Sociology, BA

Department of Sociology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences 

65 credits

Introduction/What is the Study of Sociology?

Sociologists examine subjects encompassing a vast array of human behavior: crime and punishment, the formation and dissolution of families, bureaucracy in organizations, conflicts between classes, and global inequalities. Sociology is distinctive in its focus on the way individuals’ lives are embedded within multiple social contexts that facilitate and constrain the range of possible actions. These contexts include generation, occupation, gender, religion, sexual orientation, family, health, nation, race, and ethnicity among many others.

Why Consider a Sociology Major? 

Sociology students develop an aptitude for critical thinking, improve their writing ability, and gain competence with statistical computing that will enhance their future career options. Sociology students also have the opportunity to participate in faculty-led study abroad programs. Many Sociology graduates enter professions such as law, education, social services and criminal justice work.

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

The number of students admitted to the major is limited as a result of the structure of the sociology curriculum and departmental staffing capabilities.

All students wishing to become Sociology majors should meet the following criteria:

• Completion of at least 45 college-level credits
• Completion of at least 5 credits in Sociology with a grade of C- or better
• If the preceding criteria are met, students must complete the paperwork for Admission to the Sociology Major, at which point, there are two paths to becoming a Sociology major.
• Path 1 (Immediate Declaration): Students with a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher may submit their Admission paperwork at any time to the Sociology Department Advisor for approval and admission to the major.
• Path 2 (Application Review): Students with a cumulative GPA lower than 2.85 should submit their Admission paperwork to the Sociology Department on or before Friday of the 2nd week of fall, winter, spring, or summer quarter. These applications will be reviewed and admission to the major will be based on a combination of overall GPA, Sociology GPA, and space available in the program. Students will receive notification regarding their admission status during the third week of classes.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.