Sociology illuminates the issues at the core of society’s institutions, organizations and groups. The Department of Sociology leads students in the examination and analysis of the dynamics of human interaction locally, nationally and globally.
Professors in the Department of Sociology have been awarded the College’s highest awards for excellence in teaching and engage in innovative and ground-breaking research and activism. They inspire students to implement positive change on a range of critical issues and to ask penetrating questions such as “Why does the United States have the highest incarceration rate in the world?” and “Why do some communities have limited access to clean water?”
The faculty teaches students how to synthesize intellectually challenging material, personalizing their education and involving them actively in classes. They explore subjects as differing as the relationship between mass media and race, Amazon’s challenge to the popularity of big box stores, the effect of globalization on physical and emotional wellbeing and the exploitation of college athletes.
The department puts theory into practice with intensive field experience. Under the guidance of faculty, sociology students branch out into local communities to witness the effects of complex social issues firsthand. They step into the role of sociologists, and many follow up on their field work by collaborating closely with professors to co-author articles for conference presentations and academic journals.
On campus, students can take cross-curricular classes. In addition, they can participate in the College’s specialized multidisciplinary centers, where they can learn to develop policy, find rewarding internships and otherwise enrich their studies.
Sociology majors commonly go on to law school or graduate programs. Popular career paths include communications, social work, and public administration.
