Course Description
Application of sociological theory and research to public and private sector enterprises. Emphasis on observation and analysis of sociological issues that serve as the foundation for an original research paper. Students are responsible for identifying the internship setting and having it approved by the Sociology Undergraduate Coordinator.
Athena Title
Internship Experience
Non-Traditional Format
This course will require regular meetings with a faculty member to plan out the experience, monitor and facilitate progress, and then frame an original research paper inspired by the internship experience.
Prerequisite
(SOCI 1101 or SOCI 1101H or SOCI 2600) and permission of department
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall, spring and summer
Grading System
S/U (Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory)
Course Objectives
The aim of the internship experience is twofold. First, the internship will give students an opportunity to gain first-hand experience in a public or private sector enterprise that dovetails with their academic or career interests. Second, the internship will give students a real-world experience that will then be examined and explored through the application of sociological concepts, methods, and theories.
Topical Outline
The internship will unfold in four main steps: 1. Identifying and securing access to an internship site. This is the responsibility of the student, not the Sociology department or its staff. This should be done in consultation with a faculty member in Sociology, but it is student initiated. 2. Crafting a written working agreement with a faculty member in Sociology regarding the internship site and activities along with expectations about the required research paper. The written working agreement must be approved by the Sociology Undergraduate Coordinator before the internship begins. 3. Student engagement with the internship experience. It is important that periodic communication occur between the student and faculty member during this time. Broad expectations regarding the extent, timing, and character of that communication should be articulated in step 2 (above). 4. The formulation, execution, and delivery of an original research paper inspired by the internship experience. Expectations regarding the paper and any in-process requirements (e.g., outlines or discussions of potential topics) should be part of step 2 (above).