Bachelor of Social Sciences (Hons.) in Sociology 2008-09

Sociologists are concerned with investigating the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how these various structures influence human behaviour. Because all human behaviour is social, the subject matter of sociology can range from family life to mob behaviour, from religious cults to organized crime, from work to leisure, and from the study of social divisions created by racial prejudice to shared beliefs that form the basis for a common culture. As a result, the perspectives and research techniques used by sociologists are sufficiently wide-ranging that they can be applied to almost any area of social life. Many of the themes and issues that interest sociologists overlap with those discussed by anthropologists, psychologists, philosophers, historians and economists.

The courses in the Department are designed so as to provide students with a solid grounding in basic sociological theory, research methods, and a variety of topics of interest to sociologists. Teaching proceeds along three lines, namely, along theoretical, methodological, and substantive lines. These three lines are equally emphasized, and within each critical analysis and application of existing knowledge are emphasized. The courses in each line are classified into compulsory and elective subjects.

Because sociology is concerned with some of the most challenging issues of our time, it is an expanding field of study whose potential is increasingly being recognized by those who are responsible for the formation of social policy and the creation of social intervention programmes. Students who successfully complete the degree programme are intellectually prepared to go on to pursue further studies at a post-graduate level, or enter into careers in a wide variety of areas, especially those dealing with people.

To foster critical and creative thinking as well as aid students in developing their oral and written communications skills in both Chinese and English.

To provide students with the scientific techniques necessary for the study of groups and the social institutions surrounding them, with special emphasis being placed on Chinese culture and society.

To introduce students to a broad spectrum of sociological knowledge, including its perspective, history, theories, and applications.

Programme Structure

Sociology is a broad-based discipline which provides students with the knowledge and learning experience necessary to meet most employment requirements and challenges. Graduates of the Sociology programme have found employment in a wide variety of positions. A recent review of the employment status of our graduates found that most found employment in government or the private sector within four months after their graduation in June.

1. Customer services and sales;

2. Welfare and Social Services;

3. Education;

Further studies in sociology in tertiary institutions both locally and overseas are also possible.