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Bates College Course in - Sociology
Bates College

Bates College

Course in - Sociology

Lewiston, USA

BA

English

Sep 2026

On-Campus

Key Summary

    About: The course in Sociology offers an in-depth exploration of social behaviors, structures, and institutions. You'll engage with themes such as culture, identity, and social change, employing various research methods and theoretical frameworks. The curriculum is designed to help you critically analyze societal patterns and contribute to meaningful discussions around contemporary issues.
    Career Outcomes: Graduates can pursue a range of careers in social research, community development, public policy, and education. Roles may include sociologist, policy analyst, market researcher, or community outreach coordinator, providing opportunities to make a positive impact in various sectors.

The sociology curriculum is designed to introduce students to a sociological perspective, which explores social structures and their intersections with individual lives. Courses address a wide range of social phenomena, from patterns of everyday interaction to social and political revolutions. Sociology as a discipline focuses on recognizing and analyzing social determinants that shape our lives. That focus offers a unique potential for understanding society and social action, and social change.

The courses offered in sociology include a variety of 100- and 200-level courses introducing sociology and many of the specific topics and issues addressed by sociologists. Most 200-level courses are open to first-year students and have no prerequisites. The core courses for the major also begin at the 200 level. These core courses focus on developing the skills and tools necessary for a more advanced application of a sociological perspective, preparing students for more advanced course work and thesis research.

The methods and substantive areas of sociology provide an excellent background for a wide range of careers in fields such as government, public policy, law, social research, community work, social activism, health, human services, social work, counselling, education, business, human resources, advertising, and market research, as well as a strong foundation for graduate study in sociology and a variety of applied or related areas including law, criminal justice, social work, business, public policy and public administration, urban and community planning, health care administration, public health, education, survey research administration, and journalism.