Sociology

Program Overview

The subject matter of sociology includes the study and comparison of social institutions, social relationships, group structure and behavior, social organization, cultural values, social deviance, public opinion and communication, industry, intergroup relations and social conflict, social change, urbanization, and population analysis.

Students interested in majoring in sociology will find that a general liberal arts background is necessary to an informed understanding of the nature of modern societies. Sociology as the science of society provides the student with a perspective for viewing and assessing major political, economic, religious, and familial trends in contemporary social systems.

Sociology majors may find many professional and occupational opportunities in teaching and education, government, research, social work, criminology, corrections, rehabilitation and in industry and business. In general, the Ph.D. is required for full professional status in collegiate teaching and, on occasion, for certain types of positions in government and research; however, the Master's degree in sociology is generally adequate for community college teaching, and the bachelor's degree is sufficient for many opportunities in industry, social welfare, correction, probation and parole.