Sociology
is the study of social action and social order, and the human relationships,
enduring institutions, and dynamic processes that keep those fundamental
forces in continuing tension. Sociology is, therefore, an encompassing
social science, with formal study ranging from world systems, national-states,
and large human population groups on the one hand (termed macrosociology),
to the study of parenting, peer groups and deviant behavior at the other
end of the continuum (microsociology). Course work offered at CSUB spans
this sociology spectrum, and students graduate into careers reflecting
this diversity.
Special
internships, employing analytical data through the on-campus Institute
for Social and Community Research, and mastering a foreign language
are the types of skills that enhance a graduate's job marketability
and/or graduate studies.
The
research specialties of the faculty offer further depth to department
offerings, and all students are urged to work closely with faculty on
individual studies, or serve as research assistants in the Institute
for Social and Community Research, or enroll in our closely monitored
internship programs. Each of these activities substantially enriches
the student's study and preparation.
Training
and Career Outlook:
Download
the Sociology Career Brief from Career Planning and Placement here.
(must
have Adobe Acrobat Reader to view.)
Technology
has increased communication among populations and cultures throughout
the world, and a pattern of change has emerged through this information
among basic institutions such as families--even science itself. There
will be a continuing need for highly skilled analysts in the social
sciences to track this change, and equally skilled social science practitioners
to manipulate this phenomenon.
Sociology
graduates have pursued careers in the fields of human services, marketing,
government, the justice system, education, personnel--indeed, in a wide
variety of positions focusing on human relationships, social problems,
social change, and race and ethnic relations. Examples of specific career
Gpositions held include social worker, probation officer, group home
supervisor, substance abuse prevention specialist, management analyst,
college professor, rehabilitation counselor, attorney, hospital personnel
officer, and numerous others.
Internships:
The
department is committed to providing opportunities for qualified Sociology
majors to obtain relevant experience in community settings. Internships
not only help develop professional skills; they also provide opportunities
to apply sociological knowledge to actual work situations. We have a
wide variety of placements available; these include working with delinquent
youth; mentoring at-risk elementary school children; working with persons
with disabilities, senior citizens, homeless persons, pregnant teens,
recovering alcohol and drug abusers, victims of domestic violence--and
on and on. Students can gain experience in program development, grant
writing, data analysis, public relations, urban planning, and other
administrative functions.
Still
need more information? Please visit the Sociology Department office
located in Dorothy Donahoe Hall, AA209, or contact the department at
661.654.2368.
