Dec 03, 2024  
2004-2005 Springfield College Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2004-2005 Springfield College Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]


Applied Sociology Home Page

Sociology, Applied



Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Undergraduate Curricula

Sociology is the study of human relationships in societies.  It emphasizes the study of social organization, culture, change, and social problems which develop within societies. Students studying sociology learn how people are influenced by the social world and how people act as creators of this world. The curriculum is challenging, but it’s exciting to the student who wants to learn more about the influence of others on one’s self, and the influence one can have on others, in recreation, religious, familial, political, educational, or economic groups.

Students majoring in applied sociology receive a broad general education that assists them in their efforts to help others. The emphasis on application means that students are prepared to work within human services and related fields. Opportunities for internships exist in off-campus government agencies, voluntary associations, nonprofit organizations, and businesses. Students who major in applied sociology find careers in many fields, including education, government, civil rights, politics, community development, human services, and human resources work in business. Applied sociologists can make a contribution to any organization which needs people who can identify and analyze problems and thus contribute to their resolution. Many graduates seek advanced degrees in sociology, journalism, law, criminology, social work, business, or theology.

A student majoring in applied sociology must choose a concentration in either social work or community and leadership development. Minors and double majors in related or complementary fields are encouraged—for example, youth development, political science, psychology, or criminal justice.

For more information about the Applied Sociology major, contact Dr. Laurel R. Davis-Delano of the Social Science Department at (413) 748-3645 or the Admissions Office at (800) 343-1257.


Download an Applied Sociology Program Checksheet


CURRICULAR REQUIREMENTS


I. General Education Program (41 s.h. in addition to courses taken for the major)


To integrate the humanics philosophy into their lives, Springfield College students engage in the search for knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of values through a variety of courses in the sciences and humanities. In addition to those General Education courses, students must complete 6 s.h. of Writing-Across-the-Curriculum (WAC) courses. For more information see the General Education Program and WAC courses. In the major requirements listed below, selected courses which fulfill General Education categories are marked with an asterisk; selected WAC courses are marked with a “W”.

III. Required Concentration (18 s.h.)


Select one of the following concentrations:

IV. Electives (29 s.h. to complete 130)


Students are encouraged to consult with their advisor when choosing electives. Courses in a wide variety of disciplines may be selected, including criminal justice, sociology, recreation, health, political science, psychology, youth development, economics, history, religion, art therapy, and rehabilitation and disability studies.

V. Sample Program By Year


The program listed below is a sample—courses are not guaranteed to be offered during the semester or year listed. It is the student’s responsibility to insure that all requirements are met on a timely basis and that needed prerequisites courses are completed before taking upper-level requirements; therefore they should consult carefully with an advisor when planning their program. Students must average 16.25 s.h. a semester to complete this program in four years.

In addition to the courses identified below, the following General Education categories need to be fulfilled for this major: Natural Science, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physical Education, Health, Literature, Second Language/Culture, Visual and Performing Arts, History, Philosophy, and Religion.

Courses marked with an * fulfill or partially fulfill a General Education category. Courses marked with a W may fulfill a WAC requirement, depending on the year taken.

A. Sample First Year


  • General Education courses Credits: 18-21 s.h.

B. Sample Second Year


  • Concentration Requirements Credits: 6 s.h.
  • General Education courses and/or electives Credits: 15-18 s.h.

C. Sample Third Year


  • Concentration Requirements Credits: 6 s.h.
  • General Education courses and/or electives Credits: 15-18 s.h.

D. Sample Fourth Year


  • Concentration Requirements Credits: 6 s.h.
  • Any uncompleted General Education courses and/or electives to total 130 s.h.

Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Undergraduate Curricula