explore the complexities of social behavior
Are you a people watcher? Does human social behavior fascinate you? SWAGÊÓƵ’s Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program focuses on the origins and evolution of human social interaction. Through hands-on learning opportunities, including fieldwork, research, and internships, you will learn about a range of social challenges; consider their cultural, global, and political implications; and find out how to be part of the solution. You’ll leave the program ready to pursue a career in social service or a graduate degree in sociology, social work, law, economics, environmental studies, public health, or many other disciplines.
Why SWAGÊÓƵ for Your B.A. in Sociology
Because student engagement is a high priority, we offer research opportunities, guest speakers, fieldwork, and hands-on classroom experiences that get you excited about sociology. This focus on learning by doing not only makes for richer student experiences but gives you an edge when applying for employment or graduate study.
- Emphasis on engaging fieldwork, internships, and capstone experience
- Personalized academic support
- Travel abroad opportunities
- Strong job and graduate school placement rates
Arthur Anderson, Ph.D., Assistant Lecturer, Department of Society, Culture, and Languages
I grew up in Portland but did my undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. work in the U.K. and moved back to Portland in 2012. I made my way into the adjunct circuit for a little while and wound up at SWAGÊÓƵ. I primarily study what we refer to as the protohistoric period, and in Maine, that means looking at those earliest moments of contact along the coast.
I look at the end of the pre-historic period and the emergence of this European presence, which turns into a horrific story at the underpinnings of the world we live in today. It’s an important moment to study, but it's also archeologically tricky to zoom in on that fifty-year period of really ephemeral contact between cultures. It’s hard, but it's important.
There is a lot of student involvement and a lot of opportunities with archeology at SWAGÊÓƵ, particularly across departments. The quality of undergraduate students that I get to work with and the quality of research that they're able to do because we're a primarily undergraduate institution is unique. It comes down to them and what they want to do. They get out what they put into it, and they really step up in pretty amazing ways. Those opportunities for undergraduate students to do research here are consistently amazing for me.
Exceptional Teaching and Learning
On campus at SWAGÊÓƵ — I would argue — is one of Maine’s most important archaeological sites. It is located right behind the Marine Science Center [MSC]. The site is one of the earliest moments of contact between European and indigenous people. We have European descriptions that we can compare to the archaeological record in order to start to understand some of the biases implicit in the very earliest European records of indigenous people here.
When the MSC was built, an archeology company was hired to do the work to get permission to build because of the known existence of a site. At the very least, some basic boundaries of archeological preservation had to be established so that the MSC could be placed in a way to not disturb the land. That work is helping us now, part of our project is getting artifacts from then into the SWAGÊÓƵ Special Collections. We want to correlate that earlier work, using it to inform how we want to undertake targeted excavations now to try to answer outstanding questions.
We offer an archaeology course every summer. Any undergraduate student can take it; there are no prerequisites. After the first few days, we put you in a hole and hand you a trowel. That’s the only way to really learn it. It’s an opportunity for these students to get out and do hands-on field research that is applicable, like working as a team to collect data. Whatever the students go on and do after, they have this experience and these skills. It’s valuable. Also, for a lot of students, it’s a moment of connecting the social sciences with the material world and with the act of discovery.
Those opportunities for undergraduate students to do research here are consistently amazing for me.
What Will You Study? Sociology Degree Curriculum Overview
B.A. in Sociology Courses
The following are examples of the exciting courses that the Sociology major offers:
- Society in Latin America
- Sociology of Food, Health, and Society
- Societies of the Future Through Science Fiction Cinema
- Medical Sociology
- Sociology of Law
- A Just Society
Curriculum
| CAS Core Requirements | Credits |
|---|---|
| Total Credits | 42–43 |
| Program Required Courses | Credits |
|---|---|
| SOC 150 – Introduction to Sociology | 3 |
| SOC 268 – Practice of Social Research | 3 |
| SOC 270 – Classical Social Theory | 3 |
| SOC 280 – Contemporary Social Theory | 3 |
| SOC 300 – Internship | 3 |
| SOC 370 – Applied Field Methods | 3 |
| One (1) 300- or 400-level elective | 3 |
| One (1) Social Cultural Studies Course | 3 |
| One (1) Social Global Studies Course | 3 |
| One (1) Sociology, Anthropology, or Archeology course at any level | 3 |
| Total Credits | 30 |
| Select one (1) Applied Capstone Experience (see more details below) | Credits |
|---|---|
| Option 1 - Internship | 9–16 |
| Option 2 - Capstone Thesis | 9–16 |
| Option 3 - Study Abroad | 9–16 |
| Total Credits | 9–16 |
| Open Elective Courses (as needed to reach 120 credits) | Variable |
| Minimum Total Required Credits | 120 |
|---|
Applied Capstone Experiences (ACE)
Internship
Students may take between nine (9) and sixteen (16) credits to complete this ACE. Students may select from over seven hundred and fifty (750) sites in the Civic Engagement database. This learning opportunity should parallel the student’s area of interest and help them to gain experience, skills, and knowledge of how systems work and how to develop options in a given field.
