Nov 07, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Sociology Major, B.A.


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Department of Sociology and Anthropology  

College of Letters, Arts and Sciences  

  Available Program Format(s): In-Person  

About the Program


Sociology studies all aspects of society, from individuals to large organizations. The Sociology major emphasizes understanding human behavior as situated in cultural values, norms, and social structures as well as various social, religious, political and economic institutions. Required courses provide practice in applying the sociological theories and research methods sociologists use to analyze issues and address problems in the everyday social world. This focus enables sociology majors to apply these skills in a variety of work-related settings, or as a solid foundation for graduate school. Contact the Department of Sociology and Anthropology for additional information.

Student Outcomes


  1. Demonstrate knowledge of sociological theories and concepts necessary to understand human social behavior.
  2. Understands the statistical skills necessary to analyze and understand complex statistical relationships.
  3. Demonstrate the skills necessary to define problems, conduct research and apply this knowledge to solve social and work place related issues.
  4. Demonstrate general knowledge of core sociological concepts and theories regarding diversity, the urban environment, and social change.

General Degree Requirements


Program Requirements


  • A total of 120 semester hours are required for graduation. 
  • A grade of C- or better is required for each course in this program to count toward the bachelor’s degree. Students should note that programs differ in the minimum grade required. 
  • The student majoring in Sociology will take 21 required credits and 18 elective credits, for a total of 39 credits in the discipline. At least 12 upper-division semester hours in Sociology must be completed at MSU Denver by students majoring in Sociology. 
  • A minor is required for this program. 

General Studies Requirements: 33 credits


Students should consult the General Studies Requirements  for a list of courses that fulfill the General Studies Requirements for degree completion.  

  • Written Communication (6 credits)
  • Oral Communication (3 credits) 
  • Quantitative Literacy (3 credits)
  • Arts and Humanities (6 credits) 
  • Historical (3 credits) 
  • Natural and Physical Sciences (6 credits) 
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (6 credits)
  • Global Diversity (0 or 3 credits**)

 

** Students will fulfill the global diversity requirement by taking an approved course within one of the following categories: arts and humanities; historical; natural and physical sciences; or social and behavioral sciences.

Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Requirement: 0 or 3 credits


  • Students should consult the Ethnic Studies & Social Justice Graduation Requirement  for a list of courses that fulfill the ESSJ Requirement for degree completion.  
  • Many programs include courses that meet this requirement. Students should consult with their advisor to determine what program courses may fulfill this requirement. 

Required Courses: 18 credits


Additional Electives: 18 credits


A minimum of 18 additional semester hours in sociology are required to complete the major. Students may choose as electives any additional courses offered in sociology. The department recommends that the student’s choice of electives be made in consultation with a department advisor.

Summary of Requirements


General Studies Requirement 33 credits
ESSJ Requirement 0-3 credits
Major Requirements 18 credits
Electives 18 credits
Senior Experience 3 credits
Minor and Unrestricted Electives 45-54 credits
Total for the Sociology Major, B.A. 120 credits

Required courses for the major may also count for General Studies and ESSJ requirements, so the total credits listed may be greater than the number required to complete the degree. Therefore, it is important that you work with your advisor to make sure you are meeting requirements for your degree.

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