What is Sociology?
Sociology is the scientific study of social life. Sociologists study the structure of societies as well as how they change, interact with one another, and impact the individuals within them. Sociologists study a broad array of topics including the family, organizations, inequalities by gender, class, race/ethnicity, and nativity, social, political, and religious movements, crime, health, and natural disasters, among others. They answer their questions using a variety of scientific research methods, including survey research, statistical analysis, ethnography, conversation analysis, and content analysis. The results of sociological investigations help develop new theories and inform social policies and programs.
What Skills do Sociology Majors Develop?
Sociology majors conduct research and analyze data; they practice critical thinking and develop evidence-based arguments; and they gain a global perspective. The sociology curriculum also teaches students interpersonal skills such as:
- Working in small groups
- Communicating skillfully
- Developing and using leadership skills
- Working with people from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds
- More examples: What you can do with your sociology major
Together, this proves to be valuable preparation for graduate study as well as a broad range of careers in business, education, research, and social services. For more information, see the undergraduate student resource section of the American Sociological Association’s website.
Sociology Major Requirements Checklist
Declaring a Sociology Major
If you are a student in the College of Letters and Science (L&S) and wish to declare a major in sociology, it is in your best interest to do so as soon as possible. If you are not currently in the College of Letters & Science, you will need to be admitted to L&S before you can declare.
- If you are in L&S, schedule an appointment with the undergraduate advisor Lyn Macgregor using this Starfish link. Please allow extra time as we will retrieve a current unofficial transcript and your DARS report for you prior to advising. During your meeting you will fill out an actual declaration. The meeting typically takes about 15 minutes.
- If you change your plans and decide not to major in Sociology, contact the undergraduate coordinator, Ted Babcock, and fill out a request to drop the major.
Academic Advising
Lyn Macgregor
Schedule an appointment on Starfish.
8128D Sewell Social Sciences
(608) 262-3572
lyn.macgregor@wisc.edu