Sociology and anthropology involve the systematic study of social life and culture in order to understand the causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists and anthropologists study the structure and processes of nonindustrialized and industrialized societies in the United States and around the world. They examine how culture, social structures (groups, organizations, and communities) and social institutions (family, education, religion, etc.) affect human attitudes, actions, and life-chances. Sociology and anthropology combine scientific and humanistic perspectives.

Drawing upon various theoretical perspectives, sociologists and anthropologists study such areas as culture, socialization, crime, deviance, inequality, health and illness, family patterns, law, social change and race, and ethnic relations. Combining theoretical perspectives with empirical research allows students an opportunity to develop new insights into their own lives as well as the forces that shape everyday life in society.

The sociology/anthropology curriculum prepares the student for both academic and applied research careers. It offers an essential liberal arts background for many careers and professions, including public service and administration, communications and public relations, law, business, medicine, journalism, arts management, environmental science, and other professions. The department offers both a major and minor in sociology and anthropology. Our faculty are also centrally involved in the Colleges programs in Black Studies, Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies, Environmental Studies, and International Studies. Most courses count for one or more of the C21 requirements.

The theoretical and methodological courses in the curriculum provide intensive instruction in the application of sociological and anthropological theory and methodology. The theoretical courses provide an intensive examination of the various sociological and anthropological perspectives on human social behavior and on the social systems we create. They evaluate the different ways these perspectives gather and use evidence to make inference about the world in which we live. The department also offers extensive instruction and experience in research design and methodology including courses in quantitative research methods, qualitative and survey methodologies, social statistics, and computer approaches in social research.

The department offers many other opportunities for interested students to engage in research and practice outside of the classroom. The field study and internship programs provide opportunities for application of the theoretical and methodological principles learned in the classroom. These programs encourage students to explore careers that may interest them and gain valuable experience toward employment after college.

The grade point average for coursework comprising the major or minor, must be no less than 2.00 with no course grade below C-.