Sociology (B.A.)
Sociology is a diverse social science that brings both qualitative and quantitative/scientific methods to bear on understanding human and group or institutional behavior. The focus is on understanding the impact of social, cultural or interactional contexts on behavior (i.e., it's an "environmental" science that looks at how contextual factors guide or structure the choices people and groups make).
- Degrees & Offerings
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- B.A.
- Department
- College
- Program Contact
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Chair of the Department of Sociology and Social Work, and Criminal Justice, Associate Professor of Sociology
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Secretary for the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice
Where will your climb take you?
Your first step starts here! Our sociology program offers you the opportunity to look at various substantive areas in the discipline, as well as ample opportunity to explore personal interests and achieve academic success.
Faculty specialization and teaching interests include:
- economic stratification
- race and ethnicity
- crime and deviance
- family dynamics
- the workplace
- sports
- community and population
- mass media
- environmental issues
Other Programs You May Be Interested In
Courses and Curriculum
Beyond Bloomsburg
Research
Sociology majors are strongly encouraged to find an opportunity for experiential learning outside the classroom. Majors should consider doing independent research or taking our upper level research courses and then presenting their work in an on-campus forum or at a conference. The faculty are also involved individually in research and welcome the opportunity to involve motivated and diligent students in their work.
The sociology program has close ties with the Center for Community Research and Consulting, which provides numerous opportunities every year for undergraduates to get involved in diverse applied sociological research projects.
Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (URSCA) awards provides summer stipend support to students participating in summer research, scholarship, or creative activities. Students can receive a maximum stipend of up to $6,000 for a full-time project during the 12 weeks of summer session.
Internships
Sociology majors, particularly those less interested in research, are encouraged to consider internships during their junior or senior year, especially for students that are not planning on pursuing graduate study in sociology. Interns get placement in a wide variety of settings based on future career interests.
Possible sociology internship areas
- criminal justice
- social services
- non-profit
- public school settings
In consultation with the faculty internship supervisor and the supervisor at the internship site, we aim to make sure the student has a rewarding and enriching experience and one in which the tools of the sociological perspective are employed.
The Husky Difference
Salary Potential
The median annual wage for sociologists is $86,110, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
4%
Expected Job Growth
Most sociology jobs require a master’s degree or Ph.D.
Careers
Career options for students obtaining a bachelor’s degree in sociology are diverse. It's the basis for pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree in sociology, leading to careers in academia, research or applied sociology. Sociology graduates also find themselves in entry level corporate, non-profit organization and government agency jobs.
Program Contacts
Christopher Podeschi, Ph.D.
- Chair of the Department of Sociology and Social Work, and Criminal Justice, Associate Professor of Sociology
Gwen Stancavage
- Secretary for the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminal Justice
Applying to this Program
Apply
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Application Process
Review the step-by-step process whether you're a first-year student, transferring to BU, or more.
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