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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Information and Advisement
About the Program
Students seeking more information about the sociology degree program
may contact Dr. Jeffrey Davidson, Associate Chairperson for Sociology,
322 Smith Hall.
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