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For Current Students

by | Sep 7, 2023

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Sociology Dept. Student Learning Goals

  1. Sociological Imagination: Students will be able to define the sociological imagination and identify examples of it. Advanced students will be able to apply the concept of the sociological imagination to multiple facets of human life.
  2. Inequalities: Students will be able to identify sources and forms of inequality in society (e.g., race, class and gender). They will be able to define what sociologists mean when they argue these concepts are socially constructed.   Advanced students will be able to identify sources and forms of inequality in society (e.g., race, class and gender) and will be able to define and explain how inequalities are socially constructed. They will also be able to define and explain intersectionality and identify how forms of inequality (class, gender, ethnicity/race, sexual orientation, age) intersect.
  3. Research Methods: Students will be able to define the scientific method, distinguish the strengths and weaknesses of various research methods and interpret data. More advanced students will be able to write a convincing defense of the research methodology chosen to answer a sociological question.
  4. Theory: Students will be able to define basic sociological theories including conflict theory, functionalism and interactionist theories. They will be able to identify examples of each. More advanced students will be able to apply a sociological theory to a social issue.

 

Letters of Recommendation

The Sociology Department wants to help you complete applications for graduate school in a timely and efficient manner. We consider writing letters of recommendation to be a significant part of our commitment to support your career and academic goals. Many students ask us to write letters of recommendation around the same time of year, making it difficult to complete at the last minute. We want to write a detailed and informative letter tailored to your individual strengths and the academic program and/or degree. To do this we ask you to organize all of the materials in the attached form. Also, we require several weeks notice prior to the due date.

Here Are a Couple of Suggestions:

• Discuss the letter of recommendation with the professor at least 3-4 weeks prior to the due date. Send a follow-up e-mail 1 week prior to the due date. Visit during office hours to discuss your plans for graduate study.
• Include information in the form below that distinguishes your qualities.
• Attach your resume and/or personal statement. Only include the final version of personal statements.
• Include or mention any papers or exams that define your interests or exemplify your abilities.
• Request letters of recommendation for all the school you are applying to at the same time.
• Send all of the material in one e-mail or print it out and put in a folder.