PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Sociology Honors Program at CSULB is a way for committed sociology majors can gain rigorous, research-oriented training. Consisting of three special seminar courses and other requirements, the Program seeks to produce graduating seniors capable of conducting graduate level research and writing. Students will receive training in areas such as formulating a research topic, conducting a literature review, learning methodologies, conducting research, analyzing data, writing a thesis and presenting research.

Students who successfully complete the program will receive a BA in Sociology "with honors" and have gained preparation for graduate school or other research-oriented careers.

For more information, read over the requirements for acceptance as well as the application guidelines. Existing or prospective sociology majors can also look at the differences in course "road map" to completion of the BA.

FACULTY RECOMMENDATION LETTER

All applications for the Honors Program should include a letter of recommendation from a faculty member in the department (exchange students may be allowed to submit a letter from another institution with permission).

In the letter, the faculty member should address:

1) Your qualifications for the program.

2) Your aptitude for success in the program.

3) Any other relevant details or insights.

Completed letters need to be sent to the Honors Program committee for evaluation inside a signed, sealed envelope. Ideally, these should accompany the application form so make sure you plan ahead of time accordingly. Faculty members should have at least two weeks notice to work on any recommendation letters.

PERSONAL STATEMENT

Your personal statement should be 2-3 pages* and describe your motivation and qualifications for acceptance into the Honors Program.

Ideally, you should discuss 1) what your interest is in pursuing an honors in Sociology and 2) what you feel qualifies you for the program in terms of background, aptitude, interests, etc.

You should also discuss what you think your potential research focus will be, especially since you'll be expected to have this developed for the Senior Honors Thesis.

Please print and include your statement with your application (and don't forget to put your name on it!)

*2-3 pages = 12 pt font, double-spaced.