mission

The mission of the Department of Sociology at Texas Southern University is to become a nationally recognized leader in the Urban Sociological training of students who will enter graduate/professional school or career-oriented professions. Students are trained with a special emphasis on sociological theory, methodology, and the substantive areas of social inequality and urban sociology. The major in Sociology will demonstrate how this discipline advances scientific knowledge, show an understanding of sociological theory and methodology, and demonstrate how to successfully complete a scientific research project. Within the curriculum students will be challenged to develop their critical thinking skills, utilize technology in the acquisition and analysis of data, and participate in service learning activities in the Houston metropolitan community.
Upon completing this program, the Sociology major will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the following:

1. The discipline of Sociology and its role in contributing to our understanding of social reality, such that the student will be able to: (a) describe how Sociology differs from and is similar to other social sciences; (b) describe how Sociology contributes to a liberal arts understanding of social reality; and (c) apply the sociological imagination, principles, and concepts to his/her own life.
   
   
2. The role of theory in Sociology, such that the student will be able to: (a) define theory and describe its role in building sociological knowledge; (b) compare and contrast basic theoretical orientations; (c) show how theories reflect the historical context of times and cultures in which they were developed; and (d) describe and apply basic theories or theoretical orientations in at least one area of social reality.
   
   
3. The role of evidence and qualitative and quantitative methods in Sociology, such that the student will be able to: (a) identify basic methodological approaches and describe the general role of methods in building sociological knowledge; (b) compare and contrast the basic methodological approaches for gathering data; (c) design a research study and explain why various decisions are made; and (d) critically assess a published research report and explain how the study could have been improved.
   
   
4. The technical skills involved in retrieving information and data from the Internet and using computers appropriately for data analysis. The Sociology major should also be able to do (social) scientific technical writing that accurately conveys data findings and to show an understanding and application of principles of ethical practice as a sociologist.
   
   
5. In-depth knowledge of at least two specialty areas within Sociology, such that the student will be able to: (a) summarize basic questions and issues in the areas; (b) compare and contrast basic theoretical orientations and middle-range theories in the areas; (c) show how Sociology helps the understanding of the area; (d) summarize content research in the area; and (e) develop specific policy implications of research and theories in the areas.

Grades of "C" or better are required in all courses dedicated to either the major or the minor program. No course offered through the Department can be used to satisfy both a core curriculum requirement and a major requirement for graduation. To be eligible for graduation as English majors, students must follow a program of specific course requirements as well as complete an exit examination.