Sociology & Anthropology

Sociology is the study of group life. A sociologist studies the social and cultural forces which shape the behavior, beliefs, and relationships of individual members of a larger society. This study includes all types of social interaction, from economic to political to cultural, and the full range of social organizations, from small groups to communities to large nations. Anthropology is the holistic study of humankind both past and present. It requires a global perspective that seeks to understand both human universals and cultural differences. The department's offerings include both cultural and biological anthropology. Our department houses both the sociology and anthropology programs and offers:

a major in sociology; minors in sociology and anthropology
ample opportunities for research and applied experiences
flexibility to incorporate study abroad or a double major
laboratories for quantitative studies, GIS, and physical anthropology

The sociology major is a ten-course major, with a core sequence of four courses (SOC 101, 301, 302, and 499). Sociology majors may elect to complete the major as a general sociology major or as a sociology major with a concentration in one of three concentrations: (1) health and environment; (2) non-profit and community development; or (3) urban and ethnic studies.

Please see our departmental bulletin for full details!

Announcements

SocioNews Spring 2008
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Unlocking a World of Opportunity . . .

	What is Sociology? Sociology is the study of group life. A sociologist studies the social and cultural forces which shape the behavior, beliefs, and relationships of individual members of a larger society. This study includes all types of social interaction, from economic to political to cultural, and the full range of social organizations, from small groups to communities to large nations.
	Why Major in Sociology? Beyond studying inherently interesting subject matter - groups, social relationships, and cultural change - a student majoring in sociology will develop invaluable skills. These skills include effective writing, problem-solving, data analysis, teamwork, research design and execution, critical thinking, and oral communication. More »
	How is Sociology Relevant? Life today is very complex. The world around us has grown bigger, closer, and more complicated than ever before. Sociology helps students develop the skills necessary to live effectively in this new global era, and understand critical aspects of social life in the 21st century. These include race & ethnicity, global urbanization, family life, social change, poverty, welfare, consumer behavior, religious and moral behavior, health and educational systems, social deviance, community dynamics, population change, and small group processes.