Sociology Major and Minor

For the sociology course offerings, 1000-level courses provide a comprehensive descriptive overview at the introductory level, 2000-level courses provide an in-depth specialized study of a particular case, area, or social phenomenon and introduce theoretical perspectives and 3000-level courses analyze case materials applying theory critically in specific cases and consider the consequences of various theories on social policy and strategies for social change.

Any 2000-level sociology course is a prerequisite for any 3000-level sociology course. Any student who has grounds to request a waiver of this requirement may do so by contacting the Chair of Sociology and Criminal Justice. This request must be made prior to enrolling in the upper-level sociology course.

Grade Requirements for Sociology Majors:

Students who major in Sociology must achieve a grade of C- or above in all core courses in the major. If a student receives a lower grade than a C-, that student will need to repeat the course.

Prerequisite:

Requirements for Sociology Major:

Requirements in related areas:

Electives:
Students must also take 3 courses (9 credits), at least one from the 3000-level. These courses may also be used toward a concentration.

Students can earn a minor in Sociology by taking SOC 1000: Introduction to Sociology and four courses in the sociology curriculum at the 2000-level or above, with at least one course at the 3000-level.

Sociology majors are encouraged to experiential learning in fieldwork settings to observe social life and institutions and to participate in programs and projects designed to develop critical understandings of our society.

1. Completion of EXP 2340, Introduction to Experiential Learning, with a grade of C or better;
2. A 2.75 cumulative average overall;
3. A 3.0 average in the major;
4. No outstanding “Incomplete” in an earlier field placement.

Additionally, Sociology students electing to do an internship are required to take the co-requisite:

• SOC 3450 SM - Sociology Internship Seminar

Mission:

The Sociology program at Curry College offers students the opportunity to look at small-scale interactions of daily life and the large- scale organization and functions of social institutions in various settings and societies. Students gain insight into how the social world transcends individuals in historically evolving structural and cultural patterns. The program enables students to understand the influence of diversity (e.g., race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation) and inequality on their lives and the lives of others. These influences will be framed under the larger themes of social justice and global awareness, with an emphasis on social construction and the ways in which these constructions create boundaries that categorize, separate, advantage, or marginalize people. Using the knowledge gained from this perspective, students will better understand how people live together and give meaning to their own actions and attribute meaning to others’ actions. Students will be able to think critically about solutions to social problems in the United States and globally. Students will gain a deeper understanding and awareness about themselves and the wider world and acquire knowledge and skills that are useful personally and professionally (e.g., human services, social work, criminal justice, politics, and business). The program and its faculty encourage community service and internships.

Explain how sociology differs from other social sciences and demonstrate an understanding of the interrelationships between individuals, communities, and the broader society:

1. Explain and apply the concept of the sociological imagination and evaluate how social factors influence individuals’ behavior, life chances, and life choices.
2. Differentiate between micro and macro levels of analysis and describe the reciprocal relationship between the two.
3. Explain the process of socialization and analyze how socialization shape the development of the self and influence culture and society.

Compare and contrast different methodologies and theoretical perspectives and articulate the relationship between sociological theory and sociological research:

1. Define major sociological theories classic and contemporary and apply sociological theory to explain social problems and social life.
2. Explain the role of theory in knowledge production and the reciprocal relationship between theory and research.
3. Apply critical thinking skills and knowledge of research methods to evaluate sociological research.
4. Be able to ask and answer sociological questions through gathering and analyzing data.

Explore the social processes through which power is allocated and how this leads to privilege or marginalization:

1. Explain the sociological relevance of inequalities related to race, ethnicity, nation, class, ability, and gender and/or sexuality.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of inequality at both the individual and structural/systemic levels.
3. Recognize the role of activism in social change through studying social movements and/or participating in activism.
4. Demonstrate awareness of global issues and analyze how global processes shape local social structures and individuals.