Students in the standard major get broad exposure to the sociological imagination, methods, and substantive areas of inquiry. Students are provided with theory and methods used to diagnose and resolve social problems, understand and analyze social processes, and describe and investigate collective behavior and its determinants.

Requirements and coursework

There are no prerequisites for the Sociology major. Completing either a first-year seminar or one introductory course by the end of the sophomore year is recommended.

Candidates for the intensive major should indicate interest to the DUS by registration period in the spring for the fall term of their senior year. 

Requirements for the standard major include the following:

• Thirteen term courses in sociology (including the senior requirement). At least one must be an introductory Sociology course, but no more than two introductory courses may count toward the total.
• Two courses in sociological theory (SOCY 2001 and 2002)
• One course in research design (SOCY 2100), usually completed in spring of junior year.
• One course in a social science methodology (e.g., S&DS 1000, 1100, or 3630).
• The senior requirement