Programs

Undergraduate Programs

Bachelor of Arts: Sociology Concentration (3-Year)

Number of credits required from Athabasca University: 30 credits.

Maximum credit awarded in this program for prior learning through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) processes: 6 credits.

Program Learning Outcomes

As a result of completing this program, students should be able to

demonstrate knowledge and skills related to the study of the structures and functions of social institutions.
exhibit familiarity with the key concepts of sociology and the main substantive areas of sociological research.
demonstrate a comprehension of the links between the social, economic, political, cultural and ecological aspects of our everyday worlds in a changing global society.

Program Goals

The general program goals are to

make accessible to beginning students and professionals in Canada a globally accessible, high quality academic program.
enable students and professionals to use a sociological imagination to analyze and understand their own life experiences.
provide students the skills and resources to develop a greater appreciation and understanding of other — non-western, non-capitalist — world views and social practices.
introduce students to the historical legacy of social thought and social research.
equip students with the conceptual and methodological skills to enter public sector employment.

Possible Career Options

Social Researcher
Journalist
Human Services Worker
Early Childhood Development
Correctional Officer (Guards, Parole, Probationary Officers)
Counsellors
Therapist
Policy Researcher
Teacher
Special Needs
Caregiver
Community Organizer
Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Worker
Industrial Relations Officer
English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher

Note: If you are looking to become a register Social Worker, a Bachelor of Social Work is usually required. For more information, please read "How to Become a Social Worker".

Possible Further Education Options

At Athabasca University

The following further education options may require some sociology courses.

Disciplinary Studies

sociology
educational studies
political economy
history
philosophy

Interdisciplinary Studies

environmental studies
labour studies
multicultural studies
diaspora studies
post-colonial studies
women’s studies
media studies
global studies
peace and conflict
communication studies
gender studies
gerontology
religious studies

Professional Studies

journalism
social work
law enforcement
nursing
other human services studies

General Interest Student

pop culture
current affairs
social issues

* Some universities will not accept a three-year degree for admittance into a graduate program. An additional year of study may be required. It is the students’ responsibility to research the entrance requirements of other universities.

Updated March 25, 2009