Sociology

The Sociology program at Bakersfield College provides students with a comprehensive understanding of social structures, relationships, and institutions. Students learn about topics such as race, class, gender, inequality, and social change. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and effective communication. Graduates of the program will be prepared for a range of career paths, including law, social work, human services, urban development, law enforcement agencies, public service, counseling, mental health, teaching, and community service, or for transferring to a four-year institution to continue their education in sociology or related fields.

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the scientific study of society, human social behavior, and the relationships between individuals and groups. It seeks to understand how society works and how individuals and groups interact with each other. Sociologists study a wide range of topics, including social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, family, religion, politics, culture, and globalization. They use a variety of research methods, such as surveys, interviews, participant observation, and statistical analysis, to gather data and draw conclusions about social phenomena. The goal of sociology is to deepen our understanding of the social world and to use this knowledge to address social problems and improve people's lives.

Is Sociology Right for Me?

Studying sociology benefits anyone who is interested in understanding human behavior and social interactions. This program is particularly suitable you if you are interested in pursuing careers that involve working with people, such as social work, counseling, education, law enforcement, or public policy. It is also ideal if you plan to transfer to a four-year institution to continue your education in sociology or related fields. You should have strong critical thinking, research, and communication skills, as well as an openness to diverse perspectives and a curiosity about the social world around you.

Some key traits and skills that would make you a good fit for studying sociology include:

• Curiosity
• Critical thinking
• Communication skills
• Empathy
• Analytical skills
• Research skills
• Open-mindedness
• Passion for social justice

Sociology Degree

Sociology Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer

The Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer is intended for those transfer-directed students who plan to complete an AA in Sociology because it guarantees admission to the CSU system (but not to a particular campus or major).

Paying For Education

You CAN Afford BC

Don’t let finances get in the way of your goals. Get help paying for college costs like tuition, books, or sometimes even the rent with a variety of financial aid options to help you reach your educational and career goals.

I Can Afford College

Careers in Sociology

There are a variety of careers you can pursue with a Sociology Associate in Arts Degree for Transfer, including:

• Social work assistant: Social work assistants help social workers to provide services to individuals and families in need. They may help clients to access resources such as food, housing, and healthcare, and may provide emotional support and counseling.
• Case manager: Case managers work with individuals or groups to coordinate services and resources to meet their needs. They may work in healthcare, social services, or other fields.
• Community outreach worker: Community outreach workers work to connect individuals and communities with resources and services that can improve their well-being. They may work with marginalized or underserved populations, such as immigrants or low-income families.
• Research assistant: Research assistants work with sociologists or other social scientists to conduct research studies. They may collect and analyze data, help to design research projects, and assist with writing reports or academic articles.
• Probation officer: Probation officers work with individuals who have been released from prison or jail, helping them to reintegrate into society and comply with the terms of their probation or parole.
• Human resources assistant: Human resources assistants help to manage employee relations within organizations. They may assist with recruiting, hiring, and training employees, and may handle administrative tasks such as benefits enrollment and payroll.
• Non-profit worker: Non-profit workers may work for organizations that address a variety of social issues, such as poverty, homelessness, or environmental sustainability. They may assist with fundraising, outreach, program development, or other aspects of non-profit work.

Beyond BC

Transfer to a University

Bakersfield College's Associate Degrees for Transfer (AA-T or AS-T) guarantee admission with junior standing to the CSU system with priority admission to your local CSU campus in a similar program. Consult a counselor and/or transfer specialist for details.

Transfer Pathways

Academic Department: Behavioral Sciences

Career & Learning Pathway: Social Behavioral Sciences (SBS) Pathway

Courses: Sociology (SOCI)