Susquehanna University

What you'll study

The Sociology curriculum combines core theoretical perspectives with training in social research methods and opportunities for applied learning. You will study foundational topics such as social theory, classical and contemporary perspectives, and the sociology of institutions, alongside specialised courses that explore ethnicity and race, gender and sexuality, family, crime and deviance, urban and community studies, education, and health and society.

Research methods and quantitative skills are emphasised: expect courses in social research methods, statistics for the social sciences, and a practicum or lab component where you design and analyse empirical projects. The programme typically culminates in a senior seminar or capstone project in which students complete an original research paper, internship report or community-based project under faculty supervision.

• Introduction to Sociology
• Social Theory (classical and contemporary)
• Social Research Methods
• Statistics for the Social Sciences
• Race, Ethnicity and Inequality
• Gender and Sexuality
• Sociology of Family
• Criminology and Deviance
• Urban and Community Studies
• Health, Illness and Society
• Internship/Field Experience
• Senior Seminar / Capstone Project

Structure and learning experiences

As a liberal arts programme, sociology at Susquehanna is delivered in small, discussion-focused classes that encourage close interaction with faculty. Learning combines lectures, seminars, hands-on research, data analysis workshops and community-engaged projects. Students are encouraged to pursue independent study, honours research where available, and to take advantage of study abroad options to broaden comparative perspectives.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high-school diploma or equivalent with a pattern of study that shows readiness for college-level work. Strong performance in English and social studies is helpful; coursework in mathematics or statistics is recommended to prepare for quantitative components of the programme. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Standardised test submission policies may be optional — check the university's admissions guidance for current practice.

Transfer applicants should present college transcripts and a record of completed coursework comparable to the university's general education expectations. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through accepted tests or other institutional pathways.

Career prospects

A Sociology degree provides skills in critical thinking, research design, data analysis, communication and understanding of social institutions — attributes valued across sectors. Graduates commonly pursue careers in:

• Social and community services, casework and programme coordination
• Public policy, government agencies and advocacy organisations
• Non-profit management and programme development
• Market research, data analysis and survey research
• Human resources, organisational development and diversity work
• Education, youth services and criminal justice roles
• Progression to graduate study in sociology, social work, public administration, law, public health or related fields

Internships and the university's career services help students translate classroom learning into practical experience and professional networks.

Why study at Susquehanna University

Susquehanna offers a liberal arts environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, allowing sociology students to undertake substantial independent research and receive individualized guidance. The department emphasises experiential learning through internships, community-engaged projects and opportunities to present research.

The university supports undergraduate research with accessible faculty collaboration, research methods training, and resources for conference travel and honours projects. Students benefit from a career development office that helps secure internships and post-graduate placements, and from a network of alumni working in public service, non-profits, education and research. Study abroad and cross-disciplinary electives further enable students to frame sociological questions in global and interdisciplinary contexts.