Simmons University

What you'll study

The Sociology major combines core theoretical foundations, empirical research training and topical coursework that examines contemporary social issues. Early modules typically introduce sociological theory, social research methods and basic quantitative techniques. From there you can choose classes that cover areas such as social inequality and stratification, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, family and intimate life, urban sociology, criminology and the sociology of health and medicine.

Many students complete a series of research-focused courses that include hands-on projects: designing studies, analysing survey or qualitative data, and presenting findings. The curriculum often culminates in a senior capstone, practicum or senior honours project where students conduct independent research or a community-engaged placement with a local organisation.

• Foundations of Sociological Theory
• Social Research Methods (qualitative and quantitative)
• Statistics for the Social Sciences
• Race, Class and Inequality
• Gender and Sexuality in Society
• Urban and Community Studies
• Sociology of Health and Medicine
• Capstone/Independent Research or Practicum

Entry requirements

Simmons considers applicants holistically. Successful candidates typically demonstrate a strong high-school academic record, with coursework in humanities and social sciences and evidence of analytical reading and writing skills. Applicants are expected to submit a completed application, academic transcripts and a personal statement that explains their interest in sociology and how they will contribute to the Simmons community.

International applicants should present the equivalent of a U.S. secondary school diploma and, where applicable, proof of English language proficiency. Admissions may also take account of extracurricular experience, community involvement, work or internship experience, and letters of recommendation. Specific grade or test thresholds are not listed here; consult Simmons admissions materials for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Sociology build skills in critical thinking, research design, data analysis and written communication. These are directly applicable in a range of entry-level careers across public, private and non-profit sectors.

• Research assistant or data analyst roles in think tanks, research centres or market-research firms
• Community development, advocacy and programme coordination in non-profit organisations
• Policy and administrative roles in local and national government
• Human resources, organisational development and diversity, equity and inclusion work in corporate settings
• Work in criminal justice, youth services or social services (often combined with further professional training for licensed social work)
• Further academic study at graduate level in sociology, public policy, social work, public health or related fields

Why study at Simmons University

Simmons offers a small, student-centred undergraduate experience with strong mentoring from faculty who are active teachers and researchers. The university emphasises experiential learning: sociology majors benefit from practicum placements, community partnerships and internship pipelines across Boston, allowing students to apply classroom learning to real-world problems.

Located in a major academic and civic hub, Simmons students have access to a wide range of employers, research centres and cultural institutions for internships and collaborative projects. The school's advising and career-development services support sociology students in planning internships, graduate study and career pathways, while the college’s focus on leadership and civic engagement complements sociological training.