Sociology

SOCIOLOGY Overview

At our Sociology Department, we are dedicated to exploring the rich tapestry of human society through the lens of scientific inquiry. Sociology is a broad and dynamic discipline that allows us to delve deeply into the intricacies of human group behavior and the profound implications of human social patterns.

Success Resources

The sociological perspective in conjunction with the perspectives offered through anthropology, criminal justice, geography, and political science rounds out the interdisciplinary approach taken for various majors. At transfer institutions, areas of concentration in social science include anthropology, geography, gerontology, leadership, and general social science. As you continue your education, remember that Sociology majors and minors and Social Science majors and minors traverse through a curriculum that conveys the interconnectedness of social, political, and economic spheres at the local, state, regional, national, and international levels.

Department Contacts

  • Humanities, Social Sciences, and Arts Division
  • (408) 288-3785

Sociology Student Learning Outcomes

  • Appraise sociology as an empirical discipline and illustrate the sociological perspectives.
  • Compare the major tools and methods sociologists use to gather data and assess the ethical considerations involved in sociological research and the guidelines  sociologists follow.
  • Define culture and identify its major elements.
  • Define socialization and evaluate the consequences of global stratification.
  • Evaluate the influence of agents of socialization, such as the mass media and family, according to how each influences public attitudes and behaviors towards women, racial and ethnic minorities, gays and lesbians, and the process of aging.

    Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

    The Sociology program at SJCC explores human group behavior and the consequences of social patterns. It examines a wide range of human interactions, including marriage and family units, crime and deviance, culture and social change, and group processes related to class, race, and gender. The program emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, political, and economic spheres at various levels.

    SJCC offers an Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer (AA-T) degree. This degree meets the lower division course requirements necessary for transfer to the California State University (CSU) system. It provides a comprehensive foundation in sociology, preparing students for further study in the field.

    The Sociology program includes courses such as:

    • Introduction to Sociology: Covers fundamental concepts and principles in sociology, including culture, social structure, socialization, social institutions, groups, social interaction, social inequality, collective behavior, and social change.
    • Marriage and Family: Examines the sociological aspects of marriage and family structures, dynamics, and issues.
    • Social Problems: Analyzes contemporary social issues, their causes, and potential solutions.
    • Race and Ethnic Relations: Explores the social dynamics of race and ethnicity, including patterns of discrimination and inequality.

    Graduates of the Sociology program can pursue careers in various fields, including:

    • Social services
    • Community organizing
    • Public policy analysis
    • Research
    • Education

    Yes, SJCC has student clubs and organizations where Sociology students can engage in discussions, community events, and service projects.