Sociology is a broad discipline dealing with interpersonal behavior. It examines the behavior of social units as small as the family or two people riding an elevator and as large as a company, a city, a country, or the entire world. Because sociology critically examines "truths" frequently taken for granted, it does more than offer its own distinctive area of information. Training in sociology leads to a mode of critical thinking that enables one to push beyond established boundaries. Such a skill is invaluable in a wide range of professions.

Community-based research is done with and for community groups. It is research in which the community groups themselves help set the agenda of research questions so that the results are directly useful to them. It is a way through which the university as a whole can become more engaged with the wider community. Students play a central role in this approach. They go out into the community to acquire hands-on experience relating to their classroom work.

Career Opportunities:

An undergraduate degree in sociology is excellent preparation for law school, medical school, or for graduate work in such fields as sociology, history, political science, gerontology, or political science. Outside of academics, sociologists work in a wide variety of settings. Some serve as statistical analysts for market research firms, health care agencies, and government. Others are involved in urban planning, survey research, public relations, agency management, trend analysis, or criminal justice. There are sociologists of religion working for national church organizations, and sociologists specializing in gerontology who are engaged in research or administration for agencies concerned with the aged.

Coursework

This major has four components: theory, methods, substantive coursework, and special coursework in community-based research. Majors are required to take all courses under the categories of theory and methods and between 9 and 15 credits of participatory research. In addition, they are required to take at least 24 credits of substantive coursework in sociology, psychology, and related fields.

Sample Program of Study.

List of Classes.

List of Faculty Members.

Co-op and Internship Programs: Drexel Co-op - "The Ultimate Internship"

Positions held by sociology students include the following:

• Research Coordinator, West Philadelphia Community Center
• Counselor, Camden Youth Program
• Research Analyst, Philadelphia Stock Exchange
• Case Investigator, Howard County Police Department
• Assistant Copy Editor, Philadelphia Newspapers, Inc.