Sociology
Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science (B.A., B.S.)
Undergraduate Major
Allendale • Face to face • 120 Credits
Sociology is the scientific study of society, social relationships, and the interactions between individuals and groups.
Overview
The major provides a comprehensive education in sociology, examining social issues ranging from intimate family relations to broader societal institutions and global interactions. Students explore the dynamics of race, class, gender, and identity, gaining a nuanced understanding of how these factors shape human experiences and societal development.
You will take core courses in social problems, race and ethnicity, and social class inequality. These courses provide a solid foundation in sociological principles, while elective courses in social theory allow students to tailor their education to their interests. Additionally, hands-on experiences through internships and research projects enable students to apply their learning in real-world settings and develop practical skills.
Pursuing sociology at Grand Valley State University offers interdisciplinary learning and community engagement, ensuring you are well-prepared for a successful career in social services, education, public policy, and beyond. With access to experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a supportive academic environment, you are equipped to make meaningful contributions to society and address complex social issues.
Department of Sociology
gvsu.edu/sociology
2172
AuSable Hall
(616) 331-3730
Admissions and Recruitment Office
Career Opportunities
Counsel and advise individuals and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health, with an emphasis on prevention. May help individuals deal with a broad range of mental health issues, such as those associated with addictions and substance abuse; family, parenting, and marital problems; stress management; self-esteem; or aging.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 34,653.04 | 10% |
| $ 38,699.78 | 25% |
| $ 55,690.13 | 50% |
| $ 67,342.73 | 75% |
| $ 86,794.31 | 90% |
Assist other social and human service providers in providing client services in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation, or social work, including support for families. May assist clients in identifying and obtaining available benefits and social and community services. May assist social workers with developing, organizing, and conducting programs to prevent and resolve problems relevant to substance abuse, human relationships, rehabilitation, or dependent care.
Top skills- Speaking
- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Service Orientation
- Reading Comprehension
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 28,396.35 | 10% |
| $ 32,441.75 | 25% |
| $ 36,320.46 | 50% |
| $ 44,257.94 | 75% |
| $ 51,685.48 | 90% |
Plan, direct, or coordinate the activities of a social service program or community outreach organization. Oversee the program or organization's budget and policies regarding participant involvement, program requirements, and benefits. Work may involve directing social workers, counselors, or probation officers.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Service Orientation
- Management of Personnel Resources
- Active Listening
- Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 46,052.59 | 10% |
| $ 58,199.93 | 25% |
| $ 77,740.98 | 50% |
| $ 94,516.51 | 75% |
| $115,883.60 | 90% |
Promote health within a community by assisting individuals to adopt healthy behaviors. Serve as an advocate for the health needs of individuals by assisting community residents in effectively communicating with healthcare providers or social service agencies. Act as liaison or advocate and implement programs that promote, maintain, and improve individual and overall community health. May deliver health-related preventive services such as blood pressure, glaucoma, and hearing screenings. May collect data to help identify community health needs.
Top skills- Social Perceptiveness
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Writing
- Reading Comprehension
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 34,817.07 | 10% |
| $ 37,176.12 | 25% |
| $ 45,763.64 | 50% |
| $ 53,363.30 | 75% |
| $ 69,858.97 | 90% |
Assist social scientists in laboratory, survey, and other social science research. May help prepare findings for publication and assist in laboratory analysis, quality control, or data management.
Top skills- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
Earnings statistics
| Annual Earnings | Percentile |
|---|---|
| $ 38,640.32 | 10% |
| $ 43,610.52 | 25% |
| $ 51,490.54 | 50% |
| $ 62,020.56 | 75% |
| $ 65,367.99 | 90% |
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Students Participated in Experiential Learning
Scholarships
Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based
scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are
available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.
Grand Valley offers myScholarships
(a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match
with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities.
myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you
to scholarships for which you might qualify.
Student Organizations
Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:
Career Advising
Whether you are a first-year student, a transfer student, or a current student thinking about your career options, advising is an important part of your academic journey.
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