University of Northern Iowa
Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology
Bachelor of Arts: Sociology
Outcomes and Competencies
Prepared by the Sociology Faculty
Updated: January 8, 2009
Upon graduation from our program, a sociology major should achieve the following outcomes
and competencies:
Outcome 1:
Develop a sociological perspective.
Competency 1.1
Understand sociological concepts and principles and apply them to explain
specific examples of behavior and interaction.
Competency 1.2
Use a sociological lens to make sense of the world, one’s identities, and
one’s actions.
Outcome 2:
Understand the role of theory in sociology.
Competency 2.1
Define theory and describe its importance in building sociological
knowledge.
Competency 2.2
Identify major sociological theories and compare and contrast their key
concepts and assumptions.
Competency 2.3
Apply sociological theories to explain social phenomena.
Outcome 3:
Understand the nature and purpose of sociological methods.
Competency 3.1
Identify basic methods used in building sociological knowledge.
Competency 3.2
Design and evaluate a sociological research project.
Competency 3.3
Describe and apply the principles of ethical practice as a sociologist.
Outcome 4:
Engage in critical analysis.
Competency 4.1
Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to test hypotheses or address
research questions.
Competency 4.2
Identify and evaluate an argument based on its thesis, assumptions and
supporting evidence.
Competency 4.3
Outcome 5:
Make a sociological argument supported by evidence.
Increase awareness and participation in sociology on campus.
Competency 5.1
Become involved with the sociology club.
Competency 5.2
Learn about potential careers in sociology.
Competency 5.3
Attend faculty presentations and panels.
Competency 5.4
Meet regularly with sociology faculty mentor-advisor.