Salisbury University

What you'll study

The Sociology degree emphasises sociological theory, empirical research and applied practice. You will study core topics such as classical and contemporary sociological theory, social research methods, and statistics for social scientists. The curriculum typically covers specialised areas including social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, family, deviance and crime, urban and community sociology, and organisations and work.

Coursework balances conceptual study with hands-on research: students learn qualitative and quantitative methods, design and conduct original studies, and interpret social data. Many students complete a senior seminar or capstone project that brings together theory, methods and applied analysis. Elective options and fieldwork opportunities allow you to pursue interests such as forensic sociology, health and illness, immigration and migration studies, or environmental sociology.

• Introduction to Sociology
• Sociological Theory
• Research Methods in Sociology
• Social Statistics
• Race and Ethnicity
• Gender and Society
• Crime and Society / Criminology
• Family and Intimate Life
• Urban and Community Studies
• Senior Seminar or Capstone Project

Entry requirements

Salisbury University welcomes applicants who have completed secondary education or an equivalent qualification. Typical applicants present a strong record in social studies and writing; preparation in mathematics/statistics is recommended because of the programmes research and statistics components. Transfer applicants with relevant community college coursework are considered, and previous coursework in sociology, psychology or statistics will support an application.

International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic preparation and English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional evidence. Admission decisions take a holistic view of academic background, recommendations, personal statements and any relevant experience such as volunteer or work placements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Sociology from Salisbury University move into a wide range of entry-level roles in public, private and non-profit sectors. Common career paths include social and community services, case management, probation and corrections, juvenile services, policy analysis, programme coordination, market and social research, human resources, and advocacy work.

Many sociology graduates also use the degree as preparation for graduate study in sociology, social work, public administration, law, criminal justice or related disciplines. The programmes emphasis on research methods and data analysis is particularly helpful for roles that require evaluation, needs assessment and evidence-based decision-making.

Why study at Salisbury University

Salisbury University offers a sociological programme delivered in a close-knit campus environment where students can access faculty mentorship and applied learning opportunities. The department encourages undergraduate research, community-engaged learning and internships with local agencies across Maryland's Eastern Shore, giving students practical experience and professional networking opportunities.

Smaller class sizes allow for interactive seminars and personalised guidance on research projects and career planning. Academic advising and a range of campus support services help students prepare for employment or graduate study, while extracurricular clubs and local partnerships provide avenues to apply sociological knowledge in real-world settings.