University of Tennessee

What you'll study

The Sociology degree is a four-year undergraduate programme that develops students' understanding of social life through core courses in sociological theory and research methods alongside topical electives. You will study how social structures shape individual and group behaviour, and learn to analyse data and interpret social processes using both quantitative and qualitative approaches.

• Core modules: Introduction to Sociology, Classical and Contemporary Social Theory, Social Research Methods, Quantitative Analysis/Statistics for Social Scientists.
• Topical courses and electives: Race and Ethnicity, Gender and Society, Family and Intimate Relations, Social Stratification, Deviance and Crime, Urban and Community Sociology, Work and Organisations, Sociology of Education, Population and Society.
• Applied and experiential learning: Internship or field practicum with community organisations or government agencies, service-learning courses, and opportunities for community-based research.
• Capstone and independent study: Senior seminar, practicum or a supervised research project/thesis that integrates theory and methods and prepares students for professional roles or graduate study.
• Complementary skills: Coursework emphasises critical thinking, research design, data analysis, academic writing and oral presentation. Many students combine sociology with minors or double majors in fields such as criminology, public policy, psychology, social work, or statistics.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong academic record. Typical preparation includes coursework in social studies, English and mathematics. Admissions decisions consider overall GPA, the strength of the high school programme, letters of recommendation and personal statements or essays.

• Standardised tests may be optional depending on the applicant's circumstances; consult the university's admissions guidance for current policies.
• International applicants must demonstrate equivalent secondary qualifications and proficiency in English; this is normally shown through recognised English language tests or approved alternative evidence of language ability.
• Transfer students should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework in sociology and related fields; specific credit transfer policies are available from the department and registrar.

Career prospects

Graduates with a sociology degree from the University of Tennessee enter a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. The programme prepares students to apply social-analytic skills across different contexts.

• Common career paths: social and community services, policy analysis, research assistant or data analyst roles, human resources, non-profit management, advocacy and programme coordination, juvenile and criminal justice services, and roles in education and outreach.
• Further study: Many graduates continue to master's or professional programmes in sociology, social work, public administration, law, or public health, where sociological training is a strong foundation for advanced research and practice.
• Skills employers value: ability to design and conduct research, interpret quantitative and qualitative data, communicate complex ideas clearly, and understand social and organisational dynamics.

Why study at University of Tennessee

The University of Tennessee's Sociology programme is housed within a research-active College of Arts and Sciences and offers access to faculty whose research covers a broad range of contemporary social issues. Small-class instruction at the upper level and opportunities for undergraduate research let students work closely with faculty mentors.

• Applied opportunities: strong links with local government, community organisations and social service agencies in Knoxville and the region provide internship and practicum placements.
• Research and resources: students can participate in faculty-led projects, use campus research facilities and take advantage of workshops in data analysis and research methods.
• Student support and development: advising, career services and extracurricular student organisations help students plan careers, secure internships and prepare for graduate study.
• Broader experience: the campus environment, regional partnerships and options for study abroad enable students to broaden their perspectives and gain practical experience relevant to sociological work.