Sociology is the systematic study of the organization and condition of society. Using both empirical and conceptual tools, the discipline analyzes the behavior of groups and the workings of social institutions. Sociology is empirical in the sense that most sociologists gather facts, but facts do not speak for themselves. Uncovering the underlying patterns that make facts meaningful is the purpose of social theory. Sociology offers a coherent method by which social patterns can be brought to light and applied to the making of social policy decisions. The student sociologist learns to observe, measure, report, analyze, and draw conclusions about human social behavior in all its complexity.

A major in sociology is solid preparation not only for graduate study in the field but for careers in teaching, advertising, law, and administration. In both the public and private sectors, sociologists are called upon to collect data, analyze results, and generate new knowledge.

The department also offers the criminal justice major in conjunction with the University College program.

The Department of Sociology offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and minor in sociology. Students also have the option to undertake independent study under the close supervision of a faculty adviser.

Students with an interest in elementary education may pursue a complementary course of study through the Scholars Teacher Education Program (STEP), a unique, five-year combined bachelor's and master's program that integrates field-intensive programs with a strong foundation in the liberal arts and sciences

The dedicated faculty provides mentoring, advisement and support to students. Students who graduate with a GPA of 3.5 or higher will be granted honors in sociology. Each year the department recognizes graduating seniors with awards for academic excellence and also extends an invitation for students to join Alpha Kappa Delta, the national sociology honor society.

Students should refer to the Advisement Handbook for Sociology Majors (PDF 72KB) for additional information about courses, advisement and department policies.



Contact
For more information, please contact:

Sally Ridgeway
Co-Chair of Anthropology and Sociology
Chair of Sociology
Associate Professor
Blodgett Hall, Room 102

p - 516.877.4938
e - ridgeway@adelphi.edu

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