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Sociology
Sociology, the study of human society, is a broadly based liberal arts and research discipline — one of the most diversified, interesting, and practical disciplines there is. Sociologists are devoted to the study of social groups and processes, using applied logic in combination with empirical research to ascertain “what is” and “what can be.”
We believe that it is the task of sociologists to conduct critical public debate about social institutions. We seek to contribute to that debate and equip our students with the skills to do so too.
Our Sociology major will give you extensive knowledge of the key social factors affecting human behaviour and also develop your skills in designing and evaluating research. Sociology students develop many skills including:
Substantive skills
Sociologists develop the ability to understand social forces at work in society so that they can better evaluate proposed changes or resistances to change.
Analytical skills
The ability to identify the contributing parts of a problem and to evaluate proposals for change.
Critical thinking skills
Sociology students, whether taking courses focused on the family, race and ethnicity, Canadian society, health, criminology, or work, learn to synthesize existing theoretical knowledge, and research information, and the processes of evaluating arguments and solutions.
Research and data analysis skills
Sociology students learn how data is collected and analyzed, how data is used to test hypotheses, and how to evaluate the work presented in research studies and the popular media.
Communication skills
Sociology courses provide practise in effective communication in written and oral forms. Students are encouraged to develop their ability to explain and interpret as well as to clarify and summarize.
