Sociology at Aquinas College

Department Mission

Sociology is the scientific study of human behavior and social life. A fundamental insight of sociology is that institutions, groups, and interpersonal interactions shape lived experiences and life chances. Sociologists explore areas such as social change, social work, community leadership, human services, the environment, health, and various types of social inequality. The department of sociology incorporates an engaged, community-based curriculum that expands beyond the boundaries of the classroom, exposing students to experiences and opportunities in Grand Rapids, MI as part of their coursework. The goal of the program is to provide students with a complex understanding of persistent social problems—to which they will apply their knowledge in the pursuit of positive solutions and the advancement of the common good.

Learning Outcomes

1. Students will be able to define and apply core sociological concepts such as race, gender, class, culture, norms, agency, structure, socialization, and stratification to contemporary social issues.
2. Students will utilize engaged community-based experiences and opportunities to study, critique, and improve their society.
3. Students will understand the value, construction, and application of sociological theory.
4. Students will become proficient in locating, assessing, creating and presenting empirical research.