Sociology Major
Program Overview
What is a sociology degree?
Studying patterns of behaviors in societies is the first step toward understanding individuals’ choices and opportunities. Why are some people marginalized while some are not? What are the power dynamics in diverse communities, and how can we help foster societies that not only coexist, but thrive?
Why study sociology at Furman?
Ponder big questions of social constructs in a small classroom setting. Reach beyond the classroom and analyze patterns of societal behavior in other countries through faculty-led foreign study. Artfully blending theoretical and research-oriented courses, the curriculum gives students a way to delve into the nuances of society and social institutions centered around race, class and gender/sexuality. Plan a visit to Furman’s beautiful campus or start your application today.
How will you learn?
A signature component of sociology at Furman is robust, research methods training that spans three semesters. Develop qualitative and quantitative research skills by collecting and analyzing your own data, then present your findings at a scholarly conference. Travel with faculty to Denmark to examine the science and culture of happiness or join a three-week May Experience course on campus to explore the intersection of broader social contexts and your own family history in “Family Tree Sociology.” Take your first steps by contacting admissions or reading more about how to apply.
Careers for sociology majors
Many of our sociology graduates further their education at top-ranked programs across the country. A sociology major provides you with skills – critical thinking, data collection and analysis, presentation and writing – for a wide array of career paths.
Some fields our graduates go into include:
- Medicine and health careers, hospital administration
- Law or criminal justice
- Nonprofit sphere
- Experience management (XM), User experience (UX)
- Economic development
- Research
- Social services
- Counseling
- Human resources
Featured sociology courses
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99%Students who conduct research
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63%Students who choose to double major
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45%Students who participate in study away
Our faculty
Claire Whitlinger
Sociology students usually conduct research in their fields of interest, and many double major and study away. A sociology major provides you with skills – critical thinking, data collection and analysis, presentation and writing – for a wide array of career paths spanning fields such as medicine, government and human services. Graduates find careers in health care as doctors and other medical practitioners, non-profit managers, economic development experts, researchers, social services and human resources administrators, among many other professions.
Studies have found that the average salary for sociology majors is approximately $42,000 per year. Top earners can earn $67,000 or more, according to ziprecruiter.com.
A B.A. in sociology in Furman is a four-year program.
