Markets and Culture Pathway Guide

Preparation for Transfer as a Markets and Culture Major

The following sequences are suggested courses to take in your semesters prior to transferring to SMU as a markets and culture major. For students attending a Texas public community college or university, Texas Common Course Numbers (TCCNS) are listed.  If you are transferring from a college or university outside of Texas, click on the SMU course for a course description which may be used to select/compare courses at your current institution.

UC listings refer to SMU’s University Curriculum, which all undergraduates are required to complete. Refer to the University Curriculum Transfer Guide for a list of courses satisfying UC components. Interactive equivalency guides organized by transfer institution are available on the Transfer and Transition Services’ website.

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Markets and Culture

Grasp how changing economic and social practices shape the world’s marketplaces by studying Markets and Culture.The dynamics of markets and the factors influencing production, distribution and consumption in the United States and globally are examined from many perspectives. Multidisciplinary in scope, the major brings insights from accounting, anthropology, computer science, economics, English, foreign languages, history, political science, psychology and sociology.

The curriculum features coursework that fosters innovative thinking. Students take core courses in the innovative field of economic sociology and learn basic skills in accounting, database management, and business writing.  In addition, students focus their elective courses in one of three tracks comprised of classes from a variety of disciplines: management and organizations, political economy and development, and consumers and markets in cultural contexts.

Knowledge gained provides powerful ammunition to understand the economic and cultural complexities of globalization and to succeed in an ever-evolving transnational world. Majors in Markets and Culture can pursue a double major or minor in a wide variety of disciplines, such as economics, international studies, business, foreign languages, history, English, anthropology, political science, psychology and sociology.  

Markets and Culture majors generally work in corporate industries that contribute to the global economy, or for government and non-governmental economic organizations.

With faculty from many disciplines, Markets and Culture majors benefit from a variety of viewpoints and experiences. Classes are small enough to provide personal attention as well as opportunities to be involved in hands-on research.

Majoring in Markets and Culture

To earn a B.A. in Markets and Culture , students must complete 30 hours of core coursework and 12 hours of electives.  Students must receive at least a C- and meet a minimum GPA of 2.000 in required coursework.  Prior to declaring a major in Markets and Culture, students must achieve a grade of C or better in SOCI 2377 - Introduction to Markets and Culture .

Preparing for a Smooth Transition

A seamless transfer to SMU and the Markets and Culture program requires planning. This guide is designed to assist you in planning your transition. Taking the time to prepare for your move lays the best foundation for success. The following are a few important points to remember:

• The second language requirement of the University Curriculum may be satisfied by 1) transferring two terms of college courses in the same world language, 2) placing out of four terms of world language by taking an SMU placement test or through AP or IB credit, or 3) being literate in a native language other than English.
• SMU accepts AP scores of 4 or 5.
• Work on the University Curriculum prior to transfer is highly encouraged.
• Compare Course Descriptions found in SMU’s University Catalog to course descriptions at your current institution to maximize your awarded transfer credits.
• For additional information on the Markets and Culture major, visit the Department of Sociology website or call 214-768-4937.
• For more information about transferring to SMU, click here or call 214-768-3417.

SMU Degree

A degree from SMU is typically comprised of a minimum of 122 hours, 60 of which must be completed through SMU, 42 of which must be in courses at the 3000 and higher levels. Components of the degree include:

• Courses in your major.
• Courses required for the University Curriculum (UC).  
• Elective courses.  These electives may be used to add a second major or minor.

The University Curriculum (UC)

The University Curriculum is required of all undergraduate students and consists of three main components: 

1. Foundations - 6 hours of Discernment and Discourse courses, 3 hours of Quantitative Foundation courses, 2 hours of Personal Responsibility and Wellness courses, proficiency in a second language and 3 hours of a Ways of Knowing course (offered only at SMU)
2. Breadth and Depth - 7 Breadth and 3 Depth courses which may double count with majors and minors
3. Proficiencies and Experiences - 6 Proficiencies and Experiences requirements, met through Breadth and Depth coursework or approved, noncredit activities.

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Click here for more information about transferring to SMU.