Exploring the Sociology Curriculum at Community Colleges in the United States

This study examines course catalogs of 850 community colleges in each of the fifty states in order to explore the sociology curriculum offered. As part of the study, a content analysis of introductory sociology course descriptions was also examined. Findings suggest there are some State differences in course offerings and also suggest that state-wide articulation agreements may play a role in explaining sociology courses offerings. In examining course descriptions for introductory courses, the authors note that in many ways course descriptions do not coincide with previous research on what should be taught in an introductory sociology course. Overall, findings suggest there is a strong need for further research on sociology within the community college context.