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Sociology

Program Overview

Sociology is the science of society, social institutions and social relationships. Sociologists study human behavior as it relates to interactions among individuals and social groups. They explore how areas of inequality -- like race, class and gender -- influence these interactions.

Scranton's sociology program gives students a liberal arts education in the Jesuit tradition. Our faculty help to develop students’ knowledge, skills, competencies and values. 

The major provides a solid base in general sociology, which is the required knowledge for any administrative position dealing with interpersonal relations and management. Students learn research techniques, data analysis, and other skills that prepare them for graduate school and a range of career options.

The curriculum teaches students to think critically about the world around them, especially with regard to:

  • the dynamics of socialization
  • social organizations
  • social stratification
  • interaction in everyday life
  • the importance of societal conformity in ensuring social survival
  • the processes behind enacting organizational and social change.

Graduates of our program have found employment as social workers, counselors, researchers and sociologists. Others have chosen to pursue advanced degrees at Temple University, Western New England University and SUNY University of Buffalo, among others.

Curriculum

The bachelor's degree requires 121 credits. It's common for students to take courses in both sociology and criminal justice to fulfill certain requirements.

Required Courses and Electives

In addition to the general education requirements, sociology majors are required to take the following courses:

  • Introduction to Sociology 
  • Sociological Theory 
  • Social Stratification  
  • Race and Ethnic Relations 
  • Family Issues and Social Policy OR Urban Sociology 
  • Independent study OR capstone course in sociology OR internship in social work

Students must also take at least five major electives. Some courses offered in the past that fulfill this requirement are:

  • Collective Behavior and Social Movements
  • Sociology of Sport
  • Medical Sociology
  • Sociology of Work and Professions
  • Sociology of Globalization
  • Urban Sociology

VIEW THE CURRICULUM  VIEW COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

Minors

The Sociology minor is composed of 19 credits. The following courses are required: 

  • Introduction to Sociology 
  • Sociological Theory 
  • Research Methods and Statistics for the Social Sciences 
  • Research Methods and Statistics for the Social Sciences Lab 
  • 1 Sociology or Criminal Justice elective at the 100-200 level
  • 1 Sociology or Criminal Justice elective at the 200 level
  • 1 Sociology or Criminal Justice elective at the 300 level 

The Applied Sociology minor also requires 19 credits. Applied sociology refers to when practitioners use sociological theories and methods outside of a university setting in order to answer research questions or problems for specific clientele or to promote social change.  The field is useful in obtaining accurate statistics documenting a social problem, designing programs to address social issues, and for program/policy evaluation. 

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