Sociology

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Overview Study in Sociology at the University is designed to provide undergraduates with both a broad, systematic understanding of society and the opportunity to define their own intellectual development. Students receive a grounding in important classic and contemporary social theories; training in research design, empirical data collection, and statistical analysis; and exposure to the current state of knowledge in a variety of substantive areas. For majors who would like to pursue a particular focus, we currently offer two official “concentrations” that are noted on students’ transcripts: Crime, Law, and Power, and Global Economy, Organizations, and Work.

Upon graduation, Sociology students will find that their liberal arts education is useful in many different kinds of careers. Sociology develops knowledge and skills of practical value, including broad understanding of different societal sectors and patterns, the ability to think critically and analytically, and the capacity to express ideas clearly both orally and in writing. Sociology majors are also able to offer employers specific skills in data collection and analysis.

Most Sociology students go on to pursue careers as managers or professionals. Many recent graduates have gone directly from college to work for banks, business firms, publishers, hospitals, state and Federal agencies, social service organizations, and market research firms. Others have successfully pursued graduate training in business, law, social work, public administration, health administration. A few have gone on to pursue academic careers in sociology or related disciplines.

Faculty The full-time faculty members ensure that each semester there is a diverse range of courses offered. Currently, there are more than sixty courses offered in sociology of law, social change, sociology of culture, education and gender, political sociology, religion, family, race and ethnicity, stratification, sociological theory, and urban sociology.

Students The department currently has approximately 200 majors. Many of these students choose to double major in other areas. Sociology and psychology, sociology and history, and sociology and economics are a few typical examples. Outstanding students have continued their work in the field at top departments around the country and several have won scholarships for graduate work.

Although some majors use their undergraduate degree as the first step toward the Ph.D., many majors work in private business or the public sector as managers or professionals. Recent graduates have gone directly to work for banks, retail firms, publishers, hospitals, federal agencies, social service organizations, and market research firms. Other students have entered graduate study in law, business, social work, public administration, and health administration.