Caution
Copyright © Monash University 1996
ISBN 1320-6222
Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
+ 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.
In addition to standing as a major area of study in the Bachelor of Arts (Humanities and Social Sciences), 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.
To meet the requirements of a major in sociology, students should complete twelve points at first level, sixteen points at second level, and a further eight points at second or third level. A minor in sociology should include either two subjects at first level and two subjects at second level, or two subjects at second level and two subjects at third level. 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 (GSC1601 and GSC1602) before taking GSC3201 (Sociological theory and method). An additional subject at third level is being developed and will be proposed for introduction in 1997.
An honours program has been introduced. Subject details are 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.
+ GSC1202 Introduction to sociology B
+ GSC2202 Sociology of race and ethnic relations
+ GSC2203 Sociology of children
+ GSC2204 Work and technology
+ GSC2205 Sociology of deviance (next offered 1997)
+ GSC2206 Sociology of health (next offered 1997)
+ GSC2207 Women's sociology
+ GSC2209 Environmental sociology
+ GSC4221 Contemporary sociological issues
+ GSC4000(S) Dissertation