Program Overview

Introduction to the Sociology/Social Studies Program

The Sociology/Social Studies program at Western Washington University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, social contexts, and the ways in which individuals' lives are shaped by various factors. The program focuses on topics such as crime and punishment, family formation and dissolution, bureaucracy in organizations, conflicts between classes, and global inequalities.

Program Description

The BA in Sociology/Social Studies leads to an endorsement in social studies, preparing students for careers in secondary education. The program requires completion of a teacher certification program, including the content methods course SEC 426, which can be taken as part of the undergraduate BA degree, as a post-baccalaureate program, or as part of the Master's in Education degree.

Why Consider a Sociology/Social Studies Major?

Sociology students develop critical thinking skills, improve their writing ability, and gain competence in statistical computing, enhancing their future career options. The program also provides opportunities for faculty-led study abroad programs, making it an excellent base of knowledge for individuals interested in becoming secondary-level social studies teachers.

Program Requirements

The program requires 81-85 credits, including:

• 40 credits of Sociology course requirements, consisting of:
  • One introductory course
  • Core requirements, including classical sociological theory, statistics for sociology, and sociological research methods
  • Three additional 300-level SOC electives under departmental advisement
  • One course from a list of options, including special topics in education or a senior thesis
• 41-45 credits of Social Studies course requirements, consisting of:
  • Human geography
  • Introduction to American civilization
  • World history
  • History of the Pacific Northwest
  • The American political system
  • Introduction to microeconomics and macroeconomics
  • One course from a list of options, including GIS, geography of the world economy, or urbanization

Admission and Declaration Process

The number of students admitted to the major is limited. To declare the major, students must:

• Complete at least 45 college-level credits
• Complete at least 5 credits in Sociology with a grade of C- or better
• Meet the criteria for one of two paths to becoming a Sociology major:
  • Path 1: Immediate declaration with a cumulative GPA of 2.85 or higher
  • Path 2: Application review with a cumulative GPA lower than 2.85

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors. Courses required for a state teaching endorsement must be completed with a grade of C (2.0) or better.

University Graduation Requirements

The program is subject to the university's general graduation requirements, including:

• Writing proficiency requirement
• 180 minimum total credits
• 60 minimum upper division credits
• Residency requirement
• Minimum grade requirements
• Final quarter requirement

By completing the Sociology/Social Studies program, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and social contexts, preparing them for careers in secondary education and beyond.