B.A. in Sociology, General Sociology Concentration

The Sociology, General Sociology Concentration at Colorado State University provides students with an opportunity to dig deep into a rich liberal arts education and develop a deep understanding of the nature and dynamics of social life.

Sociology is unique because we study a diverse array of phenomenon including the environment, the criminal justice system, religion, class inequality, social policy, and politics.

Students who major in this Sociology, General Sociology Concentration at Colorado State University have a lot of flexibility in what they choose to study and can take courses across these topical areas.

They also develop a strong skill set in research methods. Because of this rich academic experience, sociology prepares students for a wide variety of jobs upon graduation including researchers, counselors, policy analysts, managers, criminal justice personnel, as well as strong preparation for graduate or law school.

Students will:

• Analyze critically the major classical and contemporary theories from the 19th and 20th centuries. Students are expected to demonstrate how well these theories help us understand or explain current social phenomena both in the U.S. and abroad. Students will learn to apply a wide variety of theories, including European critical theory, functionalism, symbolic interactionism, and post-modern theory, in required empirical research.
• Analyze critically sociological phenomena by applying objective social research methodologies. Students will demonstrate a working knowledge of sociological theories and the application of these theories to real world social phenomena.

Specifically, students will understand conceptual frameworks associated with:

• social structure (social stratification, ethnic structures, social institutions, small group dynamics, social demography, and social organizations);
• culture (socialization and the development of personalities, social norms, framing normative assumptions of societies and organizations); and
• social agency (the behavior of the individual, collective behavior such as with social movements, and the principles of social-psychology).

Potential Occupations

Careers are exceptionally varied. Participating in internships and cooperative education opportunities is highly recommended to enhance practical training and development. Sociology graduates apply their education to a large variety of occupations in the non-profit, private, and public sectors.

Because Sociology graduates possess a number of transferable communication, analytical, and people skills, they find positions in government, industry, and academia. Many employers appreciate liberal arts majors for their multiple skills and their ability to adapt to a variety of tasks and work environments. Graduates who go on to advanced studies can pursue careers in sociology or attain advanced positions with the possibility of rising to top professional levels.