The scientific study of social life
Sociology provides fundamental insight on social matters. Because our lives are affected by our place in the social world, the discipline seeks to understand the connection between people and society. Sociologists study and work across a broad range of issues—from inequality to health, from deviance to family, from work to gender and race. Few fields offer students opportunities of such breadth.
Congratulations!
Congratulations to our graduate students who presented posters at the GPSA Research Exposition!
Jingyu Lang
Andrew Myers
Bronwyn Valentine
Jasmine Willis
Featured Undergraduate Course
Environmental Inequality and Justice (SOC 338)
This course investigates why communities with fewer resources often face greater exposure to environmental hazards—and what can be done about it. From toxic waste sites to climate-related disasters, environmental risks are not distributed equally. We explore the social and political forces behind these inequities and examine solutions aimed at creating healthier communities. This course equips students, especially those interested in sustainability, environmental policy, community advocacy, public health, and nonprofit leadership, to drive meaningful change around environmental issues.
Soc 338: Environmental Inequality and Justice is part of our new Minor in Environmental Policy & Equity.
Experiential Learning
Take your education out of the classroom and into the world! Experiential learning opportunities and the capstone course help you apply your academic learning to effect change in communities and workplaces or get involved in hands-on research.
Department Announcements
- Dr. Jennifer Sherman’s work on rural SNAP beneficiaries was mentioned in a New York Times article on November 4, 2025, “It Would Be Trump’s Honor to Pay for Food Stamps,” by Thomas B. Edsall.
- Department of Sociology Anti-Racism Statement