BS Degree in Sociology: Individualized Multidisciplinary Concentration
Checksheet
According to Ross Eshleman:
Sociology is the study of social life and the social causes and consequences of behavior. The term 'social life' encompasses all interpersonal relationships, all groups or collections of persons, and all types of social organizations. The 'causes and consequences of human behavior' encompasses ideals about the ways these relationships, groups and organizations are interconnected; how they influence personal and interpersonal behavior; how they affect and are affected by the larger society; how they change or why they remain static; and what the consequences of these factors are.
The very heart of sociology is its concern with the complexities and subtleties of human social life. To investigate these complexities and subtleties, and to provide a major in sociology with a career orientation, we offer several multidisciplinary tracks. These include Criminology and Social Control ; Applied Research ; Family Development ; Gerontology ; and Legal Studies . But, we cannot in one department always provide a major concentration to suit every interest and every need. Hence, we offer the option of an Individualized Multidisciplinary Concentration . This concentration must be worked out in close consultation with a student's advisor.
The most important personality trait for students opting for the Individualized Multidisciplinary Concentration is not an option for the ad hoc creation of a major simply from an amalgam of courses. It must be specifically related to a student's emerging interests and focused upon some specific outcome.
Sociology is a way of looking at behavior. The sociological perspective considers the individual as part of the larger society. Sociological skills include logical thinking, the ability to problem solve, to write and speak well, familiarity with data processing equipment, and statistical skills. These skills are constantly in demand in government, business, and education. In addition, skills derived from other disciplines add breadth to a student's knowledge and increase her/his ability to succeed in the chosen occupation.
Since the focus of the Individualized Multidisciplinary Concentration is unique to each student, general entry level positions tend to vary. In the past, students have used this option to prepare for careers in the ministry, environmental management, clinical sociology and para-legal studies.
Individualized Multidisciplinary majors generally have very specific career goals.
Master's and doctoral programs are available at many universities around the country. ASU offers an M.A. program in general sociology and M.S. programs in sociology and social science for those students interested in teaching in community colleges or high schools. Sociology majors have also entered graduate schools of Criminology and Criminal Justice, Education, Statistics, Psychology and Political Science--particularly in public administration programs. Individualized Multidisciplinary Majors have gone on to divinity school, law school or to special programs oriented toward their particular career interests. |
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