Sociology (B.A.)

Make An Impact On Society

Do you hope to become an advocate for change in the creation of a more just society?

Through the study of sociology at Seton Hill, you will learn to view societies as whole entities encompassing the entire range of social life, from families and community associations, to nation-states and international organizations. Sociology majors at Seton Hill are trained to use theoretical tools and research techniques, and learn to apply the results of their investigations in accordance with ethical principles to support the betterment of society.

Choose Your Specialization

As a sociology major at Seton Hill, you will receive a strong foundation in the field. You create a degree that supports your personal interests and career goals by choosing an area of specialization. Specializations include:

Diversity & Inclusion (including study of anthropology of tribal cultures, Latinos in the U.S., genocides, law and society)
Gender & Sexuality Studies (including study of marriages and families, gender-based violence, gender and women's studies, psychology of sex and gender)
General Sociology (including study of contemporary topics, health and society, anthropology of tribal cultures)
Medical Sociology (including study of health and society, aging and old age, environment and society, Latinos and medicine in the U.S.)
Truth & Information in the Digital Age (including study of social media impacts; advocacy media for social change; political science and propaganda; logic and argument; computer ethics and society; news, arts and sports writing)

Learning to Become a Force for Change

Seton Hill's Sociology Program has a special focus in peace and justice, with an emphasis on the positive impact of cultural diversity on societies at both the local and global levels. Here, you will benefit from a strong foundation in the liberal arts, coupled with fundamental learning in sociology, and immerse yourself in a variety of topics that include:

Human behavior from a sociological perspective
Leading classical and contemporary sociological theories
Environment and society
Historical and contemporary roles of racial, ethnic, class and gender differences globally and in American society
Quantitative and qualitative research methods
Latinos in the U.S.
The American Sociological Society (ASA) code of ethics, and how they are applied to case studies that professionals typically confront
Contemporary problems and possible solutions that are consistent with the goal of creating a more just and equitable world

Sociology as Part of a Double Major

The sociology degree complements many other majors. Students interested in psychology, business, social work, computer science, criminal justice and the health sciences find that study in sociology broadens their understanding of their chosen field, and enhances their career options.

Study Abroad

Begin your career as a scholar and a professional - on an international level. During our January and May terms, Seton Hill students have the opportunity to travel around the world (and to all parts of the U.S.) to participate in courses and earn credits that count towards their degree.

Opportunities for sociology majors include planned trips to Israel and Ybor City, Florida. Our Study Abroad Office will assist you if you're interested in making plans to study abroad independently, at a partner university in another country or through programs offered by other universities or outside services.

Your Career

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, career opportunities for sociologists are expected to grow faster than the average through 2028. While most jobs in sociology require a master’s degree, the median pay in 2020 was over $86,000 per year. Seton Hill University's award-winning Career and Professional Development Center will work with you to find meaningful professional experiences, create your resumé and prepare for your future career or graduate school. Seton Hill Sociology Program graduates are prepared to go on to graduate school, and to careers as:

sociologists
teachers
policy analysts
demographers
survey researchers
statisticians
college professors
criminologists
researchers

Field & Research Experience

All sociology majors at Seton Hill complete at least one internship in the field before graduation. Your internship will be designed to further your career goals, and to promote community engagement as you advocate for social change. You will also have the opportunity to initiate research projects and to participate in faculty research.

Blackburn Center

Seton Hill has a longstanding partnership with the Blackburn Center in Greensburg. Students in the Sociology Program often have the opportunity to intern at the Center. You can also become involved in many of the joint events and programs sponsored by the Center and Seton Hill, including Setonians Advocating for Gender Equity (SAGE).

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Considering a Minor?

Students in the Sociology Program are encouraged to consider a minor in Gender & Women's Studies, Environmental Studies or Genocide & Holocaust Studies. Seton Hill also offers a minor in sociology.

Ready to Take Your Next Step Forward?

You can apply online for free any time. If you haven't been to visit us yet, please schedule a time to come up to the Hill. You just may see your future from here.

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