Bachelor of Sociology (BS)
School of Social and Human Studies
Atlantic International University
The Bachelor of Sociology (BS) program objective is to provide students with a broad understanding of the theories, methods, and related areas of the discipline through training in social theory, research skills, and specialized course work. The Bachelor of Sociology (BS) program is offered online via distance learning. After evaluating both academic record and life experience, AIU staff working in conjunction with Faculty and Academic Advisors will assist students in setting up a custom-made program, designed on an individual basis. This flexibility to meet student needs is seldom found in other distance learning programs. Our online program does not require all students to take the same subjects/courses, use the same books, or learning materials. Instead, the online Bachelor of Sociology (BS) curriculum is designed individually by the student and academic advisor. It specifically addresses strengths and weaknesses with respect to market opportunities in the student’s major and intended field of work. Understanding that industry and geographic factors should influence the content of the curriculum instead of a standardized one-fits-all design is the hallmark of AIU’s unique approach to adult education. This philosophy addresses the dynamic and constantly changing environment of working professionals by helping adult students in reaching their professional and personal goals within the scope of the degree program.
Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list as AIU programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at AIU? (Course and Curriculum)
Core Courses and Topics in Sociology:
Ethnic Relations: International Comparisons
Societal Change and Development
Environmental Sociology
City in a Global Society
Global Immigration and Immigrants
Global Sociology
Sociological Analysis
Classical Theories of Society
Contemporary Theories of Society
Introduction to Research Methods
Quantitative Analysis of Social Data
Sociological Field Methods
Social Inequality: Poverty Wealth, and Privilege
Comparative Race and Ethnicity in the US: Class Gender, and Nation
The Social Construction of Deviance and Conformity
Punishment and Social Control
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer Cultures and Society
Social Aspects of Human Sexuality
Gender and Society
Sociology of Popular Culture
Ethnic Relations: International Comparisons
Societal Change and Development
Environmental Sociology
City in a Global Society
Global Immigration and Immigrants
Global Sociology
Orientation Courses:
Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
Organization Theory (Portfolio)
Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)
Research Project in Journalism:
Bachelor Thesis Project
MBM300 Thesis Proposal
MBM302 Bachelor Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication: Each Bachelor of Sociology graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.
Career Center: Sociology Graduates
Job Description
Sociology is the study of social life and focuses on the interaction between human groups and institutions and their influences on each other. Sociology ranges from the study of relationships in family units in the most primitive cultures to the research of large bureaucratic institutions in major industrialized nations. Among the specialties within sociology are criminology, demography, cultural traditions, family relations, gerontology, social welfare, race relations, social status, and social change. Sociology majors find jobs in social service agencies, non-profit organizations, government agencies, educational institutions, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and correctional institutions. They also find jobs in business and industry in market research, public relations, customer service, management, advertising, human resources, and sales.
Skills for Success
Objectivity
Sensitivity to an interest in social issues
Good oral and written communication skills
Aptitude for research
Employment Opportunities
Advertising Manager
Admissions Counselor
Career Counselor
Child Welfare Worker
Customer Service Director
Gerontologist
Guidance Counselor
Hospital Administrator
Labor Relations Specialist
Market Research Analyst
Marriage Counselor
Mental Health Worker
Nursing Home Administrator
Resources and Tools
American Sociological Association
International Sociological Association
