Concentrations
The sociology department offers two areas of concentration for majors. Each concentration builds on core elements of the major. A concentration is not required for the major. For those interested, a concentration provides a guide for students seeking to specialize in a designated area, while also signaling their expertise to potential employers and graduate schools. The concentration will be noted on a student’s transcript.
Download the Sociology Major and Concentration Information sheet.
Research Methods and Data Analysis Concentration (RMDA)
The RMDA concentration covers various research methods, including qualitative, quantitative, community-engaged research, and demonstrated data analysis via coursework and thesis. Ideal for students interested in graduate-level study of data analysis, applied and evaluation research, epidemiology, careers in government, program evaluation, public opinion polling, and non-profit organizations.
Requirements for RMDA Concentration
- SO401 AND SO402 (both must be taken for concentration)
- SO328: Community-Based Research
- SO450: Thesis MUST use at least one research method informed by coursework
- One additional methods course; consult Gail Murphy-Geiss to discuss/determine course options
Health and Society Concentration
The Health & Society concentration includes research methodologies and theories of medical sociology, institutional structures, laws, and policies impacting health, and broader systems of inequality resulting in unequal rates of illness and access to care. Ideal for students interested in graduate-level social research on health, medicine, and epidemiology, careers in public health, healthcare services, medicine, and health-related non-profit organizations.
Requirements for Health & Society Concentration
SO450: Senior thesis MUST focus on a topic related to the concentration. An advisor-approved community engagement project or internship is required.
At least three courses from the following:
- SO246: Sociology of Health and Medicine SO250: Global Health
- SO320: Mental Health Policy
- SO292: Sociology of Body & Health
- SO290: Data Visualization for Social Epidemiology
Contact Professor Wade Roberts (wroberts@coloradocollege.edu) with questions about the Health & Society concentration.