Sociology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of human social behavior, social institutions, and the structures that influence society. This program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, research capabilities, and a broad perspective needed to navigate and address complex social issues. Throughout the program, students will explore a wide range of topics including social inequality, cultural diversity, family dynamics, urban development, and social change. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods, enabling students to analyze social phenomena effectively and develop evidence-based solutions.

Students are encouraged to engage in active learning through discussions, case studies, and research projects that foster a deeper understanding of societal trends and challenges. The program also promotes experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and community-based research, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program are well-prepared for careers in social services, community development, public policy, research organizations, and education. They also possess foundational skills for pursuing advanced studies in sociology or related disciplines.

With small class sizes and dedicated faculty, students receive personalized support and mentorship throughout their academic journey. The program's flexible structure enables students to tailor their courses toward specific interests within sociology, such as criminology, gender studies, or global social issues. By the end of their studies, students will be empowered to critically assess social phenomena, contribute to social betterment, and pursue professional opportunities in a variety of sectors dedicated to serving the community and addressing societal challenges.

Program Description

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University offers students a comprehensive understanding of social behavior, societal structures, and cultural dynamics. This program equips students with critical thinking skills and a thorough knowledge of social theories, research methodologies, and analysis techniques essential for examining the complexities of human society. Throughout the program, students explore diverse topics such as social inequality, urbanization, globalization, gender, race, and ethnicity, gaining insights into how social forces shape individual and collective experiences.

The curriculum combines foundational courses in sociology with specialized electives that allow students to tailor their education to specific interests or career goals. Students will engage in rigorous critical thinking exercises, participate in research projects, and develop practical skills through case studies and fieldwork opportunities. Faculty members bring a wealth of expertise, fostering an environment that encourages inquiry, debate, and applied learning.

The Sociology program prepares graduates for various career paths, including social research, community development, policy analysis, public service, and further academic study. Emphasis on ethical considerations and social responsibility ensures that students are not only well-versed in theoretical concepts but also aware of their role in fostering positive societal change. The interdisciplinary nature of the program also enables students to collaborate across disciplines, enhancing their versatility in a competitive job market.

Students are encouraged to participate in internships, volunteer work, and study abroad programs to gain practical experience and broaden their perspectives. The program’s flexible structure allows part-time and full-time study options to accommodate diverse student schedules. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology will be well-equipped with the analytical skills, cultural competence, and understanding of social processes necessary to succeed in a wide range of professional environments or pursue advanced degrees.

Overall, the Sociology program at Thompson Rivers University provides an engaging, dynamic, and critical approach to understanding the social world, preparing students to become informed, active citizens and effective professionals in a rapidly changing global society.

Program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University include the successful completion of a minimum of 120 credits, which typically spans four years of full-time study. Students are expected to fulfill both general university admission requirements and specific program prerequisites. Admission standards generally include a high school graduation or equivalent, with competitive GPA thresholds. Once admitted, students must complete foundational courses in social sciences, introductory sociology, and related disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, and political science. The curriculum emphasizes core sociology courses covering topics like social theory, research methods, social stratification, and cultural diversity. In addition to completing mandatory coursework, students are encouraged to engage in applied projects, internships, or research activities to enhance practical understanding of sociological concepts. Elective courses provide opportunities to explore specialized areas such as criminology, family studies, gender studies, and health sociology. To earn the degree, students must also fulfill university-wide graduation requirements, including writing a capstone paper or completing a thesis in the final year. The program may also require participation in seminars, workshops, or community outreach initiatives to foster experiential learning. Maintaining satisfactory academic progress (usually a minimum GPA of 2.0) is essential throughout the program. Graduation is contingent upon successfully passing all requisite courses and meeting the university’s residency requirements, which typically include completing a certain number of credits directly through Thompson Rivers University.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University offers a range of financing options to support students in their academic pursuits. Tuition fees vary depending on the student’s residency status, with domestic students enjoying lower rates compared to international students. For domestic students, the approximate annual tuition cost is around CAD 4,600, whereas international students can expect to pay approximately CAD 17,300 per year. In addition to tuition fees, students are responsible for ancillary costs such as student fees, textbooks, supplies, and living expenses. Financial aid options include government student loans, grants, and scholarships specifically available to TRU students. The Canadian federal and provincial governments provide loan programs designed to assist eligible students in covering their educational costs. These loans typically require students to demonstrate financial need and are repayable after graduation once the student is employed. Scholarships offered by Thompson Rivers University are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. International students have limited access to federal aid but may be eligible for institutional scholarships or bursaries. Work-study programs are available, enabling students to earn income while gaining valuable work experience related to their field of study. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external financial support through community organizations, private foundations, and various national scholarship programs. The university also provides financial counseling and planning services to assist students in managing their educational expenses effectively. For students from British Columbia, the British Columbia Student Assistance Program (BCSAP) offers additional funding options. Overall, financing a Sociology degree at TRU involves a combination of personal savings, loans, scholarships, and work opportunities, with the university committed to helping students access the necessary resources to complete their education.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University offers students an in-depth understanding of social behavior, social institutions, and the various factors that influence societal development. The program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and a comprehensive understanding of social structures and cultural diversity. Students explore a wide range of topics including social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, family dynamics, urbanization, and globalization. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling graduates to analyze social issues effectively and develop innovative solutions. Courses may include introductory sociology, social research methods, social theory, and specialized topics such as youth studies, social policy, and deviance. Students are encouraged to participate in community projects and internships to gain real-world experience and foster a deeper engagement with societal challenges. The program prepares graduates for careers in social services, community development, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and further academic pursuits in graduate studies. The faculty comprises experienced scholars committed to providing high-quality education and mentorship. The program emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness, ethical research practices, and critical inquiry, fostering graduates who are socially responsible and informed citizens. The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Thompson Rivers University is suitable for students interested in understanding the complexities of human societies and contributing to positive social change.