Not a Sociology Major?

Whether you are exploring the discipline or thinking about declaring the major, Sociology offers tools for analyzing inequality, institutions, culture, politics, health, law, and global change. Our courses develop critical thinking, research, and analytical writing skills that are valuable across careers and professions. 

Sociology also contributes to several interdisciplinary programs, including American Studies, Gender, Sexuality, & Women’s Studies, Public Policy, Africana Studies, Environmental Science & Policy, and International Relations. 

Thinking About Majoring?

If you are considering the Sociology major, taking one or two introductory courses is a good place to start. Our lower-level courses provide exposure to core concepts and methods, while upper-level courses allow you to explore specialized topics and concentrations. 

If you want to get a broad overview of the field, try one of our 100- or 200-level courses. 

FIRST SEMESTER COURSE GUIDE BY MAJOR

Exploring Sociology (But Not Majoring)

You do not need to major or minor in Sociology to benefit from our courses. Many students across campus take Sociology classes to better understand their everyday lives, their communities, and the broader social forces shaping the world around them. 

Sociology courses often complement other majors: 

• Education students frequently take Sociology of Education. 

• Pre-med students often take Medical Sociology. 

• International Relations students may take courses on Globalization and International Development. 

• Students interested in law, public policy, health, environment, or inequality regularly find Sociology courses relevant to their academic and professional goals. 

Many 200- and 300-level courses do not have formal prerequisites, but students who have not taken a Sociology course should consult the instructor before enrolling in courses numbered above 300. 

Understanding Course Levels

Our course numbering system is designed to help you choose the right course for your background and interests: 

• 100-level courses fulfill the COLL 100 or COLL 150 requirement. 

• 200-level courses are designed for students with no prior exposure to sociology or to the subject area of the course. 

• 300-level courses are intended for students who have taken at least one sociology course or have prior academic exposure to the topic. 

• 400-level courses are advanced seminars for juniors and seniors who have completed two or more sociology courses or have significant prior preparation.