Sociology


Major, Minor

Westminster College of Arts and Sciences

4-Year Degree

Students standing on the outside of a building

The Sociology Program at Westminster University

Sociology is the study of the groups, organizations, institutions, interactions, and relationships that make up the social world. Throughout the program, you’ll have the chance to conduct social research, pursue your personal areas of interest, and share your work at conferences all over the United States.

With its wide array of subject areas, small class sizes, and funding opportunities for research and travel, the sociology program offers a personalized learning environment filled with abundant opportunities. As one of the most flexible and interdisciplinary programs at Westminster, the Sociology program truly allows you to customize your learning. You can even apply credits from other classes in other areas of social science toward your sociology degree, allowing you to complete your degree in as little as three semesters. Plus, you can earn credit through internships, directed studies, and study abroad experiences.

Who the Sociology Program Is For

The sociology program is for anyone who wants to enhance their understanding of the social world—and all of its possibilities, probabilities, and variabilities—and make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of the people who inhabit it.

What You'll Learn in the Sociology Program 

In the Sociology program, you will explore the foundations of sociology through various perspectives via interactive lectures, readings, class discussions, field trips, and hands-on experiences in the community. The program will prepare you to excel in many different graduate programs, professional programs, and careers.

What Are the Key Benefits of the Sociology Program?

  • Choose from over two dozen classes on a wide variety of topics including gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, inequality, social policy, popular culture, sports, family, and social work.
  • Engage in socially relevant subject matter with nationally recognized professors who are as passionate about their teaching as they are about their work.
  • Work closely with your classmates in small, engaging, interactive classes.
  • Develop relationships with professors who provide personal support to each and every student through coursework assistance, career advice, research mentorship, letters of recommendation, and friendships that last a lifetime.
  • Opportunities to evaluate, design, and conduct social research projects.

sample Sociology courses

  • SOC-205: Social Problems
  • SOC-313: Social Theory

  • SOC-330: Sports and Society
  • SOC-375: Social Welfare Policy

 

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Our Faculty

Kristjane Nordmeyer, PhD
Professor

Mark Rubinfeld, PhD
Professor

 

liberal education courses

You must complete the WCore program or join the Honors College (and complete requirements) to fulfill your liberal education credits.

 

potential Sociology careers

  • Social services
  • Law
  • Politics
  • Government
  • Teaching
  • Social work
  • Counseling
  • Community organization
  • Public relations
  • Human resources
  • Communications
  • Media
  • Journalism
  • Advertising
  • Marketing

 

Sociology Program Plan of Study

You'll start with a foundational course in sociology before moving on to more advanced courses in social problems, social theory, and social research methods. The majority of your coursework will be completed through electives covering a wide range of sociological topics or other areas of social science including anthropology, justice studies, political science, and psychology. You'll complete your degree requirements with a senior project or thesis that explores any sociology-related question, issue, or theme that most interests you.

The program can also be taken as a minor, which complements just about any other major.

Sociology Career Opportunities

A degree in sociology prepares you for just about any occupation that involves working with people. Our students have gone on to work in social services, public policy, education, health care, and business. Others have chosen to continue their education in graduate, law, or medical school.

Student Success

More than 95% of sociology students who apply for graduate or professional programs are accepted. Placements have included the University of California at Berkeley, the University of Michigan, Boston College, the University of Washington, Columbia University, and Northwestern University, among many others.

Potential Employers

  • Highland Ridge Hospital 
  • The Road Home 
  • Volunteers of America 
  • YWCA Utah 

Tuition and Aid

There's No Better Investment Than You

Westminster University knows you want an education where you matter—a place that will serve as a launchpad for a successful career and a meaningful life. Westminster will work with you individually through every step of the financial aid process. From scholarships to grants and loans, Westminster helps you make it happen.

With the highest percentage of students who complete one or more internships in the state, Westminster students hit the ground running with real-world experience. Plus, 90% of students were either employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduating. With a Westminster degree, you don't have to choose between a successful career and a fulfilling life.

Learn About Tuition

You’ll be automatically considered for scholarship and grant opportunities.

In addition to general merit scholarships, other scholarship programs are available to support you throughout your time at Westminster.

Check Out Scholarships

Your tuition, fully paid

All students should have the ability to explore their passions. Westminster University is proud to cover the cost of tuition for qualifying students through the Westminster Commitment.

Learn About the Westminster Commitment