimum of nine (9) credit hours at 300 level or above. Required:
Sociology 201: Introduction to Sociology
Sociology 301: Introduction to Sociological Research,
OR
Sociology 312: Theories of Society (or equivalent courses)
OR
An equivalent course in another social science discipline, such as; PSYC 309, 405 ECON 422, 426, MATH 205, POSC 300, 434 OR 435) If a courses is used to substitute Soci 301 or Soci 312, then you MUST take another Sociology 300 level course to fulfill the required number of Sociology credit hours. ^ Back to top Research Centers Two major research centers are also located within the department. The Center for Drug and Alcohol Studies is the site of ongoing research into the causes and consequences of substance abuse in society as well as research on AIDS and other diseases. The Disaster Research Centerconducts studies of disaster preparation and responses to catastrophes such as floods and earthquakes. ^ Back to top Information and Advisement About the Program Students seeking more information about the sociology degree program may contact Dr. Anne Bowler, Associate Chairperson for Sociology, 322 Smith Hall. ^ Back to top | 
