Sociology

About the sociology major

Human beings are social animals. As a sociology major, you'll study what influences what people think, say, and do and how they're influenced by others. In sociology, you'll study the patterns of interaction between people in all sorts of settings: at work, play, home, and more. You'll learn systematic ways to examine how humans interact with their surroundings by studying families, criminals, and other sub-populations while learning about social problems, such as crime, poverty, racial inequality, and political change. The sociology major offers a wide variety of exciting courses so you can tailor your coursework to fit your educational and career goals.

Skills and abilities this major develops: problem solving, critical thinking, communication, and research (IU School of Liberal Arts, 2018).

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IU Indianapolis’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Service learning

We believe in our power and responsibility to help others. Each year, our students, faculty, and staff work to improve neighborhoods in Indianapolis and beyond through service learning courses, community-based research and service projects, and partnerships with local organizations. Join us if you want to make a difference.

Career services

The Office of Career Development prepares, supports, and advises students each step of their career paths—like finding internships and building your resume. They serve undergraduate students, graduate students, and alumni.

Study abroad

Choose among programs in over 50 countries and nearly 20 languages, including English. Both shorter and longer immersion programs are also available.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Families and society
  • Introduction to sociology statistics
  • Juvenile delinquency and society
  • Social psychology
  • Sociology of death and dying
  • Sociology of work
  • Women and health

Possible careers

  • Attorney*
  • Communications specialist
  • Community development
  • Human resources
  • Lobbyist
  • Marketing
  • Nonprofit program coordinator
  • Professor*

*These careers require additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • August Mack
  • Government agencies
  • Keep Indianapolis Beautiful
  • Keter Environmental
  • Profit and nonprofit businesses
Get your interest code

Where to get more information

IU School of Liberal Arts

(CA 303)

American Sociological Association

Society for the Study of Social Problems

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

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