Department of Sociology and Anthropology

32nd Annual Conference of the Political Economy of the World-System Section of the American Sociological Association

Why do people form groups and how do groups affect behavior? Why do the rich act and think differently from the poor? What makes some people break social rules and others obey them? What holds societies together? These and other intriguing questions are important to sociology, the study of human society and social behavior. As a major in this field, you will examine the influences that come from interactions with people you meet and know, and other influences that come from the large social structures that shape us in ways we do not always recognize. Anthropology adds a longer perspective, offering insights that illuminate what all human beings have in common. In adding a comparative perspective, anthropology helps us understand our own practices and those of other peoples in a broader cross-cultural context. The study of Sociology and Anthropology is rich with intellectual excitement but is also an avenue to understanding the world in which you will live and work. Majors qualify for a great variety of career fields and are well prepared for graduate study.

As a major in Sociology and Anthropology, you will be counseled carefully by faculty members and encouraged to develop a concentration that reflects your own interest and career education. By choosing certain groups of courses you can develop a concentration in pre-law, business and organizational behavior, social work, family studies, criminal justice and adult probation, polling and market research, international research, or urban studies. The opportunities to choose a path within the field and the chances for field work and internships can give you an excellent start toward postgraduate employment that leads to a long-term career.

A survey of graduates from the last five years found that Sociology and Anthropology majors choose a wide variety of professional careers - an indication of the flexibility of the major and of the versatility of the alumni themselves. A significant number opted for social service as medical and psychiatric social workers, probation officers and counselors with various specialities. A slightly larger number went into management and sales positions in business. Others became teachers at primary, secondary and college levels. Some went into urban or regional planning with government agencies and others into banking, law, accounting, and computers.

Many of the above have entered their career fields after graduate or professional school and they have earned advanced degrees in sociology, law, business administration, finance, social work, and the arts and sciences. Among the institutions where recent graduates have enrolled for advanced studies are Princeton University, Georgetown University, and the University of Chicago.

All sociology majors and minors are urged to consult with the Chair and other members of the Sociology Department in planning their academic programs. This is especially important in coordinating particular course concentrations most suitable for individual career goals.

The department offers a Major in Sociology, a Minor in Sociology, and Course Offerings in Anthropology.

For more information about the Department please e-mail Rose Rodrigues, Chair.