How much of who we are is influenced by others? To answer that question, sociologists look behind the scenes to try to understand relationships between individuals and groups.
Sociology is the systematic study of group life. It seeks to describe and explain how societies work and to understand the human condition. Sociologists study all aspects of social life—for example, marriages and families, racial and cultural minorities, social classes, gender roles, the criminal justice system, environmental problems, human sexuality, mass media and popular culture, homelessness, and much more. Sociology will help you to understand your behavior and that of others in situations ranging from the classroom to the work place. Classes provide a background in social analysis and insight into human affairs and majors often comment that the program helps them to be more open-minded, objective, and understanding.
There is a lot more to Sociology than learning in a classroom, however. Students (and professors) frequently volunteer at area soup kitchens and in the past have completed internships at local schools, hospitals, radio stations, social services, and other locations. Many students combine Sociology with the Inclusive Education Program (Quad Program) and become teachers. Others go on to attend graduate school or to work in such fields as counseling, human resources, communications, human services, and international relations.
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