A Cornerstone Course in Sociology: Providing Students with Theory, Methods, and Career Preparation Early in the Major

Abstract

Cornerstone courses bridge introductory content from lower-level survey courses with the more advanced theoretical and methodological content of upper-level, major-only courses. Cornerstones are implemented with the goal of better preparing students for advanced coursework and/or assisting them with understanding their major and its associated career options. Although cornerstones are common in psychology, biology, and business, they are seemingly less popular in sociology curriculums. This article uses evaluation data from a newly instituted cornerstone course in sociology to illustrate the potential benefits these courses can have for students as well as the discipline more generally.