Sociology
Mission Statement
The Sociology Department at Central Methodist University offers a program of study designed to complement and strengthen a broad liberal arts education. In the major, students acquire knowledge and skills related to sociological thought, research methods, and the study of institutions.
Students majoring in sociology acquire a broad understanding of the discipline with special emphasis on the sociological perspective, social theory, social research methods, and data analysis. Students develop abilities to explain and analyze a variety of social problems with an emphasis on the complex problems of inequality based on race, class, gender, and sexuality. Within the curriculum, students develop skills in writing and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to engage in active learning in the classroom and in the community.
The department seeks to provide a challenging and well-rounded education serving as a solid foundation for students who pursue professional or graduate studies or who embark on a career after earning their bachelor’s degree.
Sociology Program Outcomes
Sociological Reasoning
- Demonstrate sociological reasoning by describing how individual biographies are shaped by social structures and/or social interactions.
Research Methods
- Demonstrate understanding of qualitative and/or quantitative research methods.
Theory
- Demonstrate understanding of classical and/or contemporary sociological theorists.
Social Inequalities
- Demonstrate knowledge of social inequalities based on race, class, gender or sexuality.
Field of Study
- Demonstrate knowledge in a substantive field, for example: deviance, criminology, social psychology, family, or popular culture.
Professional Employment
- Secure professional employment.