* On completion of the major in sociology, students are expected to have developed:
* knowledge of the major sociological theories and the assumptions each makes about the nature of society and human nature;
* the ability to identify the theoretical frameworks of a piece of sociological work by means of its concepts, the questions it asks about social phenomena, the research techniques used and the conclusions it reaches;
* a basic understanding of the research techniques used in social science research, including statistical techniques and the use of computer software for data analysis where appropriate;
* the ability to select appropriate theories to formulate questions about social phenomena, analyse and interpret data and form conclusions;
* the ability to select, organise and present information and soundly based argument in written and verbal form, according to the needs of the audience;
* the ability to utilise their knowledge and understanding of sociological theories and research methods to enable them to continue the process of inquiry and to contribute to practical and policy issues in their employment and social life.
The course
Sociology is the study of people and the relationships they enter into as members of various social institutions. Sociologists study a wide range of social issues that are important in contemporary Australian society. The sociology major offers subjects which draw upon important areas of sociological endeavour.
In addition to standing as a major area of study in the Bachelor of Arts, sociology is an important supporting discipline in other courses. Sociology subjects form an integral part of the welfare and nursing courses and may be taken as an appropriate component in the preparation of both primary and secondary teachers in the School of Education. Sociology subjects may also be taken by students enrolled in courses in the schools of Applied Science, Business and Visual Arts.
The sociology major is designed to meet a range of student needs. Some students want only a basic introduction to sociology and the first-level subjects are designed to meet this need. Other students want to study a number of substantive areas related to their vocational interest and they may select from the range of upper-level subjects offered. Students who want to obtain a specialist qualification in sociology complete the full major.
The two introductory subjects in sociology are taken as a first-level humanities and social science sequence. The substantive subjects selected are taken at second and third level. The compulsory subject in sociological theory and method is a third-level subject and may only be taken after completing the two introductory sociology subjects and two substantive sociology subjects. It is highly recommended that students complete the two social research subjects (GSC2602 and GSC2601) before taking GSC3201 (Sociological theory and method).
An honours program is being introduced. Subject details will be found in the section on the fourth-year honours program.
Sociology subjects are designed to prepare graduates for a range of occupations where sociological skills are relevant to employment. These include administration, planning, social research, health, welfare, community services and equal opportunity.
Subjects offered
First level
* GSC1201 Introduction to sociology A
* GSC1202 Introduction to sociology B
Upper level
* GSC2201 Sociology of the family and generation
* GSC2202 Sociology of race and ethnic relations
* GSC2203 Sociology of children
* GSC2204 Work and technology
* GSC2205 Sociology of deviance
* GSC2206 Sociology of health
* GSC2207 Women's sociology
* GSC2209 Environmental sociology*
* GSC3201 Sociological theory and method
* Subject to approval
Fourth level
* GSC4211 Theory and practice in sociology
* GSC4221 Contemporary sociological issues
* GSC4000(S) Dissertation