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Sociology

The Sociology Program provides our majors, both general and criminology emphasis, with a solid foundation of substantive knowledge. Beyond emphasizing content in sociological theory and research methodology, the general emphasis program leads majors to study social inequality and other mainstream sociological areas of inquiry. The criminology emphasis program, also emphasizing content in sociological theory and research methodology, includes courses in criminological theory and juvenile delinquency. Majors in sociology are prepared to enter careers in a wide array of human social services, both in and out of law enforcement, juvenile delinquency programming, or corrections, or they may further their education by going on to graduate school.


The Sociology Program

Students who complete a major in sociology will have an enhanced understanding of human aggregate behavior, skills in utilizing and evaluating social research, improved communication and interpersonal skills, and a broadened understanding of how social-structural processes and forces influence human behavior and patterns of contemporary thought, thereby incorporating critical thinking skills.

Careers

Graduates are exposed to a wide range of opportunities from state and local agencies. Graduates of the Sociology program are prepared and qualified for a career in:

  • Social and Human Services Assistant
  • Clinical Sociologist
  • Case Worker
  • Crisis Intervention Social
  • Family Services Social Worker
  • Childcare Specialist
  • Substance Abuse Social Worker
  • Employment Specialist

Internships

Internships are a great way to enhance professional capabilities and strengthen your networking status. Sociology majors are required by faculty to participate in 100 hours of internship experience, so students can apply course concepts and generate a better understanding of social interaction at professional levels. Students and professors work together to find local opportunities suitable for college level experience. Internship opportunities for Sociology students include:

  • American Red Cross
  • Army Community Services
  • Oskaloosa Police Department
  • State Law Enforcement
  • Department of Human Services
  • Crisis Intervention
  • Suicide Hotline

Faculty

Michael Collins, Ph.D.

Social and Behavioral Sciences Division Chair, Professor of Sociology 641-673-1393 Email

Michael O. Johnston, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Sociology 641-673-1346 Email

Organizations

William Penn University’s Social and Behavioral Sciences Club is designed for student development within leadership positions, and creating a social environment directed toward generating skills pertaining to social and psychological analysis. The Club is open to all Penn students

Courses

As a student of the Sociology program, you will take the following courses:

Sociology Core courses

  • SOCI 101 Introduction to Sociology or
  • SOCI 123 Sociology of Contemporary Issues
  • SOCI 335 Social Research Methods
  • SOCI 350 Social Theory
  • SOCI 390 Sociology Practicum

Sociology – General EMPHASIS

  • SOCI 217 Ethnic and Race Relations or
  • SOCI 219 Sex and Gender in Society
  • SOCI Electives
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Sociology – Criminology EMPHASIS

  • SOCI 211 Introduction to Criminology
  • SOCI 218 Juvenile Delinquency
  • SOCI 328 Criminological Theory and Practice
  • SOCI Electives

Criminology Minor courses

  • SOCI 101 Introduction to Sociology or SOCI 123 Sociology of Contemporary Issues
  • SOCI 211 Introduction to Criminology
  • SOCI 328 Criminology Theory
  • SOCI 335 Social Research Methods
  • SOCI Electives (6 Hours)

Religion Minor courses

  • Fifteen hours from any Religion Class (including Special Topics)

Sociology Minor courses

  • SOCI 101 Introduction to Sociology or SOCI 123 Sociology of Contemporary Issues
  • SOCI 335 Social Research Methods
  • SOCI 350 Social Theory
  • SOCI Electives (9 Hours)