Why study sociology?

1. You will master a range of transferable skills opening doors to a wide range of career options.

2. You will gain an understanding of different points of view from the diverse students in our program preparing you to succeed in an increasingly diverse and complex world.

3. The varied topics of study and breadth of the discipline foster versatility and adaptability, complementing other degree programs. Many sociology majors opt to complete a second major in criminology or psychology.

4. Our students want to make a difference in their community and in the world and the knowledge and skills you take away from the program prepare you to be a positive change agent.

5. Relevant and dynamic as a field of study, sociologists engage the issues that impact our daily lives and examine how the rapidly changing social environment will shape our future.

A minor in sociology is an excellent complement for a number of different majors, including Criminology, Psychology, Political Science, History, Social Work, and Spanish. Sociology minors are interested in careers in criminal justice, victim advocacy, youth programming, health-related fields, counseling, non-profit community agencies, government, higher education, human resource management, business, community planning, program development, and public policy. All professionals need to understand individuals and groups and the social contexts that shape peoples' attitudes, choices, and behaviors.

From analyzing the implications of wide-ranging contemporary social issues and social inequalities to understanding the interplay among science, technology, and society, the diversity of course offerings allows sociology minors to explore topics relevant to their interests. From exploring how our lives are reflected in popular culture, in music, and in films to examining the underlying patterns of social relations in small groups and formal organizations, in legal institutions, and in the economic and political arena, our classes enrich understanding in a number of areas.

Students not earning a major in sociology can add a sociology minor to their degree program.

Specific Program Requirements

Minors in sociology require a minimum of 18 semester hours, of which 9 hours must be upper division. SOC 101 is required. No grades below C are accepted toward the minor.