What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how people interact within these contexts. Since human behavior is shaped by social factors, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious cults; from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the sociology of work to the sociology of sports. In fact, few fields have such broad scope and relevance for research, theory, and application of knowledge.

American Sociological Association

Many of our majors & minors secure jobs immediately after graduation.

They were able to secure that employment for at least two important reasons:

1. The benefit of Emory: Research shows that a liberal arts education provides students with important knowledge that employers in many fields and industries now seek: analytical skills, critical thinking, and writing ability. 
2. The benefit of Sociology: Our major does well in providing that valued type of knowledge by emphasizing research (analytical skills), theory (critical thinking) and the completion of multiple studies for classes (writing ability).

Sociology plays a prominent role in other majors on campus. For example, both the Media Studies Major and the Human Health Major have a notable sociology component: several of our courses count towards each major and some of our faculty are closely linked with each major as well. 

Two particular majors are especialy notable: