Sociology
What We Offer
Major: B.A. in Sociology Sociology is the scientific study of society. The sociology program provides students with methodological and analytical tools that enable them to critically engage social reality in all its diversity and complexity: personal outcomes (e.g., school achievement, divorce) are studied in connection with larger, social patterns; local developments (e.g., unemployment, sprawl) are analyzed in the context of global dynamics; frameworks of understanding (e.g., of gender, class) are examined in light of objective, measurable outcomes. This methodical, critical reflection upon social life fosters greater understanding of the human condition, and enables students to become more effective agents of redemption and change in the world.
Minor: Sociology
The last two years our sociology seniors score in the 90th or 95th percentile of similar sociology departments across the nation (according to ETS Major Field Exams). Our department has a strong emphasis on the international context. The majority of the faculty comes from outside the United States. Most of our students study abroad or participate in mission trips both inside and outside of North America. Since many of our students are engaged in social justice, the department provides a number of internship possibilities within the Philadelphia area.
What our Graduates Do
Sociology majors engage their world in a number of different ways: some become journalists, while others pursue careers in law or international relations; many go into business; many others channel their skills toward the work of ministry, the field of politics, or the non-profit sector. Graduate work and academic careers are also popular among graduates. By giving our students a firm grounding in such basics as theory, research methodology and data analysis, as well as critical thinking and engagement of the Christian faith, our program positions them particularly well for the informed pursuit of their call in life.
Contact Information
“I was drawn to sociology because it caused me to take a second look at the things I took for granted to be foundational. To say the least, it rocked me. Sociology teaches me the importance of striving to live a lifestyle that takes into account our inextricable ties to one another as human beings and to creation. It teaches me the ways we have allowed greed and individualism to stand in the way of such relationship. Sociology points me to a deeper understanding of the depth of human evil and the need for an intensely generous and creative love that covers it all. Ultimately, sociology leads me to grace.”
