Sociology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at the University of Colorado Denver offers students a comprehensive exploration of social behavior, societal structures, and cultural diversity. This program is designed to provide a solid foundation in sociological theories, research methods, and critical thinking skills necessary for understanding the complex social issues faced by communities today. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including social inequality, urbanization, race and ethnicity, gender, health, and deviance, equipping them to analyze social phenomena and contribute to positive societal change. The curriculum combines foundational courses with specialized electives, allowing students to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Practical experience is emphasized through opportunities such as internships, research projects, and community engagement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in social services, public policy, community development, and further academic pursuits. The program fosters an inclusive and dynamic learning environment where students develop critical inquiry skills, ethical reasoning, and cultural competency. Faculty members are dedicated to student success and bring a wealth of research and professional experience, mentoring students as they develop their understanding of social systems and issues. Graduates of the Sociology program at CU Denver are equipped to analyze social patterns, advocate for marginalized populations, and implement strategies for social improvement in diverse settings. The program also provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing graduate studies in sociology, social work, law, or related fields. With access to Denver’s vibrant urban setting, students benefit from real-world learning opportunities and connections with local organizations working toward social justice and community well-being. This program aims to produce informed, socially responsible citizens committed to making a meaningful difference in the world.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology requires a total of 120 credits, including 32 credits earned in sociology. In addition to required sociology courses, CU Denver has a set of core university requirements for all undergraduates. These include courses in the humanities, social sciences, behavioral sciences, and natural/physical sciences. CU Denver also requires that students demonstrate competency in mathematics and writing, either through testing or coursework. 

Major Requirements

SOCY 1001 - Introduction to Sociology (3 credits)

SOCY 2001 - Inequalities in the Social World (3 credits)
SOCY 3119 - Qualitative Methods (4 credits)
SOCY 3115 - Quantitative Methods & Analysis (4 credits)

Elective Courses

Students also choose a minimum of 12 credits of elective courses from the sociology department. 

SOCY 3140 - Sociological Theory (3 credits)
SOCY 4830 - Senior Capstone: Worklife Practices & Policies (3 credits)

Freshman admission consideration for both in-state and out-of-state students is based primarily upon:

1. Quality and number of high school courses (units) attempted (a rigorous academic program of study is preferred)
2. The admission index, which is a numeric score calculated by the Colorado Department of Higher Education based on GPA or rank in class and ACT or SAT test scores.
3. Optional personal essay and letters of recommendation. Though not required, a personal statement or essay and/or letters of recommendation may be considered in the admissions review process

General Admission

You are a strong candidate for general admission if:

1. Your index is 93 or higher
2. You have completed all HEAR requirements AND have no more than two MAPS unit deficiencies

TEST SCORES: ACT/SAT

Results are mandatory for international students who have graduated from a U.S. high school or those seeking freshman admission directly to the College of Engineering and Applied Science programs. For engineering students, admission to CU Denver is still possible without these scores by way of the Pre-Engineering program in the College of Liberal Arts and Science.

TEST SCORES: TOEFL, IELTS, OR PTE

Applicants will be considered to have obtained the required English language proficiency if they meet satisfactory scores (below) or one of the additional options:

SCORE REQUIREMENTS:

TOEFL

Minimum TOEFL Score Accepted: 75 IBT / 537 PBT

IELTS

Minimum IELTS Score Accepted: 6.5

The TOEFL/IELTS requirement can be waived if an applicant has graduated from the ESL Academy. Information regarding other considerations for exemption, including country of citizenship/origin, and special circumstances can be found here. Please note that some graduate level programs will require a higher score on the TOEFL/IELTS and applicants should consult the department for additional details

PTE ACADEMIC

Minimum PTE Academic Score Accepted: 51

TThe Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic) is currently in a pilot review at the University of Colorado Denver. We will accept a 51 PTE Academic score with the following subscores:

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) invites undergraduate and graduate students to apply for available scholarships every spring semester, beginning in February. The scholarships are merit and need based, ranging from $300 - $1000.

Featured Scholarships

• Melvin Albaum (Continuing Undergraduates, Need Based)
• Phyllis Weisheit Schultz (Continuing Undergraduates, Merit Based)
• Joseph Ben Trujillo (All students, Need Based)

National Scholarship Programs

You must be nominated and supported through the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences for applications to national scholarship programs. 

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at the University of Colorado Denver offers students a comprehensive understanding of social behavior, societal structures, and cultural dynamics. This program is designed to equip students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep comprehension of social issues such as inequality, race, gender, and urban development. The curriculum includes foundational courses in sociology theories, research methods, and statistics, enabling students to conduct empirical research and analyze social phenomena effectively. Students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as criminology, social inequality, community development, and urban sociology, tailoring their education to their career interests. The program emphasizes experiential learning through internships, service learning projects, and community engagement, fostering practical skills and real-world experience. Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse career paths including social services, urban planning, policy analysis, research, and further graduate study. The faculty comprises experienced scholars dedicated to mentoring students and advancing knowledge through research. The university's location in Denver provides a vibrant urban environment for fieldwork and internships across various social agencies and organizations. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized advising, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. The Sociology program at the University of Colorado Denver aims to develop well-rounded individuals who can critically assess social issues and contribute positively to society through informed and ethical practices.