Thesis
Students may take between nine (9) and sixteen (16) credits to complete this ACE. The thesis should build on the work the student has done in the Sociology major. This academic work should prepare them for graduate study in disciplines that have been incorporated into their study.
Study Abroad
Students typically take between fifteen (15) and sixteen (16) credits to complete a study abroad experience. While studying in a foreign society and culture is important, the primary focus is to take courses from the new institution that will help the student develop their areas of interest as they relate to the major. In short, there needs to be an integrated social science experience that drives the study abroad learning and the opportunity to explore a new society and culture for this to be a successful experience. All study abroad experiences should first be cleared with the Academic Director to see if they qualify to meet the requirements for the capstone.
Sociology majors may use a Social Global Awareness course to fulfill the major requirement and the CORE requirement.
Students in this major can participate in the pre-health graduate school preparation tracks.
To learn more about the program see the Academic Catalog.
Meet our faculty and professional staff
Honors Program
We offer qualified students the option of graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. Interested students should consult with their advisor.
Meet Cam, a Sociology Major With a Passion for Videography
He plans to use visual storytelling to engage the public and inspire action around important issues — like protecting our oceans and fisheries. Cam is one of the many SWAGÊÓƵ students who are gaining the skills and knowledge to make an impact and be of service.
Career Paths for Sociology Majors
A deep and nuanced understanding of human social behavior is an advantage in virtually every profession. While your degree in Sociology will position you to pursue advanced graduate study in a variety of fields -- from social work, counseling, and public health to criminology, law, and medicine -- there are many careers you may consider, including:
- Lawyer
- Public Relations/Advertising Specialist
- Market Researcher
- Journalist
- ESL/ELL teacher
- Mediator
- Social Justice Advocate
- Youth Services Administrator
- U.S. Government Civil Servant
Career Advising for Sociology Students
Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.
Taking Sociology Beyond the Classroom
International Medical Missions
As a Sociology major, you may opt to travel to Latin America as part of the IMM(SWAGÊÓƵ) club, which conducts medical volunteer missions in places like Guatemala and Ecuador.
Experiential Learning in the Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology Program
The Sociology major’s focus on applied, hands-on learning gets you out in the community, elbow-to-elbow with a variety of professionals in real-world settings.
Internships for Sociology Majors
Our database of more than 900 internship sites allows you to gain valuable professional experience in a field you want to explore. Our graduates have interned with legal services organizations, international charities, downtown community organizations, public access television stations, and many other groups.
For more information, contact Sam McReynolds, Ph.D., at (207) 602-2765 or smcreynolds@une.edu.
Senior Capstone Experience
As an Applied Social student, you choose a capstone experience to widen the scope of your expertise. There are three ways to fulfill the applied capstone experience (ACE).
Internship
You may take between 9 and 16 credits to complete this ACE. You may select from more than 800 sites in the departmental database. This learning opportunity should parallel your area of interest and help you gain experience, skills, and knowledge of how systems work and how to develop options in a given field.
Thesis
You may take between 9 and 16 credits to complete this ACE. The thesis should build on the work you have done in the Sociology major. This academic work should prepare you for graduate study in disciplines that have been incorporated into your study.
