Sociology
About
Sociology majors explore human behavior as it relates to social interaction with individuals, social groups and social institutions like the family, the workplace and government. Sociologists study and understand how various areas of inequality (such as race, class and gender) influence these interactions within the larger social structure. Sociology majors also have a strong background in writing, critical thinking, theory and research.
Why is Sociology in Demand?
- Sociology majors study different cultures to gain global perspective and enrich their own worldviews, learning to take a more objective approach in all settings.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, leadership, critical thinking, theory and research are applicable in any career path.
- Studying human nature – motivations, fears, cultural norms and reactions – provides a deeper level of understanding of the world and insight into how we can make a difference in the lives of others.
Is it for me?
Are you:
- A motivated, caring individual?
- An analytical thinker?
- Committed to ongoing education and career development?
Five Reasons to Choose Scranton for Sociology
Preparing You For Personal & Professional Successplus or minus
You’ll learn how to:
- Understand human interaction
- Think analytically
- Apply theory to real situations
- Foster equality among all social groups
- Design and implement meaningful social research
What You'll Learnplus or minus
Curriculum
Students complete required courses in the first two years of study and supplement their semesters with carefully chosen electives. In their senior year, students complete either an independent study, a capstone course in sociology or an internship in social work to launch them into professional work.
Click here to see the curriculum.
Sociology Minor
Students who wish to minor in sociology must take 18 credits in the department. Three courses are specified and the other three are electives within the major.
Research Projects
Did you know that Facebook has more than 1.28 billion monthly active users? One of the most fascinating “laboratories” to explore human behavior today is on social media. At Scranton, you’ll have a timely opportunity to research appropriate behavior on Facebook. Mentored by Dr. Loreen Wolfer, Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice, you’ll conduct focus groups and surveys of fellow students, faculty and staff to determine at what point different types of posts are deemed inappropriate by Facebook users and why.
Internships
Many sociology students have internships at local government agencies in the area. Scranton alumni are particularly helpful in offering positions to current students. These are just some of the places where Sociology majors have completed internships:
- Colormark, LLC
- Mid Valley High School
- United Neighborhood Centers
Pursue Your Passion and Make a Differenceplus or minus
In our increasingly complicated world, it is valuable to understand why individuals and groups of people do what they do. Discovering motivations, fears and cultural norms that motivate human beings can help us learn to deal with conflict ranging from world affairs to personal relationships. Sociologists work to combat injustice and foster cooperation throughout society. They make a difference every day.
Scranton students begin to contribute to the world long before they officially enter their fields of interest. Service learning enables students to devote their time and energy to worthy pursuits in the context of an academic course. Faculty-sponsored research enables students to help gather important data to foster understanding of the human race.
Careers
Where will sociology take me?
Students enter the workforce armed with practical skills and experience. Here are some examples of jobs depending on your interests:
- Sociologists
- Counselors
- Researchers
- Social workers
Top Graduate Schools
Many sociology majors choose to earn advanced degrees. Some universities our graduates have attended include:
- Western New England University
- The University of Scranton
- Montclair State University
- Molloy College
- Temple University
- SUNY University of Buffalo
- Marywood University
Leading Employers
You’ll find Scranton graduates working at a wide range of companies and organizations including:
- Invisible Children
- Everything Natural
- Jesuit Volunteer Corps
How Scranton Gives You a Competitive Edge
Faculty members are more than willing to customize recommendation letters for every senior student in sociology. Their relationships with individual students, combined with their investment in the success of their students, inspires faculty to advocate for sociology majors as they pursue jobs or advanced study.
In addition, the ability for students to double major or focus their studies in a specific area of interest gives their resumes an extra boost, plus a leg up on competitors for jobs.
Sociology graduates from Scranton are prepared to thrive in graduate school.
Take the Next Step
Get the Facts
For More Information
Office of Admissions
The Estate
Scranton, PA 18510
1-888-SCRANTON or (570) 941-7540
570-941-7572
admissions@scranton.edu
Department of Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity and Sociology
Michael J. Jenkins, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Sociology/Criminal Justice/Criminology
(570) 941-7455
michael.jenkins@scranton.edu