Sociology
Our sociology program develops students’ abilities to comprehend our diverse society by applying sociological concepts, theories, and research methods to an analysis of the relationship between social structures and individual actions, and by examining forms of social inequalities such as race, ethnicity, and gender in a global context. Students also develop the ability to think critically and apply scholarly approaches to understanding society.
About Sociology
Sociology is a social science that explores the patterns of human interaction and the relationship of humans to societal institutions like family, mass media and the economy. It is a science that focuses on the connections between individual and group life. Sociologists use scientific research methods to examine such diverse topics as culture, gender, development of self, group dynamics, social class, race and ethnicity, and other features of society.
Program Opportunities
MC does not offer a degree or certificate in sociology, though the courses fulfill social science requirements for the General Studies Social Sciences, Administration, and Health Core (SSAH) and social science distribution requirements for the General Education Program.
Student Opportunities
Sociology courses lay a solid academic foundation for numerous majors. Many MC students plan to transfer to a four-year college or university to complete their BA or BS in sociology.
If you are planning to transfer to a four-year school, you will need to look at the transferability of the individual class you want to take. MC’s transfer planning will help you prepare for your next step.
Articulations with Four Year Colleges and Universities
UMBC and Montgomery College offer an articulation agreement in conjunction with the Universities at Shady Grove that enables students to complete a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Work with a concentration and minor in Sociology. Social Work majors with minors in Sociology have a wide range of career options available to them when they graduate. Some pursue additional educational training while others choose to enter the work force immediately. Students take their lower division courses at Montgomery College and complete their upper division courses at UMBC at the Universities at Shady Grove location in Rockville, MD. Additional time at Montgomery College and UMBC may be needed for completion of all of the requirements.
Find out more about transfer opportunities in Sociology.
The information provided here does not indicate a comprehensive listing of all degree requirements. Additional information about academic rules and regulations can be found in each institutions catalog. Every student should consult an advisor every semester about appropriate course selection for meeting the following requirements.
Transfer
Do you plan to transfer to another Maryland college or university? Learn more about transferability through ARTSYSnew window, the Articulation System.
Certificate in Ethnic Social Studies
Migration and globalization have contributed to the diversity of the United States and Montgomery County in particular. Many organizations and businesses see the need for training individuals to learn about ‘others’ so that they can interact cooperatively, be more sensitive to individuals of other ethnic groups, and participate more effectively in a multicultural environment in their work. Find out more about MC's certificate in ethnic social studies.
Sociology Courses
All students should review the advising sheet and consult an advisor. Most courses have either assessment levels that must be met or prerequisites (courses that must be taken first). Part-time students and those who need to meet assessment levels or take prerequisite courses will take longer to complete a degree. An advisor will help make sure you are taking your courses in the right order.
All degree-seeking students must take a central group of General Education courses in English, mathematics, arts, behavioral and social sciences, humanities, and science.
Resources
- American Sociological Associationnew window
- Southern Sociological Societynew window
- Eastern Sociological Societynew window
- The District of Columbia Sociological Societynew window
Related Programs and Courses
General Studies Degree
Students who major in general studies explore personal, professional, and academic areas of interest within a flexible framework supporting transfer.
Workforce Development and Continuing Education
MC offers a wide variety of noncredit classes. These courses are designed to help you upgrade your skills, pursue career training, or learn something new.