Sociology (B.A.)

Program Overview

In our program, you will examine social problems, race and ethnicity, gender inequality, criminology, deviant behavior, globalization, human sexuality, social theory and more. Students who study sociology also sharpen their abilities to write, think, speak, analyze and synthesize information.

You will develop an understanding of how people interact with each other and within organizations. You will gain experience working as part of a problem-solving team. You will increase understanding of culture. You will deepen your awareness of social problems in the United States and around the world.

Our program offers rigorous research training, opportunities for experiential and community-based learning and one-credit workshops that emphasize career-relevant skills such as preparing résumés, writing grant proposals and making oral presentations.

Students who major in sociology are prepared for a wide range of careers in social service agencies; state and local governments; higher education; business, criminal justice and healthcare organizations; and organizations that work for social change. Many sociology majors continue their education and enter professions such as city and community planning, social research, social policy, public health, counseling, women’s studies, politics, law, social work and higher education.

Hood’s small classes and caring, committed faculty members offer students multiple opportunities to pursue their own intellectual interests and learning goals. For most students, this means going beyond simply learning about what others have discovered and instead discovering and creating knowledge themselves—doing their own research, independently or in collaboration with other students, faculty members and community partners. Sociology majors are also encouraged to pursue an internship to help prepare them for careers after college.

Sociology Major Courses