Sociology

Bachelor of Arts

Sociologists seek to understand how individuals interact with and are shaped by institutions, organizations, and cultures.

They investigate the underlying forces to show us the ways in which many of our personal troubles are rooted in larger social problems.

The Curriculum
Gain perspective on a personal and global scale

You will receive rigorous theoretical and methodological training, gaining meaningful insights for understanding all levels of society—from the intimate micro-interactions of everyday life to the macro-dynamics of globalization.

Produce sociological knowledge

There are two required research method courses. Your professors will provide one-on-one mentorship while you conduct research on topics of your choice. You can then expand your projects into research papers and go on to present at local, regional, and national conferences.

Experience that matters—and makes a difference

Travel seminars and local field trips expose you to cultural diversity and transnational communities. This broadens your analytical perspectives and develops cross-cultural skills. In the Applied Sociology course, you will apply your knowledge and skills to solve social issues that are relevant to your internship with a non-profit organization or government agency.

A broad range of elective courses

Explore specific interests through elective courses covering topics such as:

  • Gender
  • Race and Ethnic Relations
  • Deviance in U.S. Society
  • Religion and Culture
  • Sexuality
  • Popular Culture
  • Immigration
  • Medical Sociology
  • Families and Intimate Relationships


Programs

Offered as a major (BA) and a minor.


Recommended Minors

Want to add even more value to your degree? Consider one of these minors to gain a unique combination of skills and perspectives.


The Experience

Sociology and Political Science major Maria Reyes studies the identity construction of first-generation Latina college students, who are viewed as a new generation navigating the world between two different cultures and identities. With her research, Reyes aims to figure out how the American and Latin cultures are mixed and result in this distinct identity.

Maria Reyes

We had a unique shared experience of witnessing the peak of social injustice movements spreading worldwide in recent events. While there was so much loss and unpredictability, I felt each class was a safe space, and I credit my classmates and professors for curating that environment.

India LaRhoda '21

Your Future

Graduates are able to effectively evaluate social issues and understand social change. They employ the critical perspective and research skills they learned as sociology majors and feel empowered to make positive contributions in an increasingly diverse and global society.

Our alumni are well prepared for graduate study and professional work in sociology, social work, law, public health, non-profit management, teaching, and other fields that require the ability to think ethically and critically about a wide range of key issues.


Our alumni study at:
  • Boston University
  • California State University, Northridge
  • Cornell University
  • George Mason University
  • Golden Gate University Law School
  • The London School of Economics and Political Science
  • University of Barcelona
  • University of California, Davis
  • University of California, Los Angeles
  • University of Denver
  • University of Southern California
  • Vanderbilt University

 

Our alumni work for:
  • American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
  • American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
  • Boys & Girls Club
  • Catholic Charities USA
  • Girls Incorporated
  • Human Rights Campaign
  • Lutheran Social Services
  • SAGE Publications
  • Symantec
  • University of San Diego
Career paths:
  • Counseling
  • Higher Education Administration
  • Human Resources
  • K-12 Teacher
  • Lawyer
  • Marketing
  • Non-profit Management
  • Public Health
  • Research
  • Social Work

of Cal Lutheran graduates find a job or enroll in graduate school within nine months

More Career Outcomes



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