Sociology
Are you interested in learning about some of the most pressing social issues of the day, such as immigration, discrimination, economic and social inequality, demographic change, race and ethnic relations, and health and well-being? If so, our sociology program may be right for you. You can pursue a B.A. or B.S. degree in sociology or continue your learning by pursuing the accelerated bachelor's/graduate study plan, in which you receive a master's degree in sociology. The department offers graduate degrees at the master's and doctoral levels.
What to Expect
As a sociology major, you will explore complex issues of power, inequality, identity and conflict across a variety of different social groups and social institutions, such as schools, families and law enforcement. You will also learn to question common wisdoms, raise important questions, examine arguments, synthesize information, analyze data, make conclusions and present arguments supported by empirical research and sociological theory, both orally and in writing.
As part of your learning, you will be able to take advantage of outstanding facilities that include the Laboratory for Sociological Research, one of the largest facilities of its type in the world, and a statistics laboratory. You can also develop your own research project or collaborate with faculty members on a project and participate in department events, including guest speaker presentations and workshops.
Undergraduate Degree
B B.A. or B.S. in Sociology
The Department of Sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences offers a bachelor of arts and a bachelor of science in sociology. The sociology requirements are the same for each, but there are different requirements in mathematics, humanities and social sciences for each degree.
Here are a few of the typical courses you may take to fulfill bachelor's degree requirements:
- Sociological Research Methods
- Introduction to Social Inequality
- Race, Class, Gender and Sexuality
- Social Demography
- Sociology of Crime
- Sociology of Medicine and Health
Apply for Undergraduate Admission
Our Office of Undergraduate Admissions provides the most current information on the application process so you can check the requirements based on your current status and find university scholarships.
Graduate Degrees
The Department of Sociology in the College of Arts and Sciences also offers master's and doctoral degrees with an emphasis on research.
Graduate Director: Brent Simpson, 803-777-3123, bts@mailbox.sc.edu
Program Contact: Jim Campbell, 803-777-3679, JCAMP@mailbox.sc.edu
Application information for this degree is available through The Graduate School.
Graduate Director: Brent Simpson, 803-777-3123, bts@mailbox.sc.edu
Program Contact: Alicia Hope, 803-777-3679, AHOPE@mailbox.sc.edu
Application information for this degree is available through The Graduate School.
Apply to Graduate School
Learn more about The Graduate School, degree options and how to apply for admission to doctoral, master’s, certificate and combination degree programs at South Carolina.