Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Department
Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice
College
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
Overview of the program
Prepare students to meaningfully contribute to our world by engaging them in a sociological perspective that enables them to understand an array of societal challenges and develop innovative opportunities and solutions to lead the educational, economic, and cultural development of Southeast Louisiana and the world. Through internship opportunities, speaker events and workshops, study abroad programs, undergraduate research opportunities and student organizations, our program prepares students for leadership positions in diverse professions and for advanced studies in sociology, social sciences, law, and related disciplines.
The B.A. in Sociology will allow students to recognize and comprehend the causes, immediate effects, and long-term implications of race, gender, and class inequalities in a socially stratified world. It will also enable them to understand current academic ideas and concepts concerning "globalization," and to identify the current and potential impacts of globalization on individuals and societies. This degree is also intended to provide students with knowledge of classical and contemporary theoretical frameworks, the ability to distinguish among varying methods of doing research, and an understanding of how sociologists identify cause-and-effect relationships. Students will be able to apply these analytical tools to an understanding of social life and of the ways in which people's personal lives are connected to larger social structures, cultures, and institutions. By the conclusion of their studies, students will understand human agency and realize that challenges can be overcome by social action and the promotion of innovative solutions, and be able to apply that understanding to their diverse professions and/or further study in graduate programs.
Total semester hours required: 120
Strengths of the program
- nationally recognized scholars who have published research in their fields
- faculty committed to students through academic advising and mentoring
- small class sizes allowing for increased discussion and the use of creative learning stylesa focus on the development and use of critical thinking skills
- a focus on the development of leadership skills through internships, student associations, undergraduate research opportunities, and study abroad programs
- a wide range of available internet coursesan array of courses on social issues and social justice
- an array of courses on the cutting edge of environmental issues
- a focus on understanding human agency and the ways in which students can participate in shaping our common future
Preparing for a job in the program
Students majoring in sociology prepare to work with diverse populations and develop a clear understanding of the causes, consequences, and potential solutions to problems associated with social life. They may prepare for future employment by:
- participation in service learning opportunities
- taking part in supervised professional internships
- conducting contemporarily relevant undergraduate research
- presenting findings at professional and academic conferences and meetings
- exploiting available training and certification options
- attending interdisciplinary events offering chances to network
- developing leadership skills as members of active student organizations
- participating in study abroad programs
Careers in the program
Sociologists serve in virtually every area of social and professional life. Just as a few examples, sociology can provide a helpful background for entering law, business, public health, community planning, or politics. In fact, because of the breadth of its concerns, sociology can be applied to almost any career path. More specifically, a degree in sociology can prepare you to seek employment as a:
- Community Organizer/Advocate
- Training and Development Specialist
- Agency Administrator
- Academic Scholar / Researcher
- Case Manager/Counselor
- International Development Agent
- Community Relations Organizer
- Urban Planning Specialist
- College Admissions Specialist/Recruiter
- Disaster Relief and Response Specialis
- tEmployment and Labor Relations Negotiator/Manager
- Social Justice Educator
- Sustainable Agriculture: Director of Sales/Marketing
- Sustainable Agriculture Community Organizer
- Renewable Energy Price Coordinator
- Health Outreach Specialist
- Patient Advocate
Campus organizations and activities affiliated with the program
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice Social Justice Speaker Series
- Study Abroad programs
- Southeastern Sociology Association (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/groups/selusociologicalassociation)
- Reconnect—Student Environmental Organization (http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/groups/186625944742949/?fref=ts)
Related fields that might interest you
- Program Assessment
- Environment & Natural Resource Management
- Human Resources
- Mental Health Services
- Public Health
- EpidemiologyAddiction Services
- Public Administration
- City Planning
- Market Research
- Law
- Law Enforcement & Corrections
Common Strengths and interests of students in the program
Many sociology majors demonstrate:
- Curiosity
- A willingness to consider that things are not always what they seem
- A keener than average interest in understanding how individuals interact in society and how society, in turn, interacts with individuals
- A desire to understand and address social inequality
- A belief in the possibility and importance of working for social justice
- A concern with issues that threaten environmental sustainability in Louisiana and the world
Contact Information
Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
SLU 10686
Hammond, LA 70402
Dr. Ken Bolton Jr.
On Campus: Fayard Hall, Room336C
Telephone: (985) 549-2110
E-mail: kbolton@selu.edu
