Florida International University

What you'll study

The Sociology programme provides a mix of theoretical foundations, quantitative and qualitative methods, and applied electives that examine family, race and ethnicity, gender, crime, urban life and social inequality. Core modules typically include Sociological Theory, Research Methods in Sociology, Social Statistics, and a Capstone or Senior Seminar where students complete a research project or practicum.

• Sociological Theory: classic and contemporary perspectives on social structure, agency and institutions.
• Research Methods: survey design, interviewing, ethnography and programme evaluation skills.
• Social Statistics: introduction to data analysis, hypothesis testing and interpretation of empirical results.
• Race, Ethnicity and Inequality: study of racialisation, immigration, and social stratification, with attention to Latin American and Caribbean contexts.
• Urban Sociology and Community Studies: urbanisation, community change and local policy responses, often drawing on Miami’s metropolitan setting.
• Criminology and Deviance (elective): causes of crime, criminal justice responses and rehabilitation policy.
• Gender and Family: family dynamics, gender inequalities and life course approaches.
• Internship/Practicum: placement opportunities with non-profit organisations, government agencies or research centres to apply classroom learning in practice.

Students can usually tailor their degree with electives, minors or concentrations (for example in social policy, criminology or global studies) and are encouraged to take part in undergraduate research, community-based learning and study abroad opportunities.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor’s in Sociology at Florida International University expects applicants to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Standard entry considerations include academic transcripts, a competitive cumulative grade average, and completion of college-preparatory coursework in English and mathematics.

• Domestic applicants: secondary school completion with a strong academic record and recommended coursework in English and maths; any university-wide admission tests or placement requirements are determined by the university and subject to change.
• International applicants: certified secondary credentials equivalent to U.S. high school completion and proof of English language proficiency (through recognised tests or institutional exemptions) where applicable.
• Transfer students: official college transcripts showing satisfactory performance in previous post-secondary coursework; some credit may be awarded for completed sociology and related courses.

Specific GPA thresholds, test expectations and supporting documents are set by the university admissions office and may vary; prospective students should consult official FIU admissions guidance for up-to-date requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Sociology develop analytical, research and communication skills valued across public, private and third-sector employers. Typical career paths include:

• Social research and data analysis roles in think-tanks, research centres or market research firms.
• Community development and programme coordination for non-profit organisations and NGOs.
• Positions in government and public policy, including policy analysis, public affairs and community outreach.
• Criminal justice and corrections roles, probation services and victim support agencies.
• Human resources, recruitment and corporate diversity or inclusion roles.
• Further academic study at graduate level (MA, MS, MPP, JD or PhD) for careers in academia, advanced research or specialised professional practice.

Internships, practicum placements and undergraduate research at FIU help build employable skills and local professional networks, particularly in the Miami metropolitan area and across regional institutions.

Why study at Florida International University

FIU is a large, research-active public university located in a highly diverse, multilingual urban region. The Sociology programme benefits from this context through faculty research on immigration, Latin American and Caribbean societies, urban inequality and applied community research.

• Location advantage: Miami’s multicultural population and dense network of civic organisations provide rich opportunities for fieldwork, internships and community engagement.
• Research and centres: students can connect with university research centres that focus on regional and international social issues, enhancing opportunities for collaborative projects.
• Undergraduate support: academic advising, internship offices and an active undergraduate research programme help students gain practical experience and prepare for careers or postgraduate study.
• Flexible pathways: the programme supports combinations with minors and electives across social sciences, public affairs and humanities to tailor study to specific career goals.

Overall, FIU’s Sociology degree is well-suited for students who want rigorous training in social analysis anchored in a dynamic urban and international setting.