
About the Sociology Minor
A minor in Sociology gives students the ability to understand the complexities of today’s society by examining human behavior and social actions. In examining how social structures (such as work, the family, religion, etc.) help shape social rules, processes and agency, students gain a better understanding of the entirety of today's world — from poverty, gender, race and organizational behavior to politics. In studying these issues, students learn to use analytical reasoning and apply sociological theories to explain a wide range of social phenomena.
What are the benefits of earning a Sociology Minor?
A minor in sociology can help prepare you for a job in several fields of work, including:
- Education
- Counseling
- Human Resources
- Management
- Social Work
- Health Care
- Law
- Criminal Justice
- Non-Profit
How long does it take to complete?
You can complete the entire Sociology Minor in just two summers! Or you can take some courses in the summer and some during the regular year - it's up to YOU.
Coursework - How it works!
Summer Session Year 1
In the first summer you will take:
Session A - SOC 001 & SOC 015
Session C - One Upper-Division SOC Elective
Summer Session Year 2
In the second summer you will take:
Three Upper-Division SOC Electives
Declaring the Minor
You are encouraged to declare your minor as soon as possible. The general criteria for the minor declaration is available on the SSHA Advising website with links to the form you will need to submit.
If you have any questions regarding declaring the Sociology Minor, please email ssha.advising@ucmered.edu.
FAQ
What courses are planned to be offered in Summer Session?
SOC 001 and SOC 015 are planned to be offered every Summer Session. Additional upper-division Sociology courses will be offered but are to be determined. Sociology typically offers 4-5 different upper-division courses each summer and these are offered across Summer Sessions A and C, giving you a greater degree of flexibility.
Do you need any prerequisites before you begin the Sociology Minor during Summer Session?
No, neither SOC 001 nor SOC 015 have prerequisites to enroll. Most upper division Sociology coursework requires students have successfully completed SOC 001 or SOC 001 AND SOC 015.
Do you have to take all the classes during the summer?
No, students can take the courses at any time, but specific courses are guaranteed to be offered during Summer Session so students can complete the minor over two Summer Sessions.
Do you have to complete the minor if you start it?
No, it is entirely your decision.
How to Enroll
You can enroll directly into the courses through the UC Merced Schedule of Classes!


