COURSE CURRICULUM

The Sociology major at St. Thomas University provides students with a structured and in-depth education in the study of social behavior, institutions, and inequality. To complete the major, students must earn at least 36 credit hours in Sociology, including a set of core courses that build both theoretical understanding and practical research skills. The program begins with SOCI 1006, Introduction to Sociology, a full-year foundational course that introduces students to key sociological concepts, perspectives, and the idea that personal experiences are deeply shaped by broader social forces.As students progress in the program, they are required to take SOCI 2013, Research Design and Method, and SOCI 2023, Understanding Statistics. These courses develop essential research competencies, including how to design sociological studies, gather and analyze data, and interpret findings using both qualitative and quantitative methods. These tools are fundamental to understanding and addressing complex social issues through a research-based lens.The major also includes a strong theoretical component. Students take SOCI 2033, Classical Sociological Theory, which explores the foundational ideas of thinkers such as Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Emile Durkheim. This is followed by SOCI 3023, Contemporary Sociological Theory, which examines modern frameworks and critical perspectives that have shaped current sociological thought. These courses encourage students to think analytically about the development and structure of societies.To complete the major, students must also take SOCI 4013, Senior Seminar. This advanced course typically involves independent research and allows students to synthesize their learning in a focused academic environment. It emphasizes discussion, analysis, and application of sociological knowledge to real-world issues.