Sociology Major
Sociology is the scientific study of people in a social context. It examines the forces and factors that unite us in our shared experiences, perspectives, values, beliefs, and behaviors. The field explores such topics such as how technology as a part of our shared culture plays a role in both bringing us together and in isolating us. Sociology is also about the study of what divides us. The field looks at the intersection of race, class, gender, education, and what role they play in wealth and poverty, in prejudice and discrimination, in crime, law, and deviance.
Explore. See. Understand.
Accelerated Online Program!
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs are designed for working adults, transfer students, and anyone seeking a virtual option to earn a college degree. Featuring a dynamic structure of seven-week courses offered year-round.
It’s the same respected degree, now with the flexibility to fit your life.
Parkside’s Sociology curriculum includes an understanding of theories and methods used by sociologists, as well as substantive areas to which these theories and methods are applied, allows for pursuit of a major or a minor, and it offers a variety of certificates that will make you well rounded for a successful 21st century career.
As a Parkside Sociology major, you will graduate well-prepared to begin your career equipped with
- Knowledge in substantive areas such as Criminology and Deviance, Family and Human Services, Race and Ethnic Relations, Urban Institutions and the Occupational World, and Evaluation and Practice
- Awareness of a global perspective
- Skills in Data Collection & Analysis from coursework, research projects, and conference presentations
- Skills in Program Evaluation from coursework and need based community projects, practicums, and internships
- Real world experience from involvement in community projects, study abroad, and internships
- Leadership, teamwork, and organizational skills by participating in community projects, study abroad, internships, and the Sociology Club activities
CAREER PATHS
Social Worker | Human Service Specialist | Program Evaluation Specialist | Case Manager |
Urban Studies Researcher | Gerontology Specialist
Sociology is the study of the interrelationship between the individual and the society. It examines the forces and factors that unite us in our shared experiences, perspectives, values, beliefs, and behaviors. The field explores such topics such as how technology as a part of our shared culture plays a role in both bringing us together and in isolating us. Sociology is also about the study of what divides us. The field looks at the intersection of race, class, gender, education, and what role they play in wealth and poverty, in prejudice and discrimination, in crime, law, and deviance.
From a macro perspective, Sociology studies drivers of social change, population growth, migration, and globalization. It delves into the share of economic output in the private and public sector, share of women and men in the labor force, trends in urbanization, marriage, child rearing, national and religious affiliation, secularization, social causes of conflict and peace.
What is Sociological Imagination?
The study of Sociology will help you appreciate how social forces shape our lives and the world around us. The field will challenge you to think from a fresh perspective, known as the sociological imagination. The sociological imagination, coined by C Wright Mills, is the ability to see how our individual experiences and worldview is both a function of the historical context and the immediate environment in which we live. The field will provide you with the tools to tie the private troubles of citizens to public issues to mitigate social change.
Along with our major, minor, and online programs we offer seven unique and exciting certificates for interested students of Sociology:
- Diversity & Inclusion
- Family & Human Services
- Gerontology
- Health & Society
- Program Evaluation
- Social Justice
- Urban Studies
Tessa Brown began to envision herself as a college student when she had an opportunity to tour Parkside. “I knew I wanted to be able to help people from a clinical perspective,” she said. “I felt that I could make a difference.” Brown realized where she could fit in. The city of Racine has one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the nation and that motivated Tessa to start her own nonprofit organization while still at Parkside. Foundations of Life works with teen parents and their families to empower them through education, and jobs.
Brown’s agency has already made a strong impact. Research reveals that 1 in 4 teen moms will have a second child before their baby is one year old. Teens served by Brown’s Foundations of Life have not had subsequent pregnancies, leading to a 100% success rate for the non-profit organization. “That’s a huge outcome for us. Our approach is working,” Brown said. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D while continuing to serve the community.
You will be seeking employment in an ever changing, increasingly global, and technology driven workplace. A degree in sociology will help you develop the skills you need for a successful 21st-century career. As a sociology graduate, you will have a foundation for better understanding and engaging with the changing world. Given the scope and breadth of the field, employment opportunities are plenty.
- Counseling and Therapy
- Social Services
- Administrative Support
- Heath Care Industry
- Higher Education
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Teaching
- Publishing
Contact
Mita Banerjee | banerjee@uwp.edu | 262-595-3418
