The combined program in Sociology and Anthropology provides service learning and career preparation opportunities for those interested and committed to promoting peace, understanding and positive change in society. The program helps students learn to ask questions about their society and other societies around the world, to think critically about answers to these questions, and to explore various opportunities for responsible, committed citizenship in an international community. Students receive a solid grounding in social theory in their first year. Majors and minors then apply these concepts in thematic courses, practicums and research experiences. In addition, majors and minors are exposed to issues in cultural pluralism and diversity through coursework in gender, ethnicity, social class, and in at least one course with a transnational focus.
The sociology and anthropology program emphasizes preparation for careers and graduate training in basic and applied social science fields such as social work, community relations, alternative dispute resolution, criminal justice, education, international relations and service, human resources and advocacy, as well as research and teaching.
Students are strongly encouraged to complete coursework in another language. Students majoring in Sociology and Anthropology may select a minor in any subject, or, they may choose to concentrate their studies in areas such as social work, race and ethnicity, gender studies, biocultural studies, museum studies, or economic studies. Students interested in ethnic art or ethnomusicology may wish to combine a sociology/anthropology minor with a major in art or music.
Sociology and Anthropology Learning Outcomes
With the completion of this degree program, the following learning outcomes can be expected:
- Students will demonstrate knowledge of core sociological and anthropological concepts.
- Students will develop an ability to apply theories and research methods to address sociological and anthropological problems/questions.
- Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate sociological and anthropological knowledge to others effectively, accurately and professionally, in written and oral forms.
- Students will develop the ability to engage in respectful, reciprocal and mutually beneficial ways with individuals and communities at the local, national and global levels to advocate for and advance peace, understanding and positive change in society; to advocate for and advance equity and social justice.
- Students will possess analytical/critical thinking skills in areas such as community relations, international relations and services, alternative dispute resolution, advocacy, communication, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and problem-solving.