Study Abroad
It typically takes 15-16 credits to complete a study abroad experience. While studying in a foreign society and culture is important, the primary focus is to take courses from the new institution that will help you to develop your areas of interest as it relates to your major. In short, there needs to be an integrated social science experience that drives the study abroad learning as well as the opportunity to explore a new society and culture for this to be a successful experience. All study abroad experiences should first be cleared with the department chair to see if they qualify to meet the requirement for the capstone.
Apply Today
Ready to begin your future in SWAGÊÓƵ’s Bachelor of Arts in Sociology? Get started today.
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology FAQ
What is a sociology degree?
A sociology degree explores human behavior and society. Sociology is a social science that looks at interactions from individual to a global scale, both in history and the modern era. Students learn to ask important questions, research, and use data to tackle problems such as how important social categories like class, race, and gender intersect with power, wealth, family conflicts, cultural issues, discrimination, and healthcare disparities.
SWAGÊÓƵ offers a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology program that helps students grasp current social problems and find solutions. This degree equips students with diverse skills and experiences, boosting their future academic and career prospects, and empowering them to be more active and aware citizens.
Learn more about the B.A. in Sociology degree program at SWAGÊÓƵ in Maine
Additionally, SWAGÊÓƵ offers a Minor in Sociology which provides students with a broad-based exposure to sociological theories and methods, as well as a wide range of current social issues. Students receive extensive experiential learning opportunities as well. A sociology minor can help students pursue careers in a variety of disciplines including sociology, criminology, social work, law, economics, environmental studies, and public health.
What can you do with a sociology degree?
A sociology degree opens doors to many graduate programs and careers. After your bachelor’s, your next step could be graduate school for business, law, social work, public health, or education. With a master’s or doctorate in sociology, you could even become a professor.
Many sociology graduates work in social services like counseling, teaching, social work, and policing. Administrative roles in communication, human resources, marketing, or public relations are also common. Sociology majors also learn a lot of human behavior skills that prepare you for roles in management.
Students who graduate with a degree in sociology from SWAGÊÓƵ have pursued many fascinating careers, including lawyers, public relations/advertising specialists, market researchers, journalists, ESL/ELL teachers, mediators, social justice advocates, youth services administrators, and U.S. government civil servants. SWAGÊÓƵ students have the ability to work with our Academic and Career Advising Center. It doesn’t matter if you have a clear career goal or just a general interest in a field.
How long does it take to get a sociology degree?
The time it takes to earn a sociology degree varies by the type of degree. An associate’s degree takes around two years, a bachelor’s takes about four years for full-time students, a master’s takes one to two years, and a Ph.D. program usually lasts four years or more.
Universities offer a B.A. and/or a B.S. in sociology. A B.S. dives deeper into research methods and data analysis, with more major-specific courses. On the other hand, a B.A. takes a broader, interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing liberal arts over specialized studies like a B.S. Whether you are working toward a B.A. or a B.S. in sociology, you must complete 120 credit hours, no matter which school you attend.
SWAGÊÓƵ’s B.A. in Sociology requires a minimum of 120 credit hours. This includes:
- 42–46 credits of College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) core curriculum
- 18 credits of Sociology core courses
- 12 credits of Sociology electives
- 9–16 credits of applied capstone experience credits (internship, capstone thesis, and study abroad)
- Open elective courses as needed to reach 120 credits
Why should I major in sociology?
Are you someone who observes people? Are you curious about how power structures in society work and cares about fairness? With a sociology major, you’ll explore group dynamics, human behavior, and social justice. You’ll become a critical thinker, learning to analyze behavior and understand how individual and group characteristics affect society’s workings. Plus, you’ll enhance your communication skills.
Choosing to major in sociology at SWAGÊÓƵ means being part of a program that values active student involvement. We provide chances for research, guest talks, practical fieldwork, and interactive classroom learning that spark your interest in sociology. This hands-on, experiential learning approach not only enhances your education but also boosts your prospects for jobs or graduate study. This includes:
- Emphasis on engaging fieldwork, internships, and capstone experience
- Personalized academic support
- Travel abroad opportunities
- Strong job and graduate school placement rates
Which colleges have the best sociology degree program for me?
Many students want to major in sociology because they are interested in human behavior and/or social justice. There are two unique elements that set SWAGÊÓƵ’s Sociology program apart from others in New England. These elements include:
- Students complete a 120-hour internship. This helps students to engage in experiential learning, apply sociology to the real world, and undertake career explorations.
