Sociology examines social life, social change, and the social forces that shape human behavior. Sociologists study how individuals interact within groups, organizations, and societies, exploring topics that range from families to global communities, from deviance to institutions, and from social inequalities to shared cultural beliefs.
Central to the discipline is the “sociological imagination,” which helps students connect personal experiences to broader social, historical, and cultural contexts. Students learn how people are shaped by—and also shape—the social worlds they inhabit.
Through this training, sociology majors develop the ability to observe, analyze, and interpret complex social phenomena using a sociological lens.
Skills you will develop
Majoring in sociology will provide you with a set of skills that will empower you to engage critically and constructively both inside and outside of work:
Sociology graduates can analyze complex issues, identify root causes, and develop evidence-based solutions. This skill set is invaluable in addressing societal challenges.
Sociology students explore diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences, which enables them to engage effectively with individuals and communities from various backgrounds. This competency is especially important in our globalized world.
Sociology majors are attuned to societal issues, injustices, and inequalities. This awareness often leads to advocacy and a commitment to social justice. Sociology graduates are frequently at the forefront of movements for positive change.
Sociology students gain a foundation in research and data analysis that equips them to collect and analyze data in order to make evidence-based decisions, and then to communicate their results to broad audiences.
Sociology majors can articulate complex ideas clearly and persuasively, whether in writing or verbally. This proficiency is indispensable in conveying ideas, advocating for change, and fostering understanding in diverse settings.
Sociology students develop skills that allow them to contribute their insights to discussions on pressing societal issues.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sociology degree programs
IU East offers two pathways to earning the B.S. in Sociology degree:
Students choose one of the following five focal areas:
The General focal area offers the most flexible path, ideal for transfer students with upper-level sociology credits. It supports diverse career options and provides strong preparation for graduate studies in sociology.
The Social Justice and Equity focal area prepares students for careers driving positive social change, whether in nonprofit or for-profit sectors, or through graduate studies in sociology.
The Anthropology focal area explores cultural, physical, archaeological, and linguistic anthropology. Students benefit from hands-on experience at IU East’s experimental archaeology center and are prepared for careers in museum studies, cultural resource management, or graduate study in anthropology.
The Human Resources focal area blends upper-level sociology with key business courses through a unique partnership between the sociology and business departments. It prepares students for diverse HR careers, culminating in a capstone internship.
The Social Services focal area prepares students for careers helping individuals, families, and communities navigate life’s challenges. It supports regional service providers and offers flexible entry points, including a 2+2 pathway with Ivy Tech’s Human Services degree.
Program faculty
The B.S. in Sociology degree is housed in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Geography. We have both full- and part-time faculty, all with advanced degrees in their disciplinary area.
Student opportunities
Sociology and anthropology students have the opportunity to experience a variety of extracurricular activities:
Majors and nonmajors may join the Sociology, Anthropology, & Geography Club: SAG Club IU East.
Internships (contact Denise Bullock at debulloc@iu.edu for further information).
Experiential learning trips.
Careers with a degree in sociology
A B.S. in Sociology is a versatile degree for an ever-changing social world. The following are examples of career options organized by focal area:
Working for nonprofit organizations, United Nations, Peace Corps, AmeriCorps, or a government agency.
Careers involving research, corrections, public opinion surveyor, U.S. Census Bureau, college admissions or advising, journalist/podcaster, teaching secondary education.
Careers with cultural resource management, user experience jobs, geographic information systems (GIS), archaeology assistant, cultural guide, park service.
Work as a specialist in recruiting, payroll, benefits, compensation, employee wellness, rewards/recognition, employee relations, compliance, safety, training & development, or performance management.
Careers in social services, social welfare, and social work.
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