南伊利諾伊大學(xué)卡本代爾分校

Sociology is the science of society. It explains how human groups, institutions, and social movements shape our lives. Sociology develops students’ insights into theoretical and practical aspects of life. Sociology students study such topics as deviance, sex and gender roles, social movements, social problems, large-scale business and government organizations, international development, and social change.

Training in sociology is basic both to creative living and to such practical tasks as the development and effective working of businesses, families, community service agencies, political movements and parties, churches, social clubs, government, industry, and schools.

Those with degrees in sociology find meaningful and rewarding employment as consultants to business and government, social change agents (e.g., community organizers), politicians, educators, and diplomats. Like other liberal arts students, sociology majors also enter the business world, particularly in the sales or personnel divisions of major corporations.

An undergraduate major in sociology is excellent preparation for those anticipating graduate study in law, social welfare, business administration, journalism, and many of the technical and scientific fields. In addition, many students have enjoyed the benefits of major-minor combinations between sociology and these other related fields.

The Sociology Major

The major is for students seeking a broad academic background in sociology. Those who want a general liberal arts education in the social sciences or those anticipating graduate study in one of the social sciences usually choose it.

Academic Advisement

A student planning to major or minor in sociology should consult the College of Liberal Arts advising office as early as possible. Subsequently the student will visit a college advisor each semester until all major requirements have been completed.

To graduate with a major in sociology the student must meet all the University Core Curriculum requirements and the requirements of the College of Liberal Arts. The major requires thirty-six hours of course work. Four courses are required: SOC 108, SOC 301, SOC 308 and SOC 312. A capstone course during the senior year, SOC 497 or SOC 498, which requires prior consent of instructor, is also required. Each student must also take two additional 400-level courses in sociology.