Sociology is the study of social life, including individuals, groups, organizations, institutions, and societies. Sociologists investigate the social causes and consequences of human behavior and interaction, such as inequality, poverty, discrimination, and urbanization. While offering a general sociology curriculum, the program specializes in the study of race, ethnicity and gender, work, labor markets and organizations, and urban sociology. Students majoring in Sociology will gain an understanding of, and the ability to use, key sociological theories, methodological approaches, and analytical skills, in building sociological knowledge.

A major in Sociology will prepare students to undertake graduate studies in sociology and other fields such as other social sciences, social work, law, urban planning, and public health. It is also an excellent preparation for a wide variety of occupations in business and industry, justice system, community and social services, government, education, and research.

BA with a Major in Sociology

The Department of Sociology offers programs leading to the Bachelor of Arts with a Major or Minor in Sociology.

Degree Requirements

To earn a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences degree from UIC, students must complete University, college, and department degree requirements. The Department of Sociology degree requirements are outlined below. Students should consult the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences section for additional degree requirements and college academic policies.

The Sociology major is composed of a set of five core requirements; three 200-level Sociology electives, and two 400-level Sociology electives.

The five core requirements are:

SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology (3 hrs) or SOC 105 Social Problems (3 hrs)           

SOC 201 Introduction to Statistics (4 hrs)                                                                          

SOC 300 Introduction to Sociological Research Methods (4 hrs)                                             

SOC 385 Introduction to Sociological Theory (3 hrs)                                                                

SOC 490 Senior Research Experience (4 hrs)

SOC 385 Fulfills the Writing-in-the-Discipline Requirements  

BA with a minor in Sociology

Students from other disciplines who want to minor in Sociology must complete 15 semester hours as outlined below.

Requirements:                                                                                                                        

SOC 100 Introduction to Sociology (3 hrs) or SOC 105 Social Problems (3 hrs)                     

Three courses at the 200 or 300 level                                                                                     

One 400 level course

Distinction

To be considered for distinction, students must obtain a 3.00/4.00 overall GPA, plus the following:

•    3.50/4.00 GPA in the major for distinction;
•    3.75/4.00 GPA in the major for high distinction;
•    3.75/4.00 GPA in the major, satisfactory completion of SOC 499 (Thesis Research), and completion of a senior thesis for highest distinction signed by a faculty advisor and filed in the department.

Note: The GPA will be calculated using all of the credit that are being applied to the degree —from UIC and from any transfer institution.