Sociology, BS

The Sociology major offers two degree programs: a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science. Both degrees prepare students for a variety of professional careers related to human resources, management, public relations, social services, criminal justice, health services, social research, and other people-oriented positions in the public and private sector. In addition, the Bachelor’s degree provides excellent preparation for graduate training in sociology, anthropology, social services, law, and business. Both degrees require a total of 121 semester hours, including 36 credit hours in sociology and/or anthropology, as identified below. Courses used to fulfill General Education Requirements may be used to fulfill minor requirements.

Change of Major into Sociology

Students who change majors into Sociology must have completed at least 12 credit hours at Clemson and must have a 2.0 minimum Clemson/Bridge cumulative grade-point average.

Emphasis Areas in Sociology

Students select one of the following Emphasis Areas:

• Community Studies: RS 4590 , SOC 3310  and SOC 4950 ; and six additional credits selected from all courses offered in anthropology or sociology not already taken to fulfill requirements.
   
• Criminal Justice: JUST 2880  and JUST 2890 ; and nine additional credits selected from ANTH 3530 , JUST 3980 , JUST 4680 , JUST 4910 , JUST 4930 , JUST 4940 , SOC 3910 , SOC 3920 , SOC 3970  or SOC 4860 . No more than three credits of SOC 4860  may be taken to satisfy concentration electives.
   
• General Sociology: Three credits selected from SOC 3110 , SOC 3300 , SOC 4320  or SOC 4440 ; three credits selected from SOC 3500 , SOC 3510 , SOC 3910 , SOC 4030  or SOC 4330 ; and nine credits selected from any courses offered in anthropology or sociology not already taken to fulfill requirements.
   
• Social Services: SOC 3800 , SOC 4140  and SOC 4950 ; and six additional credits selected from all courses offered in anthropology or sociology not already taken to fulfill requirements.

At least 12 of the total credits must be from 4000-level sociology, rural sociology, and/or anthropology courses; no more than nine credit hours may be taken in courses at the 1000 or 2000 level, except with approval of the department chair. Additional electives are added to meet the minimum of 121 hours required for graduation.