Program Overview

A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in sociology are offered. The B.A. requires third-semester proficiency in a foreign language, while the B.S. requires intermediate-level statistics. A minor is also available.

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

Why Study Sociology at Grand Valley?

• The Sociology Department is a community of critical scholars who analyze the context of social interaction and the construction of difference in society. Faculty members utilize qualitative and quantitative methods to develop insight on a wide range of substantive areas.
• Campus and community members are actively engaged 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 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, performing throughout the greater Grand Rapids area.
• The Colloquium Speakers Series brings experts and community activists on campus to talk about important and controversial issues. Students and the GVSU community join the discourse throughout the year to discuss racism, sexism, gay and trans rights, the environment, and ways to a better future.