Sociology
Mount Saint Mary's College

Sociology

Degrees

New GIS Minor

GIS (Geographic Information Systems) is a field of study that combines spatial theory, GIS technology and software, geographic data and analysis (including GPS and field work), and cartographic design principles for the purpose of exploring and understanding the world around us from a spatial perspective.

Employers in the most competitive industries continue to seek applicants whose resumes include additional computational skills beyond the Microsoft Office Suite, and having a GIS Minor would give students an "edge" in the workforce. According to the most recent edition of the Harvard Business Review, one of the most valuable jobs emerging in the 21st century is that of the "data scientist," which includes skills such as knowing how to find, manipulate and interpret different types of data. Being able to work with and visualize spatial data using GIS technology will be an invaluable tool for any student in a variety of majors and concentrations.

A GIS Minor is particularly valuable when paired with the following fields of study: Sociology, Business Administration, Biology and the STEM Sciences, though it is not confined to these disciplines. For instance, someone pursuing a career in urban planning, law enforcement, environmental science, forensics, health care and health policy, epidemiology, marketing, etc., could benefit greatly with a background in GIS, as nearly every company or governmental agency uses GIS within their organization.

B.S. Degree in Sociology core required courses
  • SOC 1 Introduction to Sociology (3)
  • SOC 117 Quantitative Research Methods (3)
  • SOC 118 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
  • SOC 160 Diversity in Society (3) or SOC 161 Majority-Minority Relations (3)
  • SOC 162 Human Rights (3)
  • SOC 166 Sociological Theory (3)
  • SOC 175 Urban Sociology (3)
  • SOC 197 Internship and Practicum--two semesters (6)
  • Plus 8 additional courses in sociology, which can consist of one specialization in sociology (see six options listed below in B.A. for Sociology) (24)

Total units for B.S. degree in Sociology: 50
No lower division courses in sociology can be applied for the B.S. in Sociology other than SOC 1.

 
B.A. Degree in Sociology core required courses
  • SOC 1 Introduction to Sociology (3)
  • SOC 117 Quantitative Research Methods (3)
  • SOC 118 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
  • SOC 162 Human Rights  (3)
  • SOC 166 Sociological Theory (3)
  • SOC 197 Internship and Practicum--two semesters (6)

Plus five additional courses in sociology. A maximum of 12 lower division units in Sociology may be counted toward completion of the major. These units cannot, however, include lower division internship units (SOC 25).

Total units for B.A. degree in Sociology: 36

To fulfill a B.A. Degree in Sociology students must complete the sociology requirements, the general studies requirements, which includes a language requirement, for a total of 124 units. 

 
Areas of Specialization

The following specializations within the sociology major are available, but not required. However, a specialization can enhance your preparation for certain career directions, as discussed within each specialization. The courses required within each specialization will count toward the required 36 units for the B.A. in sociology.

For the B.S. or B.A. degrees in Sociology, there are six specialization options:

  • Criminology—Excellent preparation for careers in law enforcement, probation, crime prevention, law studies, and rehabilitation programs for at-risk populations (children, youth, and adults).
  • Global Development and Human Rights—Designed as preparatory for graduate studies or entry-level careers in areas such as human rights advocacy, international social work, working in international non-governmental agencies (NGOs), environmental advocacy, and global agencies such as the Red Cross and a range of United Nations' agencies or affiliates (e.g. World Health Organization).
  • Medical Sociology—Recommended for health services professionals, such as medical social work, health care policy, and healthcare management.
  • Communications—Preparation for careers in mass media, such as film, television and radio broadcasting production.
  • Social Services—Preparation for careers in social work, non-profit organizations, and government social service agencies.
  • Family Relations—For students interested in working with couples and families in a variety of social service settings.
 
Minor in Sociology

A minimum of six courses, two of which must include:

  • SOC 1 Introduction to Sociology (3)
  • SOC 166 Sociological Theory (3)

Plus four elective courses in the Sociology curriculum.

Total units for the Minor in Sociology: 18

 
Minor in GIS

A minimum of six courses, two of which must include:

Total units for the Minor in Sociology: 18

GIS elective courses:

Additional GIS Courses (Not Required)

  • GIS 150: Remote Sensing
  • GIS 160: Introduction to Data Management
  • GIS 170: Advanced Spatial Modeling