Sociology, Associate in Science (SOC)

Program Overview

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The Associate in Science degree in Sociology at Delaware County Community College provides a foundation in sociological concepts, research methods, and social issues. It equips students with the knowledge and skills to pursue a bachelor's degree in Sociology or careers in fields such as social work, education, and public health. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and the application of sociological principles to real-world situations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Associate in Science degree program in Sociology at Delaware County Community College is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills for students planning to pursue a bachelor's degree in Sociology or seeking a deeper understanding of societal behavior. The program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of group dynamics, social interactions, and the environmental influences that shape human behavior.

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Objectives:

Upon successful completion of the Sociology program, students are expected to achieve several learning outcomes:

• Grasp the fundamental characteristics and methodologies of sociology as a scientific discipline.
• Distinguish between major theoretical perspectives in examining group behavior in society.
• Understand significant sociological aspects of human development across the life cycle.
• Analyze the process of socialization and its impact on individuals.
• Identify the causes and potential remedies for social disruption.
• Recognize the societal influences that affect groups in contemporary society.

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Outline:

The Sociology program's curriculum is structured to provide a solid foundation in sociological concepts and research methods. It consists of four semesters with the following key components:

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First Semester:

• SOC 110: Introduction to Sociology
• ENG 100: English Composition I
• HIS 150 or HIS 160: World Civilizations I or II
• Elective in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics
• Humanities Elective

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Second Semester:

• ENG 112: English Composition II: Writing About Literature
• SOC 210: Cultural Anthropology
• MAT 121: Introduction to Probability and Statistics
• Elective in Sociology: Experiences in Diversity or The Sociology of Race and Immigration
• Lab Science Elective

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Third Semester:

• HIS 150 (if not taken in the first semester): World Civilizations I
• MAT 210: Statistics
• SOC 120: Social Problems
• PSY 140: General Psychology
• CS 100 or CS 101: Introduction to Information Technology or Introduction to Computer Science

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Fourth Semester:

• COMM 111: Public Speaking
• SOC 180: Marriage and the Family
• SOC 220: Social Psychology
• Humanities Elective
• Open Elective

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress:

• Exams: Regular examinations assess students' understanding of course material, theories, and concepts.
• Assignments: Written assignments, research projects, and presentations allow students to demonstrate their analytical skills, research abilities, and ability to apply sociological knowledge.
• Class Participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities is considered in the overall assessment.
• Final Projects: Comprehensive projects or research papers may be required to demonstrate students' synthesis of course content and critical thinking skills.

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Teaching:

The Sociology program is taught by experienced faculty with strong academic credentials and a passion for the field. Teaching methods include:

• Interactive Lectures: Engaging lectures present core sociological concepts and theories.
• Class Discussions: Students actively participate in discussions to share perspectives, analyze case studies, and apply theories to real-world situations.
• Group Projects: Collaborative projects foster teamwork, problem-solving skills, and the application of sociological knowledge to practical issues.
• Research Projects: Students conduct research projects to develop their analytical and critical thinking abilities.

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Careers:

The Associate in Science degree in Sociology prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths in fields such as:

• Social Work
• Human Services
• Education
• Public Health
• Criminal Justice
• Market Research
• Policy Analysis
• Non-profit Management