Sociology Program
Sociology Program
Texas A&M University-Texarkana offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology. Sociology is an illuminating and rewarding field of study that analyzes and explains important matters in our personal lives, our communities, and the world in which we live. At the personal level, sociologists investigate the social causes and consequences of such things like romantic love, racial, ethnic and gender identity, marriage and family relationships, deviant behaviors, health and wellness, aging and dying, inter-personal violence, and religious beliefs and practices. At the societal level, sociologists examine and explain matters, such as, crime and punishment, law and law enforcement, wealth and poverty, prejudice, stereotyping, discrimination, educational institutions, the medical field, business organizations, urban/suburban/rural communities, social movements, social stratification, and inequality. At the global level, sociologists study a variety of topics, such as population growth and trends, immigration, globalization, terrorism, war and peace, global poverty, human rights and freedoms, economic development, and more. Knowledge gained from these diverse areas of interest can serve as a broad base for careers in professions such as law, education, medicine, social work, social services, human services, law enforcement, higher education, journalism, politics, public service, business, or the criminal justice system. As a student, you will have the opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty and participate in various experiential learning opportunities, such as our internship program, our research opportunities, and our Senior Seminar course.
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Sociology students are typically interested in:
- helping others (such as through victim advocacy),
- collecting and/or working with data to find solutions to social problems,
- expanding their worldview in order to understand complex socio-cultural and socio-political trends,
- and having a versatile degree that will support them in a variety of work settings.
A degree in Sociology will offer you the opportunity to gain:
- Critical Thinking Skills
- Communication Skills
- Ability to Work in Teams
- Practical, “Real-World” Experiences
- Research, Data Analysis, Project Management Skills
- An Understanding of Diverse Communities & Perspectives
Featured Courses
SOC 495 - Sociology Internship
This course provides an opportunity for sociology majors or minors to be exposed to real world situations where they can apply their sociological knowledge and be able to see and appreciate where and how theory and practice meet in a variety of supervised work environments. Prerequisite: Senior standing or permission of instructor.
SOC 490 - Senior Seminar
Designed as a capstone experience for students of sociology, this course will both unify and synthesize knowledge gained throughout their undergraduate years by exploring connections between people and society. In addition to a general review of the theories, methods, and substantive areas covered in core sociology courses, the class will investigate various career options available to sociologists. Prerequisite: Major in sociology and senior standing or instructor permission.
SOC 315 - Law and Society
This course is an examination of the nature, functions, and limitations of law as an instrument of social control. Emphasis is placed on developing an understanding of the situational and systemic demands within which actors in the legal system operate and perform their roles and in developing a perspective which views law as a practical resource and as a mechanism for handling the widest range of unspecified social issues, problems, and conflicts. This course is cross listed with CJ 315.
SOCI 237 - Contemporary Social Issues and Concerns
This course involves the study of current issues of concern to Americans and people around the world. Issues relating to terrorism, crime and punishment, inequality, poverty, human rights and freedoms, immigration, health and healthcare, and global warming are explored along with their causes, consequences, and possible solutions.
SOCI 355 - Medical Sociology
This course provides students with the ability to apply social science concepts and approaches to understand the ways in which members of a culture diagnose and respond to illness. Sections reviewed in the course include doctor-patient interaction, the social construction of health and illness, the history of medical sociology, the health care system in contemporary society, alternative medical practices, and differential health outcomes by race, class, gender, sexuality, and geographical location.
My time spent within the Sociology Department at A&M-Texarkana provided me with the support, access, and education I needed to become a well-rounded person, as well as a professional. A&M-Texarkana truly cares about their students, as is evident by the faculty and staff I connected with. The Sociology Department strives to engage their students with an enriching curriculum, fantastic professors, and opportunities not found elsewhere. During the time I spent earning my bachelor’s degree, I had the opportunity to publish work, travel and present projects, engage with our community, and build lifelong relationships. I learned how to apply sociological theory to real life, while combining my knowledge with professional, hands-on opportunities provided to me by A&M-Texarkana. I truly believe that my time within this department has given me the skills and knowledge necessary to develop my career and continue my education. Combined with the affordability, location, and unwavering support I received; I cannot recommend it enough to prospective students.