Sociology, B.A.

Sociology Mission Statement
The mission of the Sociology program at Westminster College is to help students understand and practice the scientific study of human behavior as it is interpreted and experienced in groups. The systematic approach that sociology requires liberates students from individualistic mindsets and helps them to understand themselves and their society in new ways. Thus the sociological perspective is profoundly transformative. Our enterprise contributes to the larger vision and goals of the liberal arts with its emphasis on logical reasoning, critical reflection, clear written and oral communication, skilled group work, appreciation of pluralism and diversity, viewing of self and society from alternate perspectives, application of knowledge to solving social problems and cultivation of identity as both a local and global citizen. We achieve these learning goals using a variety of pedagogies informed by best practices in the scholarship of teaching and learning and focused on active engagement inside the classroom and in the larger society. As dedicated scholars ourselves, we enjoy modeling the process of discovery as we guide students in experiencing its satisfactions.

Sociology Learning Outcomes:

1. Identify and explain a sociological perspective on social issues
2. Describe and apply core sociological concepts
3. Identify, apply and evaluate classical and contemporary sociological theories
4. Identify, apply and evaluate the major qualitative and quantitative research method approaches in sociology
5. Apply at least one sociological research method approach to analyze a relevant social problem.
6. Explain the concept of value-freedom and arguments about its merits and attainability
7. Locate, summarize and effectively use peer-reviewed academic disciplinary resources
8. Correctly use the American Sociological Association documentation format

Sociology is the scientific study of human behavior as interpreted and experienced in groups. These groups range from face-to-face interactions to institutions including the family, religious communities, and health care to indigenous, developing and post-industrial societies embedded in globalization processes. The program emphasizes multicultural and global perspectives and material to broaden the outlook of students. The broadly based curriculum in the major allows the student to follow particular interests in depth, as well as to gain an overview of the discipline. The aim of the major is a general introduction to the dominant sociological theories, substantive areas, and methods of inquiry, with students acquiring competency in important analytical and technical skills.

A major in sociology helps to prepare students for both further study and immediate employment. Work or study might be in sociology, law, social work, counseling, or other related areas. The major in sociology with a social policy concentration helps to prepare students for careers in helping professions and public service.

Students may not double major in Sociology and Criminal Justice Studies.  Students may minor in Criminal Justice Studies with no more than two overlapping courses.