Why Study Sociology?
Why do people behave the way they do in elevators, classrooms, and around town? What makes men and women different, and how much of that difference is learned rather than innate? How does the time period in which we are living influence our choices, actions, and beliefs?
Sociology is the analytical study of human groups and societies — how they develop, how they are structured, and how they function. Like human society itself, the field of sociology is extremely broad. Sociologists study the social world, from small groups of friends and families to formal organizations, to entire nations. We look at social relationships and interactions, power and conflict, structures that hold societies together, and how societies change.
Recent graduates are found in every occupation and profession. Some graduates pursue further training in professional schools of social work, business administration, law, public administration, and education. Graduate programs in sociology or related fields prepare students for academic careers.
Major in Sociology
The undergraduate program in sociology at the University of Oregon is designed to provide a broad understanding of human society for students in all fields as well as integrated and more advanced programs for sociology majors. It is also a popular choice for students in other fields who wish to double major or minor in an area of study that will enhance their understanding of society and the behavior of people.
Concentrations in the sociology major:
- Inequalities, Crime & Social Justice
- Environment, Health & Community
- Critical Thinking with Data
- Culture, Identities & Institutions
Minors in Sociology or Criminology
With 24 credits in the sociology minor, there is plenty of room to take sociology while completing many other academic programs.
Criminology students analyze how society defines criminal behavior, and consider the factors that lead to crime in order to successfully control it.
Minors in Sociology and Criminology
Honors in Sociology
Motivated students may participate in the Sociology Honors Program. Qualified students work closely with a faculty member and fellow honors students on a year-long research project of their own design.
Dive Deep into Social Issues
“The thing I appreciate most about majoring in sociology is learning about various social issues that I was unfamiliar with or had never heard about before. Many of these topics are not always addressed in the media, and taking courses that go in depth about them provides useful insight into how to begin to address these inequalities. I also really enjoyed the upper-division classes as they are typically a smaller size, which often leads to more extensive discussion and diverse views on major social issues.”
—Ethan Yin, sociology major, '24
Real-world Experience
Students can earn credits for internships, conduct research with faculty members, or become more involved in the department through the Peer Leaders Program.
What You Can Do with a Sociology Degree
Recent graduates are found in every occupation and profession. Some graduates pursue further training in professional schools of social work, business administration, law, public administration, and education. Graduate programs in sociology or related fields prepare students for academic careers.
Enhance Your Degree with a Minor
“Minoring in sociology has been a pivotal decision in my academic career; it has provided a firm and extensive foundation from which to base my interest in media studies. In my experience, the learning environment the sociology professors foster is unrivaled. Every raised hand is tended to with thoughtful consideration, making classrooms spaces of sincere deliberation. If you're an incoming undergrad considering a minor, the Sociology Department at the UO is sure to have the specialty, environment, and curriculum that take your studies to the next level.”
—Heidi Stevenson, sociology minor, '23
Advising and Academic Support
Schedule an appointment with a faculty or Tykeson advisor, find important department forms and get answers.
Departmental Advising and Support
Scholarships and Awards
Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Department of Sociology, the College of Arts and Sciences, and the university.
Explore Scholarships and Awards