Sociology (Soc) B.A. degree
The Sociology (SOC) B.A. degree provides students with a strong foundation in sociological theory, research methods, and the study of social life. In addition to coursework in sociology, students complete the University and College of the Liberal Arts requirements, gaining broad exposure to the arts, humanities, and social sciences. The major requires 38 credits in sociology courses (with a grade of C or better), including statistics, sociological theory, research methods, a senior research seminar, and upper-level sociology electives. Students also have flexibility to explore areas of personal interest through lower- and upper-level elective courses. This degree prepares students for careers in areas such as social and community services, government and public policy, business and organizational research, health and human services, nonprofit organizations, and criminal justice. It also provides excellent preparation for graduate study in sociology and related fields, as well as professional programs in areas such as law, social work, public policy, business, and health professions.
A minimum of 123 credits is required for graduation. All major requirements must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Requirements for the Major:
38 credits
For the complete list of requirements, please visit the University Bulletin.
Planning Resources
Please note: the prerequisite for SOC 470 is SOC 207. Students often find it advantageous to complete STAT 200 prior to SOC 207. Thus, the prerequisites for SOC 400W are SOC 207 and SOC 470, and this course sequencing is strictly enforced.
*It is recommended that you take SOC 400W in the first semester of your senior year.
Note: Internship credits will be counted towards elective credits, unless approved by the internship coordinator to meet a general 3 credit 400 level SOC course requirement.
Important Notes for Change of Location Students
- 24 of the credits related to the primary area of study stipulated under “requirements for the major” must be completed at University Park, as per the requirement, Establishing Residency in a Major, as per University Policy.
General Education:
45 Credits
(4 credits are included in the REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)
Bachelor of Arts
Degree Requirements:
24 Credits
Electives:
Minimum of 20
First Year Seminar:
(Included in ELECTIVES or GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)Writing Across the Curriculum:
(Included in REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)United States Cultures
and International
Cultures Courses
(Included in ELECTIVES or GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)
Sociology (Soc) B.S. degree
The Sociology (SOC) B.S. degree provides students with strong training in sociological theory, research methods, and quantitative analysis. In addition to advanced coursework in sociology, students complete substantial training in mathematics, statistics, and another social science discipline, developing a broad interdisciplinary foundation and advanced analytical skills. The major requires 61–63 credits in sociology and related coursework (with a grade of C or better), including introductory and advanced statistics, sociological theory, research methods, upper-level sociology electives, and a senior research seminar. Students also complete advanced coursework in mathematics and statistics, along with 18 credits in a social science field outside sociology. Compared to the B.A. degree, the B.S. places greater emphasis on quantitative and statistical research skills. It is especially well suited for students interested in data analysis, survey research, policy research, graduate study, or research-oriented careers in the public or private sector. Graduates are prepared for careers in research organizations, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, business analytics, and related fields.
All major requirements must be completed with a grade of C or better.
Requirements for the Major:
61-63 credits
For the complete list of requirements, please visit the University Bulletin.
Planning Resources
Please note: The Sociology Bachelor of Science degree requirements recently changed. Students beginning in the Fall 2024 semester through the present semester, please use the check sheet above. For students who began prior to the Fall 2024 semester, please follow your Academic Requirements page in LionPATH and reach out to your assigned adviser with any questions.
Note: The advanced level STAT course must be taken prior to SOC 400W.
* It is recommended that you take SOC 400W in the first semester of your senior year. The prerequisites for SOC 400W are SOC 207 and SOC 470 (or SOC 207 and an advanced level STAT course). This course sequencing is strictly enforced.
Note: While SOC 294, 296, 300, 494, 496, and LA 496D provide students with terrific opportunities and learning experiences, these credits may NOT be counted in fulfillment of the Sociology major requirements. They may, however, be used as elective credits to count toward the credit requirement for graduation. SOC 469 may count for 3 credits toward the major if it is taken twice for a total of 6 credits.
Note: Internship credits will be counted towards elective credits, unless approved by the internship coordinator to meet a general 3 credit 400 level SOC course requirement.
Important Notes for Change of Location Students
- 24 of the credits related to the primary area of study stipulated under “requirements for the major” must be completed at University Park, as per the requirement, Establishing Residency in a Major, as per University Policy.
General Education:
45 Credits
(4 credits are included in the
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)
Electives:
Minimum of 21–23
First Year Seminar:
(Included in ELECTIVES or
GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)
Writing Across the Curriculum:
(Included in REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MAJOR)United States Cultures
and International
Cultures Courses
(Included in ELECTIVES or GENERAL EDUCATION course selection)
Who Can Answer My Questions about the Sociology Major or Minor?
Click here to contact one of our sociology advisors.