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Sociology

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Overview

As a sociology major at Saint Joseph's University, you will study social issues at both a local and global level to better understand the world around you. In the spirit of Jesuit education, you will teach others to make a difference by being individuals who are "with and for others."

What is a Sociology Major?

Within the sociology and criminal justice department at Saint Joseph’s University, most of our research and teachings are based in Philadelphia and the surrounding area. Join us as we ask and study a range of questions, including:

  • Why do so few of us live in racially diverse neighborhoods?
  • What social factors lead to domestic violence?
  • How do working-class students experience collegiate life at wealthy universities?
  • Can low-income Philadelphia residents feed their families healthy food on a SNAP budget?
  • How do the media and our environment shape our perceptions of body image?

Ways to Study Sociology

This program is available as a major and a minor. Many students often decide to double major or add minors to their studies. Common additional areas of study that students interested in sociology also pursue include:

  • Criminal Justice
  • Education
  • Health Studies
  • Political Science

What Can You Do With a Major in Sociology?

As a graduate, you will be prepared to pursue an impactful and fulfilling career in various fields, with these professional job options:

  • Counselor
  • Lawyer
  • Social worker
  • Teacher
  • Detective
  • Researcher
  • Professor
  • Advertiser
  • Health care administrator 

How Will Saint Joseph's University Prepare You for a Career in Sociology?

The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice understands the value of internship opportunities and supports you in finding internships. As a sociology major, you are able to co-author research papers with your professors.

Sociology majors are able to take part in a wide variety of service-learning opportunities, including:

Course Catalog Information

Related Programs

Criminal Justice

Saint Joseph’s University's criminal justice degree program will help cultivate a sense of honesty, fairness and integrity and prepare you for a productive and rewarding career dedicated to helping others. As a criminal justice major at Saint Joseph's University, you will explore an interdisciplinary perspective on crime and justice.

Philosophy

At Saint Joseph’s University, the philosophy program offers a creative and critical exploration of the meanings and values by which we live our lives. Students inquire, in a disciplined yet free and unrestricted manner, into matters, society, state and culture.

Political Science

The political science major at Saint Joseph’s University offers the opportunity to examine politics, government and the political process. This program is ideal for those interested in the study of power, behavior, compromise and relationships between political figures in a variety of different contexts.