Sociology BS

Program Purpose

Sociology is the study of social relations, for example the study of social interaction, the relations of power in modern society, family and community life, organizations, and institutions. Among other things, sociologists study social change and social movements, diversity and the origins of inequality, and social conflict. The study of sociology includes learning about the theoretical perspectives and the diverse research methodologies that inform sociological analysis. Students major in sociology in preparation for a number of different careers. Individuals are trained to analyze available information, summarize findings, draw conclusions, and solve problems.

The study of sociology prepares a student for professional training in areas such as business and organizations, counseling and social services, international development, and criminology and law.

Becoming a sociologist requires further graduate study, either a Ph.D. or a Masters degree.

Curricular Structure

Major Academic Plan (MAP)

Undergraduate Catalog

Program Teaching Objectives

The curriculum structure of the Sociology B.S. degree is:

 

These program objectives are consistent with the aims of a BYU education. While providing instruction in the theories, methodology, and substantive areas of sociology, the faculty encourage students to openly discuss and critique what they are learning in a way that is spiritually strengthening, intellectually enlarging, and character building.

Learning Outcomes

Sociological Perspective

Graduates will demonstrate how to apply sociological perspectives (i.e., recognize the influence of social structure) to individual-level or collective phenomena.

Courses that Contribute: SOC 323 SOC 425 SOC 456R SOC 111 SOC 112 SOC 113 SOC 340 SOC 345 SOC 404 SOC 423 SOC 426 SOC 455R SOC 456R SOC 490R SOC 528 SOC 598R SOC 604
Linked to BYU Aims: Human knowledge, Character
Understanding Diversity

Graduates will understand how race, class, or gender stratification (power, inequality, etc.) affect individual outcomes and shape social relations in a diverse society.

Courses that Contribute: SOC 113 SOC 323 SOC 111 SOC 112 SOC 113 SOC 340 SOC 345 SOC 404 SOC 423 SOC 426 SOC 455R SOC 456R SOC 490R SOC 604
Linked to BYU Aims: Think soundly, Lifelong learning
Research Methodologies

Graduates will apply suitable qualitative or quantitative research methods to address social problems and issues.

Courses that Contribute: SOC 425 SOC 456R SOC 111 SOC 112 SOC 345 SOC 404 SOC 405 SOC 423 SOC 426 SOC 455R SOC 456R SOC 490R SOC 528 SOC 598R SOC 604
Linked to BYU Aims: Think soundly, Quantitative reasoning

Evidence of Learning

Direct Measures

Undergraduate student research

Course surveys on diversity

Department qualitative study of racial and ethnic minorities

Indirect Measures

BYU Senior Survey

College Exit Survey

BYU Alumni Survey, 2021 (2018 cohort)

National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) Sociology Report

Learning and Teaching Assessment and Improvement

The department undergraduate curriculum committee will evaluate annual data (senior survey, university surveys, etc.) and report to the department how learning outcomes are being met and areas for improvement.  The committee will be tasked to "close the loop" and update alignment tables by August each year.  Department goals for improvement will be outlined in the annual department meeting and progress will be monitored by the undergraduate curriculum committee.