Overview
The program in sociology is designed to be a valuable part of every liberal arts education as it teaches students to recognize the impact of social, economic, and historical forces on one's life and the lives of others. Through the progressive acquisition of skills, students learn the basic principles of sociology to apply to a critical analysis of social issues and social settings. By giving students research and internship opportunities to practically use their sociological knowledge, they are encouraged to become responsible and engaged citizens who are committed to creating positive social change.
Sociology presents many distinctive ways of looking at the world so as to generate new ideas and assess the old ones in most occupational settings. Career opportunities in sociology are numerous but the most popular ones are in the areas of education, social service, government, business, and research. Sociology is also a useful major for students planning careers in professions such as law and medicine. Finally, sociology provides students with a solid background in research and analytic techniques, skills valued by employers in most non-profit and for-profit organizations.
Willamette sociology students have a variety of opportunities available to them including internships, hands on research and observation assignments and, for honors students, the chance to conduct and report upon a research project of their own creation.
What is Sociology?
Sociology is the study of the organization, dynamics and consequences of social life. The scope of the discipline is as broad and diverse as social life itself. Thus, sociological inquiry examines the dynamics of interaction and relationships, organizations and institutions, and whole societies. The methods of sociological investigation are also varied; sociologists immerse themselves in the everyday life of a group, analyze videotaped interaction, interview group participants, interpret historical documents, analyze census data, and conduct large scale surveys and laboratory experiments.
Areas of Study at Willamette
- Sex and Gender
- Medicine and Healthcare
- Racial and Ethnic Studies
- Family Studies
- Urban Studies
- Social Psychology
- Sociology of Sports
- International Development and Globalization
- Group Dynamics