Sociology

Sociology is the scientific study of human society and social behavior. Sociologists study a broad array of social phenomena ranging from the dynamics of social interaction to the composition and workings of entire societies.

The diversity of the faculty is reflected in the many different types of undergraduate and graduate courses offered. Topics include environment; criminology and criminal justice; law and society; juvenile delinquency; social problems; social movements; social inequality; social psychology; race and ethnicity; gender; religion; and family. Students gain mastery of knowledge in topical areas as well as in the methods of social research, enabling them to pursue professional positions in a variety of occupational fields. Many undergraduate majors take advantage of the applied research option by selecting supervised work-related internships. Students at the graduate level may pursue the MS or PhD in Sociology.

In addition to a general Sociology degree, the Department of Sociology offers a variety of BA and BS degree options for students hoping to specialize their education. With options in anthropology, applied sociology, criminology and criminal justice, environment and society, and social services, students can tailor their Sociology degree for their future career field. For those students interested in pursuing professional degrees, the Department of Sociology also offers Pre-Med and Pre-Law options.

The general Sociology degree provides students with a strong foundation in sociological theory and methods while also allowing flexibility for interdisciplinary exploration of society and social behavior. Students seeking professional degrees can further specialize their degree with BS options in both Pre-Medical Science and Pre-Law.

The option in Anthropology familiarizes students with the methods and principles of cultural anthropology, archaeology, and biological anthropology. While studying the history of humans and culture, engaging courses and opportunities for hands-on experience prepare students to enter both academic and nonacademic careers.

The option in Applied Sociology enables students to focus their studies and educational experiences in either law, crime, and social justice; environment and society; or social services. It also provides students practical experience for work in a variety of settings.

The option in Criminology and Criminal Justice prepares students for both academic and nonacademic careers related to crime, criminal behavior, law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. A wide variety of course offerings provide students the opportunity to study topics such as the criminal justice system, drugs and drug policy, juvenile delinquency, and gangs and society.

The option in Environment and Society introduces students to the critical relationship among humans, society, and the environment. Course offerings focus on topics such as environmental hazards and disasters, environmental inequality, and technology, preparing students for future careers in environmental law, government, nonprofit, or academics.

The option in Social Services gives students an opportunity to study specific communities, group trends, and public service. With course offerings such as Sociology of Families, Sociology of Health and Illness, and Social Psychology, students are provided a foundation for careers in both public service and academia.