BA in Sociology - Critical Race Studies in San Marcos United States | California State University San Marcos

Sociology examines human societies, their institutions, organizations, and groups, along with the interactions between individuals and collectives. The field provides comparative, international, and cultural perspectives across its coursework. This knowledge proves essential for addressing modern social issues, making it particularly valuable for careers in human services, research, nonprofits, and government sectors focused on these challenges.

To explore sociology's vast scope, students must master three core elements: factual knowledge (what we know), research methods (how we know), and theoretical frameworks (how we explain). Sociology majors develop proficiency in all these areas while cultivating critical thinking skills to examine the root causes of social issues and potential policy solutions. Students can specialize in specific sociological concentrations like healthcare, education, social welfare, aging studies, critical race theory, or family and youth studies.
Student Learning Objectives
Our program's central goal is equipping students with the understanding and analytical tools to navigate our complex social world. We prepare graduates to apply sociological principles and research methods to enhance societal conditions. Those earning a California State University San Marcos sociology degree will demonstrate the ability to tackle social issues through rigorous research, thoughtful analysis, and practical solutions. Our curriculum develops the theoretical, methodological, and advocacy competencies needed to achieve these objectives. The following outcomes outline the key knowledge and abilities our sociology graduates will acquire.

Graduates with a Sociology B.A. will demonstrate the capacity to:

Evaluate diverse social experiences through a sociological lens, particularly regarding race, class, gender, age, sexuality, religion, and nationality.
Compare theoretical explanations of societal issues affecting various populations, identify structural causes of these problems, and develop/evaluate potential solutions, policy measures, or advocacy strategies.
Effectively research, evaluate, and communicate sociological findings.
Select and justify appropriate research methodologies—both quantitative and qualitative—for specific research questions, theoretical frameworks, and social settings.
Recognize and discuss the ethical considerations and social justice implications inherent in sociological research.