What Are the Courses Required for a Degree in Sociology?

The curriculum required for a sociology degree depends on the university but some of the courses include English, history, the sciences, some math courses, and foreign languages. These courses are helpful in understanding how society works.

Political Science

A few degree programs in sociology may require you to take a political science course. This is important because politics and social issues are intertwined. If you plan to work as a social worker in an at-risk community, you'll need to know the political and cultural issues that affect them.

Psychology

Some sociology programs require you to take a psychology course because in sociological careers, you'll need compassion and understanding for the person who made certain choices in life due to a dysfunctional family background or trauma.

Statistics

Since sociologists often deal with surveys and compiling data for research purposes, they need to take courses in statistics. These courses help students gather and analyze data accurately.

Human Sexuality

In some sociology degree programs, students may take a course in human sexuality. Sexuality shapes society in profound ways, and sociologists may come across situations in their careers where sexuality plays a role in the lives of their subjects.

Law

Social issues and the legal system are also connected so some degree programs may require students to take a course that combines these two elements. For example, a student may take a course that deals with race relations and law enforcement.

References

• University of California Berkeley: Sociology
• University of Chicago: Sociology
• Harvard Department of Sociology