University of Memphis

What you'll study

The Sociology programme combines foundational theory with applied methods to explore topics such as social inequality, race and ethnicity, family, crime and deviance, urban sociology, and the sociology of work. You will take core courses in sociological theory and research methods, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, before choosing electives that align with your interests.

• Core modules: Introduction to Sociology, Sociological Theory, Research Methods in Sociology, Statistics for Social Scientists.
• Common topic modules: Race and Ethnicity, Sociology of the Family, Crime and Deviance, Urban Sociology, Social Stratification, Sociology of Work and Organizations.
• Research and capstone: Many students complete a senior seminar, independent research project or practicum internship that provides hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, or community engagement.
• Skills developed: critical thinking, social research design, statistical and qualitative analysis, written and oral communication, and applied problem-solving in social contexts.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Memphis undergraduate programme requires a completed secondary school credential equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Applicants are expected to have a broad high-school education with coursework in writing and social studies. Standardised test submission (SAT or ACT) may be optional or recommended depending on current institutional policy, so check the university admissions pages for the latest requirements.

Transfer applicants should have a record of college-level coursework with satisfactory grades. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved test or prior education in English if required by the university.

Career prospects

A degree in Sociology prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that involve understanding people, institutions and data. Typical career paths include:

• Social services and case management roles in non-profit organisations, community agencies or family support services.
• Human resources, recruitment and organisational development in public and private sectors.
• Criminal justice and corrections positions, as well as roles in victim advocacy and rehabilitation programmes.
• Research and data-analyst positions in market research firms, public policy organisations, or university research centres.
• Public policy, community development and programme coordination in local or state government.
• Further study: many graduates progress to graduate programmes in sociology, social work (MSW), public administration, law, or related social science fields.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a Sociology programme grounded in both theory and applied experience, with opportunities for internships and community-engaged research in an urban setting. Its location provides access to diverse social institutions and partner organisations for practicum placements and fieldwork. Students benefit from faculty who teach research methods and supervise student projects, as well as from campus resources such as career services and writing support to help transition into employment or graduate study.