Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


Academic Information

Sociology is an academic program in the liberal arts tradition that emphasizes the development of essential skills (such as writing, communication, analysis, and research) in the context of in-depth study of human social behavior and the dynamics of human societies. A bachelor's degree in Sociology provides you with the flexibility to focus on special areas of interest, and internships are available to add to your interests in a variety of settings.

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


Careers

What Can I Do with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology?

How does social context affect how you think and how you act? How do we shape social change? How does a society become religious or secular, liberal or conservative? How do communities organize? Why do humans usually follow the “rules” of society? If these questions interest you, then you are interested in what C. Wright Mills has called the “Sociological Imagination.” This “Sociological Imagination” allows you to grasp the intersection of both your own personal biography and the historical/social context of the society.

The sociology program at Northern Arizona University will help you learn to apply sociological theory and methods to the study of issues in contemporary society and culture. You'll sharpen your critical thinking skills and gain knowledge about diversity, individual behavior, and group dynamics. Whether your career takes you into public service, private industry, or a non-governmental organization, the university's sociology program will help you understand-and act effectively-in the world around you.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:
  • Policy research and analysis
  • Social services
  • Victim advocacy
  • Probation work
  • Community organizer
  • International health advocate
  • Human resources

With further education, one of these paths is possible:
  • Attorney
  • Counselor
  • University professor
  • Researcher
  • Foundation program director
  • Librarian

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


University Requirements

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


Overview

In addition to University Requirements:

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 120
Major GPA 2.0
Highest Mathematics Required MAT 114
University Honors Program Optional
Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan Optional
AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-A Recommended
Progression Plan Link View Progression Plan

Purpose Statement

The Bachelor of Science in Sociology program provides students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to enter the world of social and government services, business, industry, and organizations. The sociological perspective is essential for succeeding in today’s multiethnic and multinational work force. Our sociology major stresses an awareness of social factors such as race, ethnicity, gender, age, education, and social class that both influence and are affected by social structures. This perspective is an excellent preparation for a wide variety of occupations.
 
This degree builds a strong foundational knowledge in the study of social life, social change, diverse communities and their interactions. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that students have a strong substantive understanding in one of our concentration areas: social justice and inequality; culture and community; environment, globalization, and sustainability; or, health. Our curriculum further ensures that students can use scientific methods to find empirical answers to complex social questions. In addition, they will be able to make clear and effective demonstrations of their work orally and in writing. Students will leave this program with an ability to make sense of the shifting social world and contribute solutions to difficult social problems.
 
The faculty of this department are innovative teachers and researchers who engage students in and out of the classroom. Our students are encouraged to participate in independent research projects with faculty, study abroad programs, internships, and student clubs and learning communities.
 
Sociology graduates are critically informed, value diversity and equality, and use their knowledge of sociology to pursue careers that promote these ideals. 

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the BS in Sociology, students will have demonstrated competency of the following: 

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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


Details

Major Requirements
Minor Requirements
Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Program
General Electives
Additional Information
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Academic Catalog - 2023-2024

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Department of Sociology

Sociology, Bachelor of Science


Campus Availability

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