Sociology

About the sociology major

Human beings are social animals. As a sociology major, you'll study what influences what people think, say, and do and how they're influenced by others. In sociology, you'll study the patterns of interaction between people in all sorts of settings: at work, play, home, and more. You'll learn systematic ways to examine how humans interact with their surroundings by studying families, criminals, and other sub-populations while learning about social problems, such as crime, poverty, racial inequality, and political change. The sociology major offers a wide variety of exciting courses so you can tailor your coursework to fit your educational and career goals.

Skills and abilities this major develops: problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and research (IU School of Liberal Arts, 2018).

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Families and society
  • Introduction to sociology statistics
  • Juvenile delinquency and society
  • Social psychology
  • Sociology of death and dying
  • Sociology of work
  • Women and health

Possible careers

  • Attorney*
  • Communications specialist
  • Community development
  • Human resources
  • Lobbyist
  • Marketing
  • Nonprofit program coordinator
  • Professor*

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • August Mack
  • Government agencies
  • Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
  • Keter Environmental
  • Profit and nonprofit businesses

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

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