Sociology, BA
California Baptist University’s sociology bachelor's program challenges students’ perspective of the world and the many people groups in it, helping them look more objectively at other societies and our own.
Program Intro
The many issues confronting society today make sociology all the more relevant. California Baptist University’s sociology program provides the core foundation for understanding society’s structure and its patterns, group dynamics, social inequality and social diversity.
Why Study Sociology at CBU?
Take relevant and interesting courses
We keep the sociology program current by offering distinctive elective courses. The creation of our new international practicum course adds a global opportunity for students to experience cultural differences and apply academic concepts. CBU is also unique in that it does not avoid challenging topics but helps students think critically about issues from a Christian perspective.
Get hands-on experience
Our faculty provide opportunities for students to be involved in research, community service and internships as a means of preparation for the diverse work world. A number of service teams have traveled abroad to countries like Greece, Malawi, Jordan, France and the Philippines. Additionally, many of our students have served at local soup kitchens, homeless shelters and youth transitional homes, and have interned at such places as Operation Safe House, Women Wonder Writers and Jill’s House.
What You'll Learn
Students in CBU's sociology program will learn to:
- Explain the classical, contemporary, gender and postmodern theoretical frameworks
and core concepts of sociology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of multiple key substantive areas within the field of sociology including marriage and family, social problems, deviant behavior, and group dynamics
- Demonstrate intercultural knowledge and competence including cultural self-awareness,
cultural difference, and respectful communication in cross-cultural settings
- Express the concepts and theories in sociology using excellent written and editing
skills following style and guideline requirements; combining and synthesizing thoughts
and ideas with clarity and fluency.
- Express the concepts and theories in sociology using oral presentation skills with
clarity, professional demeanor and dress, combining and synthesizing existing ideas
to formulate convincing ideas and/or arguments.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the ethical issues in a variety of social contexts including
a Biblical worldview.
- Evaluate several research methodologies including both qualitative and quantitative research designs, the different types of data collection and analysis.
Program Details
SOC 323: Marriage and the Family
The course discusses dating, mate selection, the experience of marriage, marital challenges, and diversity in family forms.
SOC 305: Social Problems
A study of the nature and meaning of social problems and deviant behavior in American Society.
SOC 347: Sociology of Gender
From the perspective of personal identity, we will ask how it is that we experience ourselves as male and female.
- Cultural Sociology Concentration
- Forensic Psychology Concentration (Additional, Optional)
- Industrial and Organizational Psychology Concentration (Additional, Optional)
- Life Span Development Concentration (Additional, Optional)
- Medical Anthropology Concentration (Additional, Optional)
- Sports Psychology Concentration (Additional, Optional)
Douglas Wallace, PhD
Professor of Sociology
Associate Dean, Division of Family and Culture, College of Behavioral and Social Sciences
Office Phone: 951-552-8722
E-mail: dwallace@calbaptist.edu
Office Location: W.E. James Building, Room 117
Each professor that I have had for my sociology classes was interested in not only my academic success, but my personal and spiritual life. They challenged my perspective of the world and the many people groups in it.
Cherisse Grow '16
I chose sociology to fulfill my desire to learn more about social human behaviors. I hope to counsel and work with youth in some capacity in the future.
Crystal Castro '18
I chose sociology because I have a passion for foster children and I love studying interactions and behaviors of people. I plan to get my master's in social work and pursue a career in child services.
Mikayla Bowers '19
Career Possibilities
Upon completing CBU’s undergraduate sociology program, students will be well prepared for careers in a variety of fields. Some careers listed below may require further education.
- Counselor
- Corrections Officer
- Social Worker
- Researcher
- Teacher
- Ministry Worker
- Human Resources Manager
Related Programs
Next Steps
Join our community. At CBU, you’ll be challenged to become an individual whose skills, integrity, and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish you in the world.