Program Overview
The Cal Poly Bachelor’s Pathway in Sociology gives students the opportunity to earn a Cal Poly Bachelor of Arts in Sociology while completing all required Cal Poly courses on the Allan Hancock College Santa Maria campus. Students receive a complete Cal Poly academic experience without commuting to San Luis Obispo.
Visit the Cal Poly Site for More Information
Why Choose the Cal Poly Bachelor’s Pathway at Hancock
Students in the pathway receive access to Cal Poly services and support while learning locally. Benefits include:
- Access to Cal Poly library resources, advising, career services, and wellness support
- A Learn by Doing curriculum taught by Cal Poly faculty
- A cohort experience that fosters community and academic success
- A flexible schedule designed for students balancing work, school, and family
- Optional access to Cal Poly campus events including Week of Welcome, clubs, sports, and performing arts
What You Will Learn
A Sociology degree prepares students to:
- Understand social behavior and social interaction
- Examine the influence of race, class, gender, identity, and power in society
- Analyze national and global forces that shape individuals and communities
- Apply research design, data analysis, and social science methodology
- Connect classroom learning to real world issues through internships and a capstone senior project
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
- Social services and community support
- Criminal justice
- Law and public policy
- Government and public agencies
- Education
- Nonprofit and community based organizations
How to Get Started
Step 1: Prepare
Be on track to earn a Sociology Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT). Completing the
ADT helps meet Cal Poly’s transfer course criteria.
Step 2: Apply
Submit your application to the Cal Poly Bachelor’s Pathway in Sociology during your
final year at Hancock. Select “Sociology at Allan Hancock College” as your intended
major.
Step 3: Apply for Financial Aid
Include the correct school code for the institution administering your aid.
- Allan Hancock College, years 1 and 2: 001111
- Cal Poly, years 3 and 4: 001143
Program Structure
Course Format
All required coursework is offered on the Allan Hancock College Santa Maria campus
and taught by Cal Poly faculty. Courses follow the Cal Poly academic calendar.
Modality
Courses are offered in a mix of in person and hybrid formats, with select online options
when appropriate. The schedule is designed for students managing work, school, and
family responsibilities.
Unit Load and Schedule
Students complete two academic years of upper division sociology and general education
coursework at Hancock. Classes are held in alignment with Cal Poly’s semester schedule.
Learning Experience
Students advance through the program as a cohort and experience Cal Poly’s Learn by
Doing model through research activities, applied coursework, internships, and the
senior capstone project.
Questions and Support
Allan Hancock College University Transfer Center
Phone: 805-922-6966 ext. 3363
Text: 805-922-6977
Cal Poly Sociology Department
Contact: Dr. Sara Lopus
Phone: 805-756-1239
Email: slopus@calpoly.edu
Cal Poly Program Recruitment and Curriculum Contact
Contact: Dr. Lata Murti
Phone: 805-756-0965
Email: lmurti@calpoly.edu
Cal Poly Admissions
Phone: 805-756-2311
Text: 805-865-7177
Email: admissions@calpoly.edu
Cal Poly Financial Aid
Phone: 805-756-2927
Email: financialaid@calpoly.edu