Sociology
SOC – Sociology course descriptions
Faculty
Randall Renstrom (chair), Shawn Wick, Jon Witt
Statement of philosophy
The sociology program is grounded in the belief that understanding society is essential to shaping a better future. Sociology helps students investigate the complex realities of social life by examining how relationships, institutions, culture, inequality, and social change influence human behavior and life chances. Through the sociological perspective, students learn to see how personal experiences are connected to larger social forces and to ask deeper questions about the world around them.
The philosophy of our department is rooted in the conviction that sociology provides both intellectual depth and practical relevance. We believe students learn best when they connect theory to lived experience, research to real-world problems, and academic inquiry to public life. Through engaged teaching, close faculty mentorship, applied internships, and training in both qualitative and quantitative methods, we prepare students to investigate important social questions and to develop evidence-based responses to them.
Our department seeks to foster graduates who can analyze complex issues, communicate persuasively, interpret data responsibly, and engage diverse perspectives with empathy and insight. We view sociology as a versatile and powerful preparation for a rapidly changing world, enabling students not only to understand society more fully, but also to participate in it more effectively, ethically, and impactfully.
Sociology Major Requirements (38 credits)
- Complete all of the following:
SOC 120 Principles of Sociology (3)
SOC 350 Applied Quantitative Methods (4)
SOC 360 Applied Qualitative Methods (4)
SOC 450 Sociological Theory (4)
SOC 485 Sociology in Practice (4) - Complete one of the following:
SOC 297 Internship in Sociology (3)
SOC 397 Internship in Sociology (3) Complete an additional 16 credits of sociology (SOC) elective courses (at least 6 of these 16 credits must be at the 300-400 level)
Sociology Minor Requirements (18 credits)
Complete 18 credits of SOC with at least 6 credits at the 300-400 level.