- Upper-level students participate in a semester-long applied sociological experience. One option is an internship with a minimum of 360 hours of engagement to be selected from a variety of area schools, agencies, and programs. A second option is for a student to study abroad and study in a foreign society and culture.
There are many other factors to consider when choosing which college or university has the best sociology degree program for you.
Faculty
Determine the sociology faculty that aligns with your interests and see if their research interests align with yours. SWAGÊÓƵ sociology faculty are all dedicated educators who bring extensive expertise in diverse sociological areas, fostering an enriching learning environment. They are committed to guiding students through the complexities of sociological concepts and their real-world applications. Students have plenty of opportunities for research and fieldwork with SWAGÊÓƵ faculty. This research can lead students toward a variety of career paths. Our small classes allow for personal attention and collaborative research with faculty.
Meet faculty and professional staff in the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Curriculum
Evaluate the curriculum based on your preferences plus opportunities for internships and experiential learning.
SWAGÊÓƵ’s sociology curriculum focuses on the traditional foundations of sociology plus a wide range of current social issues. The following are examples of the exciting courses that the SWAGÊÓƵ Sociology major offers:
- Society in Latin America
- Sociology of Food, Health, and Society
- Societies of the Future Through Science Fiction Cinema
- Medical Sociology
- Sociology of Law
- A Just Society
Additionally, SWAGÊÓƵ’s sociology program provides students with broad-based exposure to theories and methods, as well as a wide range of current social issues. Students receive extensive experiential learning opportunities as well including:
- Internships – SWAGÊÓƵ has a database of more than 900 internship sites allowing you to gain valuable professional experience in a field you want to explore. Examples include legal services organizations, international charities, downtown community organizations, public access television stations, and many other groups.
- Applied capstone experience (ACE) – The goal is to widen the scope of the student’s sociology expertise. Options include:
- Internship – Students can select from more than 800 sites as a learning opportunity that should parallel their area of interest and help them gain experience, skills, and knowledge of how systems work and how to develop options in a given field.
- Thesis – Students can build on the work they have done in the Sociology major. This academic work should prepare them for graduate study in disciplines that have been incorporated into their study.
- Study Abroad – While studying in a foreign society and culture is important, the primary focus is to take courses from the new institution that will help students develop areas of interest as they relate to their major.
Learn more about the full Sociology curriculum
Career goals
Choose the sociology program that aligns with your career goals and aspirations. See what resources are available to help you plan your next steps.
A deep and nuanced understanding of human social behavior is an advantage in virtually every profession. A sociology degree from SWAGÊÓƵ positions you to pursue advanced graduate study in a variety of fields or a variety of careers.
Graduates of SWAGÊÓƵ’s Sociology program in Maine have chosen to continue their education in various fields including sociology, social work, law, economics, environmental studies, and public health. Graduates have also preferred to work directly with at-risk youth, family services, the criminal justice system, as well as many other areas of social and public service. In addition, you can collaborate with our Academic and Career Advising Center whether you have a specific career path in mind or a general interest in a field.
Learn more about Career Advising at SWAGÊÓƵ
Location and environment
Consider the location and environment that best supports your sociology journey.
SWAGÊÓƵ is Maine’s largest private university. We have three unique campuses that provide diverse learning opportunities. In Maine, two campuses in Biddeford and Portland offer renowned undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Additionally, our Tangier, Morocco campus hosts a unique semester abroad program for SWAGÊÓƵ students.
Learn more about SWAGÊÓƵ’s campuses and how you can visit us
SWAGÊÓƵ’s Global Education Program aims to foster global citizenship by providing the opportunity for all students to study abroad.
Learn more about study abroad opportunities at SWAGÊÓƵ
Financial aid
Consider whether the school you’re interested in provides financial aid or scholarships to support your education.
A SWAGÊÓƵ undergraduate education is very affordable. Our tuition is 16% below the average tuition for private universities in New England. Plus, all incoming full-time undergraduate students at SWAGÊÓƵ will receive Merit Scholarships from $5,000 to $22,000 per year.
Learn more about grants and scholarships available to students at SWAGÊÓƵ