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Sociology

Investigate how social behavior, relationships and institutions shape societies.

At Alma, we approach sociology as the study of humankind. We focus on how history, psychology and economics interact to affect people’s lives and behaviors. As a sociology major, you’ll:  

    • Explore how societies function and evolve. 
    • Weigh the impact of issues such as poverty, inequality and crime in local and global contexts. 
    • Examine how social order is maintained and how social conflict and change occur. 

At A Glance

  • 12:1
    Student-to-faculty ratio
  • 18
    Average class size

Possible Careers

Infant Mental Health Specialist
Amber R. Walker, LPC, IMH-E, 2005 | Community Healing Centers
School Social Worker
Amy Wood, 2018 | Melvindale-Northern Allen Park School District
Professor of Sociology
Kelley Hall, 1991 | DePauw University
Licensed Master Social Worker
Victoria Sheffer, LMSW, 2017 | Unity Counseling GR

Investigate how social behavior, relationships and institutions shape societies.

At Alma, we approach sociology as the study of humankind. We focus on how history, psychology and economics interact to affect people’s lives and behaviors. As a sociology major, you’ll:  

    • Explore how societies function and evolve. 
    • Weigh the impact of issues such as poverty, inequality and crime in local and global contexts. 
    • Examine how social order is maintained and how social conflict and change occur. 

Explore

Student & Alumni Spotlights

No one describes the Alma experience better than those living it. Explore their stores, in their own words, below.

My sociology degree prepared me for this role because I was taught to look at situations differently and be a bit more subjective in my thought than objective.  

Alissa Robinson, `97

My sociology degree prepared me for this role because I was taught to look at situations differently and be a bit more subjective in my thought than objective.  

Alissa Robinson, `97

Get to Know Sociology

Meet the Faculty

At Alma, you'll benefit from small classes and close faculty mentorship. Find out more about your professors.

Community Engagement

The Center for College and Community Engagement (3CE) offers students opportunities to engage and grow in partnership with the local community. Find out how you can get involved.

Explore the Curriculum

Learn more about the fundamental courses that will offer a roadmap for your academic growth and expertise development.

Probe what it means to be human in a complex and shared reality.

Sociology is a tool to widen your perspective and understanding of humanity. Through our core courses, you’ll learn to identify basic social institutions and master the fundamentals of social research.  

You’ll then select from a broad range of electives. Our faculty have expertise in many areas, including aging, gender, women’s health and family. As a sociology major, you design an academic pathway that reflects your interests, from class and conflict to race and ethnic relations.   

You can also complete a practicum, applying everything you’ve covered in the classroom in a hands-on setting such as an agency, school or business.  

What You Need to Know

The practice of sociology calls for both hard and soft skills, from data collection and analysis to communication and teamwork. As such, it lends itself to many different careers.  

Sociology graduates often train as social workers, counselors or case managers, supporting individuals and communities in need. Others pursue roles in data management, market research, policy analysis, human resources, community development, advocacy or nonprofit organizations. 

Have any questions?

Contact us today for more information on this program and more.

Sociology Chair

Deb Dougherty
(989) 463-7170
dougherty@alma.edu

Admissions

Admissions Office
800-321-ALMA
admissions@alma.edu