Undergraduate Programs
Sociology Program
Major Advisor: Dr. Shannon Lane
Office: 390A Bowen Hall
Email: Lane@soc.msstate.edu
Degree: Bachelor of Arts
Sociology is the scientific study of social life in all of its manifold interrelationships. With an interest in understanding human behavior, sociologists study such special areas as deviant behavior, social organization, stratification, population, community, social institutions, race and ethnic relations, social problems, theory and methods of research. Sociology majors are well prepared to enter many rewarding positions in the work force right out of college or further graduate training in law, business, community planning, architecture, medicine, politics or academics.
Opportunities for employment include, but are not restricted to entry-level positions in administration, advertising, banking, counseling (family planning, career, substance abuse, etc.) health services, journalism, group and recreation work, marketing and market research, sales, teaching, criminal justice, social services and social research. In addition, sociology provides training that other liberal arts majors do not, such as in the basics of human interaction and relationships, and basic training for research analyst positions (in statistics and research methods, which include computer applications, for example). Students are eligible for membership in the Mississippi Alpha chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society. To be considered for membership, a student must be an officially declared sociology major or demonstrate a serious interest in sociology, must be at least a junior, have at least a 3.00 overall GPA, and must have maintained a 3.00 GPA in sociology courses. To earn a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in sociology, a student is required to take thirty-six (36) hours of sociology.
Sociology Major with a Specialization Course Requirements
The sociology major consists of a sequence of five levels of courses ranging from introductory to the more advanced and capstone courses. Students are expected to complete courses in the lower levels before taking courses in the next higher levels. For example, students should complete Level 1 COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES 103 courses before completing Level II courses, etc. The lower courses are prerequisites for the more advanced level courses.
Selecting a specialization. There are two types of courses to complete at Level IV, specialization and elective courses. With the assistance of their advisor, students will select the specialization that best fits with their post-graduate plans. Each specialization is described below.
Population and Environment Specialization. Students planning to pursue a career in some aspect of business or in some government agencies may want to consider selection this specialization since these courses will focus on information and skills needed in the economic sector of society.
Family and Gender Studies Specialization. Students planning to work in private or government agencies that provide personal or social services to various populations in society will want to consider this specialization. The topics covered and the skills developed in theses courses will provide much needed background information and understanding for working with persons and groups.
Socio-Economic Development Specialization. This specialization was developed for students that anticipate working in the area of socio-economic development at the community, state or national levels. The knowledge and background necessary to work effectively in various private and public organizations/agencies that focus on social and/or economic development is provided. Courses in this area focus on knowledge of the social forces and processes operating in specific environments that may facilitate or inhibit development and foster the ability to analyze relevant information and data.
General Sociology Specialization. Often students wish to obtain a more traditional liberal arts major by selecting courses that interest them personally. This specialization is the logical choice for these students.
Sociology Minor
To earn a minor in sociology, a student must take eighteen (18) hours of undergraduate sociology courses. SO1003, 2203, and 3213 are required. The other three SO courses must be at the 2000 level or above and include at least one 4000 level SO course.
Course of study for Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Students who wish to major or minor in the department should plan their programs with the departmental major advisor as soon as possible after entering the University and should consult with their advisor before each registration period. Programs are arranged individually to combine the most varied advantages consistent with the student's interest and purposes. Persons interested in secondary school teaching may elect sufficient courses in the College of Education to satisfy certification requirements for teaching social studies.
