Sociology

Julia Ericksen, Chair
709 Gladfelter Hall
215-204-7763
julia.ericksen@temple.edu

Anne Shlay, Undergraduate Chair
755 Gladfelter Hall
215-204-7931
anne.shlay@temple.edu

713 Gladfelter Hall
215-204-1494
www.temple.edu/sociology

Undergraduate majors can complete the general Major in Sociology or specialize in the Health Track in Sociology.  The sociology department offers three programs for non-majors: a minor in sociology, a minor in the sociology of health, and a certificate in health research. 

Sociology is the study of human behavior in the context of the groups, organizations, institutions, and societies in which it occurs.  The sociology department offers courses covering a wide range of topics, including: contemporary social issues, race and racism, sexuality and gender, health and health care, education, urban life, organizations, family, political life, law, international development and globalization.  The sociological perspective pays close attention to diversity in culture, values, and human experience.

Majoring in sociology prepares students for many careers and graduate programs by providing both a broad sociological perspective and specific research, statistical and analytic skills.  Students gain experience in fieldwork; interviewing; developing, administering and analyzing surveys; statistical analysis; and writing research reports.  Sociology provides an excellent background for students planning to begin their careers upon graduation as well as those planning to pursue graduate education.  Recent graduates have gone to work and graduate school in the areas of law, medicine, business, non-profits, community planning, social work, market research, and education.

Students who are interested in a career in the health field can pursue a special sociology major focused on health-related course work.  The Health Track in Sociology prepares students for graduate studies in leading medical, dental, nursing, public health, and physical and occupational therapy programs as well as graduate programs in sociology and related fields.  While acquiring the analytic and research skills of the general sociology major, those in the health track have opportunities to participate in specially-designed health internships while studying important issues surrounding health and health care.

Student Organizations

Sociology majors are invited to participate in the Sociology Undergraduate Majors and Minors Association (SUMMA), which hosts academic and social events throughout the year.  The department sponsors the Annual Student Research Conference in which students can present their work.

Awards

Awards available to sociology majors include the Othella Vaughn Award, Robert K. Merton Award, and the Sociology Prize.

Distinction in the Major

To receive Distinction in the Major, a student must have a minimum grade point average of 3.5 in all sociology courses and a minimum overall grade point average of 3.25.

Requirements for the Major

The major requires a minimum of eleven sociology courses, including a sequence of research methods courses, a sociological theory course, the writing capstone and six electives at various levels.

Requirements for the Health Track in Sociology

Requirements for the Minor in Sociology

The minor in sociology requires a minimum of six courses, including courses on diversity and health.  This program is not open to students majoring in sociology or the Health Track in Sociology.

Requirements for the Minor in the Sociology of Health

The minor in the sociology of health requires a minimum of six courses, including courses on diversity and health. This program is not open to Sociology majors or Health Track in Sociology majors.

Requirements for the Certificate in Health Research

The certificate in health research requires five courses, including a health-related sequence and research methods. This program is not open to Sociology majors or Health Track in Sociology majors.