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Sociology, B.A., B.S.

Format: Face To Face Credits: 120

Sociology investigates and analyzes social issues that range from intimate family relations to communities, institutions, and nations. We study people, systems, beliefs, behaviors, values, culture, and both the unity and divisions of race, class, gender, and identity. We look at individual issues, as well as how they all fit together.

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Available as a minor.

Program Overview

Students may earn either a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in sociology. The B.A. requires a third-semester proficiency in a foreign language, while the B.S. requires intermediate level statistics. A minor is also available.

A sociology degree also serves as a strong base for several graduate programs, including occupational therapy and social work.

Why Study Sociology at Grand Valley?

  • As a liberal arts school, the Grand Valley campus and community actively engages in social issues and service, which creates unique opportunities for sociology students.
  • The Sociology Club meets regularly throughout the academic year, engaging in fundraising; social, career, and graduate school planning activities; and providing a forum for discussing topics relevant to the discipline.
  • Act on Racism (AOR) is an anti-racism theater group founded in 2005. Members develop and participate in skits and dialogues about the history and persistence of racism in America. The group performs throughout the greater Grand Rapids area.
  • The Colloquium Speakers Series brings experts and community activists to campus to talk about important and controversial issues. Students and the wider GVSU community can join the discourse throughout the year as we talk about racism, sexism, gay and trans rights, the environment, and ways forward to a better future.

Location & Format

Undergraduate students in this major study at the Grand Valley Allendale Campus.

Format:
  • Face To Face

Coursework

Students take core courses in scientific methodology and theory and then choose from a wide variety of electives on topics such as:

  • Culture
  • Families
  • Gender and sexuality
  • Globalization
  • Race and ethnicity
  • Religion
  • Social class inequality
  • Social psychology

Career Options

Graduates are prepared for entry-level work in fields like:

  • Business management
  • Civil services
  • Corrections
  • Human resources
  • Nonprofit administration
  • Social services

Combined Degree Programs

This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.

You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.

Admission Requirements

Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.

Helpful Links

For More Information

Department of Sociology

gvsu.edu/soc-dept
2172 AuSable Hall
(616) 331-3730

Admissions Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

 

“I try to make myself available and make students at ease about coming into a professor's office and asking tough questions.”

JENNIFER STEWART, PH.D.
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, SOCIOLOGY