Sociology Department
Sociology is the study of how individual experiences and behaviors are shaped by broader social forces. At Salisbury University, our sociology students gain the knowledge and skills to pursue careers across a wide range of fields. According to a recent alumni survey, graduates are working in areas such as criminology, social psychology, public administration, nonprofit organizations, social services and advocacy, gerontology, education, and marketing.
Through our coursework, students develop key competencies in critical thinking, cultural awareness, research, technological literacy, and a commitment to social justice. The department also fosters students’ ability to respect the dignity and inherent worth of all individuals while cultivating leadership for a more just and equitable society.
With a strong emphasis on sociological theory and research, the Sociology Department prepares students for graduate study as well as careers in government and policy, social services, business and marketing, law and criminal justice, healthcare, and beyond.
Mission Statement
The Sociology Department at Salisbury University empowers students to think deeply, question critically, and engage meaningfully with the world around them. Our mission is to foster curiosity about how societies function—and how individuals can create positive social change.
We are committed to providing a learning environment where diverse perspectives are valued and students are encouraged to challenge assumptions, analyze complex issues, and grow as scholars and community members. With faculty who are passionate about teaching and mentorship, we guide students in connecting classroom learning to real-world impact—locally, nationally, and globally.
Our goal is to inspire the next generation of changemakers who are ready to lead with empathy, integrity, and a clear understanding of the social forces shaping our time.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Develop Sociological Imagination
You’ll learn to see the big picture and develop the ability to understand how personal experiences are shaped by broader social forces like culture, institutions, and history. - Effectively Use Key Concepts in Sociology
You’ll use foundational concepts like socialization, social structures, power, and inequality to better understand human behavior and the world around you. - Understand Structural Inequalities
You’ll explore how systems of inequality—based on race, class, gender, sexuality, and more—impact people’s lives, and how we can work toward a more inclusive and just society. - Sociological Reasoning, Logic, and Research Methods
You’ll get hands-on experience using real sociological research methods, including interviews, surveys, and data analysis, to study people and communities. - Information Literacy
You’ll learn how to find and use credible data and research to dig into social issues, understand public debates, and get involved in your community. - Master Basic Sociological Concepts and Theories
You’ll gain tools to explain why things happen the way they do—whether it’s trends in pop culture, workplace dynamics, or global social movements
Our Academic Programs
The Sociology Department offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, providing students with a strong foundation for a wide range of careers and graduate study. In addition to the Sociology Major, students can choose from the following minors to complement their studies and deepen their understanding of social and cultural dynamics:
’As a faculty member at SU, I have the opportunity to pursue my main interest: teaching and interacting with students. My classes generally feature a good deal of student interaction, active participation, and discussion, which is made possible by SU’s relatively small class sizes.
Beyond the Classroom
Sociology at SU extends well beyond lectures and textbooks. The Sociology Front—our student-led organization—hosts regular events that explore how sociology shows up in current events, pop culture, and film. Be sure to check them out!
Many of our students apply what they learn by volunteering in the community, including with at-risk youth, the homeless, the elderly, domestic violence shelters and hotlines, afterschool programs, and tutoring initiatives.
Faculty actively engage in their own research and encourage students to enhance their academic experience through study abroad, internships (completed by 35% of majors), and independent study. The department also brings in guest speakers—from alumni to community leaders—to share how sociology plays a role in their work