Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes for M.A. Sociology

• Learning Goal A: To understand, critique, and be able to note research applications of insights from the classical sociological theories of Marx, Weber, and Durkheim, as well as select perspectives in contemporary sociological theory.
  • SLO A1: Students will be able to explain the major themes of a Marxian, Weberian, and Durkheimian perspective on the social world.
  • SLO A2: Students will be able to explain and critique at least two theoretical perspective that are part of contemporary sociological theory.
  • SLO A3: Students will be able to derive a research hypothesis from a theoretical perspective that may be applicable to an area of their own interest. They will also be able to provide a brief description of a possible research project that investigates the hypothesis.

• Learning Goal B: To understand the nature of sociological research methods, and how they may be used in examining sociological issues.
  • SLO B1: Students will be able to explain how a research topic important to them may be investigated using a particular research design, mode of data collection, and mode of data analysis.

• Learning Goal C: To understand how some contemporary statistical procedures may be used to examine research issues in contemporary sociology.
  • SLO C1: Students will be able to write a professional, empirical research paper that uses univariate and regression-based multivariate techniques to conduct an original data analysis.

Learning Goals and Student Learning Outcomes for Ph.D. Sociology

• Learning Goal A: Develop the knowledge and skills appropriate for a specialist in a sub-discipline of sociology.
  • SLO A1: Students will be able to explain, critique, and discuss research applications of the major theoretical perspectives within two sub-disciplines of sociology.

• Learning Goal B: Develop the skills of a professional research sociologist.
  • SLO B1: Students will be able to organize and carry out a substantial social science research project and write a professional report of its results.

  • SLO B2: Students will be able to build a professional identity through the presentation of their research in academic venues and the publication of their work in peer reviewed presses and journals.