Behavioral and Social Sciences
Sociology
Sociology is the study of human societies and social behavior. It is both a science and a perspective. As a science, Sociology applies a wide range of formal methodologies to investigate the relationship between and among individuals, groups, and societies. As a perspective, Sociology helps enable us to view our society and other societies critically and objectively. Through Sociology we find that what we often think of as "common sense" is, in fact neither common nor sensical. Sociology students may also be interested in the Human Services Minor.
Students are often uncertain about what they can do with a degree in Sociology. Many believe that Sociology is an interesting field, but not a practical one. Nothing could be further from the truth. Individuals with degrees in Sociology may find employment in a wide variety of fields including: business and commerce, social services, education, government, research, marketing, journalism, health services, and many others. Sociology as an academic pursuit allows students to develop critical analysis skills including: problem solving, concept modeling, and writing. These are the skills most in demand and most rewarding in the ever-competitive job market of the global economy.
Sociology courses at the University of Montevallo include the following:
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SOC 230 Introductory Sociology
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SOC 240 Social Problems
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SOC 250 Marriage and Family
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SOC 260 Family and Child Issues and Services
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SOC 303 Selected Topics
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SOC 310 Sociology of Popular Music
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SOC 311 Substance Abuse
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SOC 320 Social Interaction
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SOC 321 Social Psychology
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SOC 322 Minorities
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SOC 324 Social Stratification
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SOC 341 Juvenile Delinquency
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SOC 342 Criminology
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SOC 352 Medical Sociology
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SOC 355 Research in Social Welfare
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SOC 360 Social Change
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SOC 370 Research in Social Sciences
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SOC 380 Mental Health Issues and Services
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SOC 393 Probation and Parole
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SOC 401 Social Gerontology
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SOC 402 Sociology of Education
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SOC 405 Urban Geography
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SOC 411 Selected Topics in Sociology
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SOC 445 Sex Roles, Gender, and Culture
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SOC 480 Development of Sociological Theory
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SOC 485 Senior Seminar in Social Science
Sociology majors must successfully complete each of the following courses:
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SOC 230 Introductory Sociology
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SOC 320 Social Interaction OR
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SOC 324 Social Stratification
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SOC 370 Research Methods in Social Sciences OR
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SOC 355 Research in Social Welfare
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SOC 480 Development of Sociological Theory
Additionally, majors must successfully complete an additional 18 hours of electives in Sociology or Anthropology. Upon declaring Sociology as a major, the student will establish a portfolio of work. Term papers, research projects and other course materials will be kept on file. Senior Sociology majors are expected to take the MFAT, a standardized exam which is used by the program to assess its performance. An exit interview is required of all graduating seniors.
Minors must successfully complete SOC 230, and at least 15 additional hours in Sociology.
The John B. Walters, Jr. Memorial Scholarship is awarded to enrolled students majoring in a social science field (Social Science, Political Science, Sociology, History), of a least sophomore standing and a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00. Preference is given to applicants who are preparing for a career in international relations. Applications are available through the Department of Behavioral and Social Sciences. The deadline is February 1, for the fall awards.
If you are interested in more information or have questions regarding sociology at the University of Montevallo, please contact:
Dr. Stephen Parker
University of Montevallo
Station 6177
Montevallo, AL 35115
(205) 665-6177