Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Program Overview

Explore and analyze the many unique relationships connecting our personal lives, our communities, and the world.

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

  • Four-Year BA Program

Time to Complete

Full Time: 4 Years

Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in Sociology at AIC?

Sociology is the study of society and social relationships. It is a social science field of study that analyzes and explains important matters in our personal lives, our communities, and the world. 

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at American International College prepares students for careers in applied sociology, public policy, business, social work, law, and teaching, among others. Course offerings include sociological foundations, as well as cultural anthropology and social work. You’ll build an understanding of key sociological concepts, design, and the approaches used in research, while employing ethical practices related to cultural relativism and social justice.

A field with connections to nearly all aspects of human society, a Sociology degree will equip you with the skills needed to succeed in a wide array of fields including business, industry, community, social services, research, education, and more.

What to Expect

  • Internships: Partnerships with local nonprofit organizations offer hands-on experience through internship placements to make a difference even while you’re still in school.
  • Teaching assistant opportunities: Guide the learning process as a junior or senior, engaging new students in psychology topics.
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program prepares students for a wide range of career paths or future graduate studies.

  • Students will explain the role of theory in sociology
  • Students will explain the role of evidence and qualitative/quantitative research methods
    • Identify basic methodological approaches and describe the general role of methods in building sociological knowledge
    • Compare and contrast the basic methodological approaches for gathering data;
    • Design a research study in an area of choice and explain why various decisions were made
    • Evaluates a published research report and explain how the study could have been improved
  • Students will explain the role of social structure in society
  • Identify how institutions interlink in their effects on each other and on individuals
  • Summarize how social change factors affect social structures and individuals
  • Explain how social structures vary across time and place and the effect of such variations
  • Evaluate specific policy implications using reasoning about social structural effects
  • Students will explain the role of internal diversity and inequality in American society
  • Describe social variations by race, class, gender and age in our society
  • Explain the processes through which prejudice and discrimination are created and perpetuated in society
  • Summarize the social factors that create and perpetuate inequality
  • Evaluate the impact of social inequality on social structures and on differences of individuals

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology:

  • SOC1100: Introduction to Sociology 
  • SOC1400: Social Problems 
  • SOC2631: Sociological Research Methods* 
  • SOC2800: Sociological Theory 
  • SOC4896: Senior Capstone***** 
  • SOC4899: Internship in Sociology** 

Choose 6 elective courses in Sociology:  

  • SOC2400: Crime and Deviance*** 
  • SOC2410: Deviance and Social Control*** 
  • SOC2420: Sociology of Institutions 
  • SOC2430: Sociology of Family 
  • SOC2600: Class, Status and Power 
  • SOC2621: Sociology of Aging 
  • SOC2643 Sociology of Work 
  • SOC2650 Sociology of Globalization 
  • SOC3243 Race and Racism 
  • SOC3280 Sociology of Popular Culture 
  • SOC3430 Sociology of Religion 
  • SOC3440 Sociology of Health**** 
  • SOC3630 Gender in Society 
  • SOC3825 Special Topics in Sociology 

*May substitute SOC2631 with PSY3615,CRJ2350,or PCH4100 Research Methods. **May substitute SOC4899 with CRJ4979,PSY4899,PCH3066 if a double major in Criminal Justice, Psychology or Public Health. ***May substitute SOC2400 or SOC2410 with CRJ3842 Criminology. ****May substitute SOC3440 with PCH3200 Disparities in Health. *****May substitute for a sociology elective course if not offered

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Minor Courses: Students must complete all courses listed here to earn a Minor in Sociology:

  • SOC1100: Introduction to Sociology 
  • SOC1400: Social Problems 
  • SOC2800: Sociological Theory 

Plus three additional upper-level sociology courses.

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Individuals interested in studying sociology at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Community and Human Services Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student.

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Human Services program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

AIC’s many clubs, student organizations, and service opportunities let you meet like-minded, driven individuals as you channel your creative passions:

  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your identity while managing a club’s resources, funds, and goals. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our Assistant Dean and Division Chair or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Sandra Sego, PhD
Assistant Dean, Division of Life and Social Sciences

Phone: 413.205.3207
Email: sandra.sego@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

What Can You Do with a Sociology degree?

Job Titles

AIC Sociology majors begin careers as:

  • Program Coordinators
  • Human Resource Professionals
  • Community Outreach Specialists
  • Behavioral Technicians
  • Case Managers
  • Research Assistants

Salary Expectations

Each year through 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 310,000 openings in the community and social services fields, including for:

Internship Opportunities

A key facet of the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences is the opportunity for internships with local companies and organizations that provide real-world experiences. AIC students have found internship positions with:

  • Behavioral Health Network (BHN)
  • ServiceNet, Inc
  • Helix Human Services
  • Gandara Center
  • Center for Human Development (CHD)
  • Department of Youth Services (DYS)

Related Programs

Channel your passion for understanding society and culture into a meaningful career path with any of these other programs offered at AIC:

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success: