Sociology is the study of the social relationships and institutions of humans and how we interact with one another in groups. Subjects can be as small as a nuclear family or as large as entire ethnicities. Sociologists are interested in issues relating to social class, race, crime, poverty, addiction, and a wide range of other topics. Some research methods that sociologists use in their studies include conducting surveys, analyzing census data, interviews, observing social interactions, and interpreting historical documents and events. The information that sociologists gather helps us to understand the human social experience and interpret how larger societal factors affect personal experiences and beliefs.
An undergraduate degree in sociology provides a strong liberal arts foundation for entry-level positions in social services, law or criminal justice, education, community development, marketing or other business-related fields and government jobs. Those who enter human services might work with youths at risk, the elderly or people experiencing problems related to poverty, substance abuse or the justice system. Those who enter the business world might work in sales, marketing, customer relations or human resources. Others may choose a teaching career. Sociology also offers valuable preparation for careers in journalism, politics, public relations, business or public administration — fields that involve investigative skills and working with diverse groups. In addition, an undergraduate degree in sociology is excellent preparation for future graduate work in sociology in order to become a professor, researcher or applied sociologist.
Sociologists can work in a variety of fields. Some potential employers include:
Because sociologists are interested in human behavior, social interactions, and the structure of social groups, there are opportunities for sociology majors to work in all aspects of a society. Students with an undergraduate sociology degree learn skills like empathy, teamwork, collaboration, research, data analysis, and enhanced verbal and written communication skills that apply to a range of careers that often do not require a graduate degree to obtain. Some common jobs for sociology graduates include social workers, human resources professionals, paralegals, community health workers, and public relations specialists, among many others.
Major Requirements (36 credits)
SO 101 Introduction to Sociology - 3 credits
AN 222 Cultural Anthropology - 3 credits
SO 235 Inequality and Social Problems - 3 credits
PY 203 Statistics I - 3 credits
SO 307 Sociological Theory - 3 credits
AN 360 Qualitative Research Methods - 3 credits
SO 405 Senior Seminar I - 3 credits
SO 450 Senior Seminar II - 3 credits
Any Four Sociology Electives (12 credits)
Students are encouraged to select a complimentary area of study (minor or second major) in consultation with their faculty adviser.
Below are some examples of topics that senior sociology students have chosen as their thesis:
Graduate schools attended:
Types of jobs held:
With a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Saint Vincent College, students will receive a strong liberal arts foundation for entry-level positions in social services, law and criminal justice, education, community development, marketing or other business-related fields, and government jobs. An undergraduate degree in sociology is also great preparation for graduate work in applied sociology or other research in the social sciences. A background in sociology can be a great addition to other fields as well, both in and out of the humanities and social sciences.
Student Learning Outcomes include: