Sociology

Sociology is the study of human society. Sociology asks these questions: How is society shaping us? How are we shaping society? Considering social phenomena from a sociological perspective can be a tremendous asset to one's academic and professional career. Students who study sociology will gain insights on topics ranging from the development of the self (how did you become who you are?), to the functioning of large institutions like religion (why do you believe what you believe?) and health care (how does our society take care of the sick?). They will be exposed to the experiences of immigrants in a new country, as well as the development and dissemination of movies and music. As budding sociologists, students in the Department of Sociology at MSU will seek and find ways to explain the complex and fascinating links between individuals and the groups, organizations, communities, and societies in which we live and function.  At MSU, we emphasize areas such as environmental sociology, the sociology of health and medicine (including the study of mental health), the study of sex and gender, the relationships between animals and human society, and others.

The sociology major is designed to give students an opportunity to develop a broad understanding of the field of sociology, and also to enable them to design their coursework according to their personal academic and career interests.

Additional information about the requirements may be found in the Academic Programs Catalog on the Office of the Registrar website.

Given the breadth, adaptability, and utility of Sociology, employment opportunities abound for graduates. You can secure entry level positions in many of the areas previously mentioned in defining the scope of sociology. The following is just a list of examples—many other paths may be open to you. Employment sectors include:

• social services—in rehabilitation, case management, group work with youth or the elderly, recreation, or administration
• community work—in fund-raising for social service organizations, nonprofits, child-care or community development agencies, or environmental groups
• corrections—in probation, parole, or other criminal justice work
  business—in advertising, marketing and consumer research, insurance, real estate, personnel work, training, or sales
• college settings—in admissions, alumni relations, or placement offices
  health services—in family planning, substance abuse, rehabilitation counseling, health planning, hospital admissions, and insurance companies
  publishing, journalism, and public relations—in writing, research, and editing
• government services—in federal, state, and local government jobs in such areas as transportation, housing, agriculture, and labor
• teaching—in elementary and secondary schools, in conjunction with appropriate teacher certification, as well as in higher education such as colleges and universities (with a terminal degree).