Sociology/Social Studies

Department of Sociology, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Sociologists examine topics encompassing a vast array of human behavior: crime and punishment, the formation and dissolution of families, bureaucracy in organizations, conflicts between classes, and global inequalities. Sociology is distinctive in its focus on the way individuals’ lives are embedded within multiple social contexts that facilitate and constrain the range of possible actions. These contexts include generation, occupation, gender, religion, sexual orientation, family, health, nation, race and ethnicity, and many others.

Completion of the BA Sociology/Social Studies leads to an endorsement in social studies. To receive a recommendation for state of Washington certification for secondary education, students must complete the teacher certification program, including the content methods course SEC 426, which is offered by the Department of Secondary Education as 1) a part of the undergraduate BA degree, or 2) as a post-baccalaureate program, or 3) as part of the Master’s in Education degree.

See the Secondary Education section of this catalog for program admission, completion, and teacher certification requirements.

Sociology students develop an aptitude for critical thinking, improve their writing ability, and gain competence with statistical computing that will enhance their future career options. Sociology students also have the opportunity to participate in faculty-led study abroad programs.

A specialization in Sociology/Social Studies provides an excellent base of knowledge for individuals interested in becoming secondary-level social studies teachers.