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Why choose Sociology at PCC?
Additional information
Do you ever wonder why people behave the way they do or why social problems exist? Are you curious about how and why social class, race, and gender can shape our lives? How about why so many people are living on the streets or protesting in the streets? Or why has dating moved online or college tuition has gone up so much?
Sociology offers us critical tools for asking deeper questions about our societies and ourselves.
PCC’s Sociology courses are taught in small classes by teachers who are dedicated to your learning success. Across diverse experiences and perspectives, we help students learn how to study social behavior in their own social groups and lives, as well as how societies are organized across institutions and around the world. By exploring social patterns and unpacking social changes, we empower students to discover the world around them and how they can make a difference.
Check out our Sociology at PCC Video to meet some of our instructors and learn more.
Degrees and certificates
PCC offers classes in this program but not a degree. These classes can be used as electives and as part of the following university transfer plans:
| Award | Length (attending full-time) | Financial aid eligible | Currently accepting students? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer | 2 years | ||
| Associate of General Studies | 2 years | ||
| Associate of Science | 2 years |
Locations
Cascade
Rock Creek
Southeast
SylvaniaWhat will you learn?
Class information
Sociology helps us understand how our lives are connected to each other and the larger society. The sociological perspective shows us how personal experiences, including our “personal troubles”, are tied to social forces beyond ourselves through the power of social contexts, with varying structures, cultures, and groups shaping our opportunities, identities, attitudes, and behaviors.
Come join us to learn:
- Dynamic relationships between self and society
- What it means to consider the “big picture”
- How to think critically and ask deep questions that deconstruct social contexts
- The influences of social forces in our lives
- Patterns that emerge in interpersonal interactions
- How to analyze systems, power, and social inequality
- Root causes and solutions for problems
- Ways to engage in your community
Want to deepen your knowledge?
- Explore the different core and specialty courses that we offer.
- Meet prerequisites for many programs.
- Consider applying your Sociology classes to a PCC focus awards (from Health Studies or Sustainability to Social Justice or Women’s and Gender Studies).
- Expand your professional knowledge by participating in Community-Based Learning or earning credits with internships through our SOC 280 Cooperative Education courses.
What will you do?
Sociology opens doors to diverse specialties and employment, including:
- AI and Technology
- Business and Marketing
- Community Organizing
- Counseling
- Criminal Justice and Law
- Education
- Environmental activism
- Healthcare Professions
- Human Resources and Management
- Labor/Union Organizing
- Non-Profit Management
- Politics and Political Strategy
- Public Health
- Public Opinion Polling
- Public Policy and Government
- Research
- Social Media & Public Relations
- Social Services & Social Work
- Urban Studies
- Writing, Editing & Publishing
Next steps
Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes.Apply now
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