SOCIOLOGY

The Sociology program prepares students for a major in sociology at four-year institutions. Two tracks are offered: Associate in Arts in Sociology (Sociology AA) and Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer (Sociology AA-T). The Sociology AA-T degree guarantees admission with junior status at a campus of the California State University (CSU) system in a similar major.

Sociology is the study of human social life focusing on the modern world. It places emphasis on the analyses of culture, social structure, and interaction processes. The Sociology program provides students with a core curriculum that will prepare them with the knowledge and skills required to succeed in the study of sociology. Students will develop skills for critical thinking, perceptive reading, and sociological analysis. A sociology background is useful for further education in the social sciences, law, education, medicine, and counseling. Career fields in which a sociology background is valuable include education (elementary to post-secondary), social services, journalism, public relations, business, and government.

The Associate Degree for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) is a special degree offered at California Community Colleges. Students who earn an AA-T or AS-T degree are guaranteed admission to a campus within the California State University (CSU) system, although not necessarily to a specific campus or major. Students who complete an AA-T or AS-T are given priority consideration when applying to a particular program that is similar to the student’s community college major and will be given a special GPA advantage when applying to CSU impacted campuses or majors. Students who are planning to pursue an AA-T or AS-T are strongly advised to meet with a counselor for additional information about this transfer program.

The Cuesta College AA-T/AS-T degree requires:

(1) Completion of 60 semester units that are eligible for transfer to the California State University, including both of the following: (A) California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC).

(B) A minimum of 18 semester units or 27 quarter units in a major or area of emphasis, as determined by the community college district.

(2) Obtainment of a minimum grade point average of 2.0.

(3) Earning a “C” or better grade in all courses required for the major or area of emphasis. A "P" (Pass) grade is an acceptable grade for courses in the major.

Learning Outcome(s):

1. Analyze the historical, political, cultural, and economic factors that shape contemporary social life
2. Understand and evaluate sociological theories
3. Understand the research methods used in sociology
4. Evaluate sociological data and research findings