Benedictine University

What you'll study

The sociology degree provides a foundation in core sociological ideas and hands-on training in social research. Early modules typically cover introductory sociology, social theory and social statistics, while intermediate and advanced courses explore research methods, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and ethical issues in social research.

• Core topics: Introduction to Sociology, Classical and Contemporary Social Theory, Research Methods in Sociology, Social Statistics
• Applied and specialised topics: Criminology, Race and Ethnicity, Gender and Society, Family and Intimate Relationships, Urban Sociology, Social Inequality, Deviance
• Skills and methods: Survey design, interviewing and ethnography, data analysis using statistical software, critical reading of social research, report writing and presentation
• Experience-based learning: Community-based practicum or internship, service-learning projects, and a senior capstone or research project that applies sociological theory and methods to a real-world problem

Entry requirements

Admission to the BA in Sociology is open to applicants who have completed a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical expectations include a satisfactory overall academic record and demonstrated readiness for university-level study in reading, writing and mathematics.

• Academic qualifications: Secondary school diploma or equivalent with transcripts showing consistent academic achievement. Specific course prerequisites are generally not required, but prior study in English and social studies is advantageous.
• Standardised tests: Benedictine evaluates applications holistically; submission of standardised test scores may be optional depending on current institutional policy.
• Other application elements: Personal statement or essay outlining interest in sociology, letters of recommendation may strengthen an application, and transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and course descriptions.

Career prospects

Graduates with a sociology degree acquire analytical, research and communication skills that are valued across many sectors. The programme prepares students for entry-level roles and for further study in several professional fields.

• Public and community services: Caseworker, community outreach coordinator, youth services, programme facilitator and roles in non-profit organisations
• Criminal justice and public safety: Probation or parole officer (often requiring additional certification), victim services, correctional support roles, positions in rehabilitative services
• Business and research: Human resources assistant, market research analyst, policy analyst, research assistant in academic or private-sector projects
• Further study: Graduates commonly progress to masters programmes in social work (MSW), public administration, criminology, sociology, or related professional degrees

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes, close faculty mentorship and an emphasis on community-engaged learning. The sociology programme is designed to integrate classroom theory with applied practicum opportunities through local partnerships, enabling students to gain supervised experience and build professional networks in the Chicago-area region.

• Faculty and mentorship: Faculty bring research and applied experience in areas such as inequality, family studies and criminology and often supervise undergraduate research and capstone projects.
• Experiential learning: Internships, service-learning and community partnerships are central, helping students translate sociological skills into workplace competencies.
• Student support: Academic advising, career services and writing support help students plan pathways to employment or graduate study, while campus life fosters leadership and civic engagement.