Welcome to Sociology

The mission of the program is to develop graduates with skills, values, and knowledge that will lead directly to employment or graduate school. The program is a quality program involving individual attention and frequent student-faculty interaction. The student learning experience includes the acquisition of knowledge, research skills, written and oral communication skills, critical thinking applications, internship experience, and professional values.  WSU requires students to acquire a laptop computer to enhance interactive and educational technology skills. Additionally, the department's faculty is committed to quality teaching, research, and student development.

Sociology examines how social experiences shape beliefs and behavior.  As one of the social sciences, sociology stresses the use of scientific research methods and theories to study human social behavior in a wide variety of settings.  Thus, the sociology major is designed to provide multiple opportunities for students to study how larger social processes influence thoughts and actions.  The required courses are also designed to provide experience in building and testing theory as well as in collecting and evaluating data.  Well-developed communication and research skills are highly valued in a variety of professions for which an education in sociology is desirable.  In addition, practical job-related knowledge and skills will enhance the student’s job prospects.

The Program goals for each student

1. To develop knowledge and skills in the foundation areas of sociology (basic concepts, sociological theory, and research methods and statistics).
2. To develop the ability to apply the sociological perspective to asking, understanding and explaining sociological questions.
3. To develop an understanding of the internal diversity of U.S. society and its place within the international context.
4. To develop an understanding of the nature and effects of social inequality.
5. To develop career and/or graduate school readiness.
6. To develop job-related knowledge, values, and skills.

The B.A. Sociology Program not only contributes to the overall liberal arts education of students, but also teaches valuable critical thinking and analytical skills that include understanding and appreciating the experiences of diverse groups in society, identifying the various causes of social problems, and the application of quantitative and qualitative research.  These skills prepare students for a wide variety of careers including business, government, human services, criminal justice, law, and public and private research.  The program emphasizes developing these skills through the integration of classroom study with supervised field instruction in a wide variety of field experience and/or internship placements.

Last Modified: Monday, June 29, 2009 13:27