Sociology Program Student Learning Goals and Outcomes

Goal 1: Knowledge base of sociology: Demonstrate understanding of the discipline of sociology, major concepts, and sociology’s role in contributing to our understanding of social reality.

     Student Learning Outcome(s)
        1.1 Apply principles, concepts, and the sociological imagination to at least one area of social reality.

     Liberal Education Program Goal(s)
        LEP 4:  Understand both physical and social aspects of the world and their place in it.
        LEP 6: Analyze moral judgements and engage in moral discourse.
        LEP 7: Practice responsible citizenship in their local and global communities

Goal 2: Role of Theory: Understand and apply theory and its role in building sociological knowledge.

     Student Learning Outcome(s)
        2.1 Compare and contrast basic theoretical perspectives.
        2.2 Apply basic theories to at least one area of social reality.

     Liberal Education Program Goal(s)
        LEP 3:  Be creative thinkers able to identify, formulate, and solve problems using interdisciplinary perspectives

Goal 3: Social Research Methods: Demonstrate understanding of the role of social research methods in sociology.

     Student Learning Outcomes
        3.1 Identify and apply basic methodological approaches used in building sociological knowledge.
        3.2 Understand the value of empirical evidence and act ethically in pursuit of knowledge.

     Liberal Education Program Goal
        LEP 4:  Understand both physical and social aspects of the world and their place in it.

Goal 4: Diversity: Understand the internal diversity of the United States and its place in the international context

     Student Learning Outcomes
        4.1 Demonstrate an understanding of variations across social groups and the significance of these variations.

     Liberal Education Program Goal
       LEP 5:  Embrace the similarities among peoples and appreciate the diversity that enriches the human experience.

Goal 5: Application of Sociology: Find, evaluate, and communicate sociological information

     Student Learning Outcomes
        5.1 Demonstrate communication and data-gathering skills.

     Liberal Education Program Goals
        LEP 1: Communicate effectively.
        LEP 2: Be creative thinkers able to identify, formulate, and solve problems using interdisciplinary perspectives.
        LEP 3: Be critical thinkers who evaluate information wisely and examine how assumptions and positions are shaped