Sociology Major

Sociology

The sociology major is designed to help students develop an understanding of and an appreciation for the principal sociological perspectives, theories and research methodologies of the discipline. Sociologists study people and their relationships in social and cultural contexts, as well as analyze those social institutions and structures of power involved in the shaping of human experience.

Most of our sociology courses are organized in two broad categories: foundation courses that are fundamental to the discipline of sociology (Foundations) and courses that address special topics (Special Topics). Courses numbered over 100 usually are considered upper division courses and may have prerequisites or require the permission of the instructor [see individual course descriptions]. Capstone courses, open only to senior majors during spring semester, are designed to allow students to practice the craft of sociology by engaging in an original research project (quantitative, qualitative and/or theoretical). Students complete the research as part of the requirements of the Senior Seminar (SOC 199A PZ) or Senior Thesis (SOC 199B PZ).

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify and articulate the interplay of macro and micro level structural forces and the influence of culture in shaping behavior.
2. Understand the power dynamics in the social construction of society and its intersectionality with race, class, gender, sexuality, and nationality.
3. Recognize and communicate effectively about institutional challenges to and opportunities for freedom and democracy.
4. Understand the stratified nature of globalization and the importance of intercultural differences within and between local and global communities.
5. Identify, describe, and apply core sociological theories/perspectives to sociological phenomena.
6. Understand and describe the connection between sociological theory and methods in a cogent manner.
7. Understand and distinguish quantitative and qualitative research methods and identify their strengths and weaknesses.
8. Incorporate ethical considerations into research and other scholarly practices.

Pitzer Advisers: D. Ambriz, A. Bonaparte, A. Junisbai, J. Kizer, E. Steinman, P. Zuckerman

Major Requirements

The major in Sociology requires the completion of at least 10 courses. Please see the Honors section below if you wish to pursue honors in this major as some of the requirements differ.

Required Courses

Core Courses (4)

• SOC 001 PZ -Introduction to Sociology  or SOC 001X PZ -SRX: Introduction to Sociology  
• SOC 101 PZ -Quantitative Research Methods  
• SOC 102 PO -Qualitative Research Methods  
• SOC 110 PZ -Classical Sociological Theory  

Electives (5)

These consist of foundations courses that are fundamental to the discipline of sociology and special topics courses that focus on particular social issues and social policies. At least two of the five elective courses should be from the “foundations” category of courses.

Senior Capstone (1-2)

Interested students should begin thinking about a thesis at the end of their junior year. Those who elect to do Senior Seminar (SOC 199C) may take the Research Design course (SOC 199A) as one of the Foundations electives. 

• SOC 199C PZ -Senior Seminar  or SOC 199A PZ -Research Design for Thesis  (FA) and SOC 199B PZ -Senior Thesis  (SP)