Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

The BA in Sociology at Southern Methodist University provides a foundation in sociological theory, social research methods and substantive areas of social life. Students take core courses that introduce classical and contemporary theories, social statistics and qualitative methods, then choose advanced seminars and electives to pursue areas such as inequality and stratification, race and ethnicity, gender, family, urban sociology, criminology, health and the sociology of education.

• Core topics: sociological theory, social research methods, statistics for social sciences.
• Methods and skills: quantitative analysis, qualitative interviewing and ethnography, survey design, data visualisation and critical reading of academic literature.
• Substantive electives: race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, social stratification, family and life course, urban communities, criminal justice, health and illness, organisations and work.
• Capstone and research: many students complete an empirical research project or senior seminar that integrates methods and theory; opportunities for independent study with faculty supervisors are available.
• Experiential learning: internships with community organisations, government agencies, research labs or media outlets; study abroad options for comparative and global perspectives.

Entry requirements

Admission to SMU is competitive and evaluated on the basis of a strong secondary-school record, recommendation letters, extracurricular engagement and academic potential. For the Sociology major, successful applicants typically demonstrate preparation in social studies and readiness for quantitative coursework. Suggested background includes coursework in social sciences, mathematics (algebra, precalculus or statistics) and strong writing experience.

• Academic preparation: competitive secondary-school transcript with college-preparatory coursework; evidence of ability in quantitative reasoning is advantageous.
• Standardised tests: SMU considers standardised test scores in the admission process according to its current policies; applicants should consult the university for up-to-date guidance.
• English language: applicants for whom English is not a first language should meet the university's English proficiency requirements through recognised tests or approved alternatives.
• Advanced standing: students with AP, IB or dual-enrolment credit should submit official scores/records for transfer credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Sociology degree from SMU go into a wide range of careers that value analytic thinking, research skills and an understanding of social systems. The degree prepares students for entry-level roles as research assistants, programme coordinators, policy analysts, community outreach specialists, human resources associates, case managers, and data-analytic positions in public and private sectors. Many alumni pursue graduate or professional study in sociology, public policy, social work, law, public health, business or education.

• Public sector: policy analysis, community development, criminal justice agencies.
• Nonprofit and advocacy: programme management, fundraising, outreach and evaluation.
• Private sector: market research, human resources, data analytics, consulting.
• Further study: MA/MS/PhD programmes in sociology and related disciplines; professional degrees such as JD, MPP or MSW.

Why study at Southern Methodist University

SMU’s Sociology programme is housed within the Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, offering students close faculty mentorship, small-class interaction and opportunities to engage in faculty-led research. Students benefit from SMU’s connections across the Dallas–Fort Worth region for internships and community partnerships, as well as university career services that help translate sociological training into workplace skills.

• Research and mentoring: opportunities to work directly with faculty on empirical projects and to present findings in undergraduate forums.
• Practical experience: access to internships with local government, nonprofit organisations and private research firms in a large metropolitan area.
• Support services: academic advising, writing support and career development resources tailored to social science majors.