University of Mary Washington

What you'll study

The Sociology major at the University of Mary Washington introduces students to sociological theory and social research methods while encouraging applied, community-focused work. Core study areas typically include introductory sociology, classical and contemporary sociological theory, and quantitative and qualitative research methods, including a course in statistics for the social sciences.

• Foundations: Introductory Sociology, Sociological Theory, Social Stratification
• Research and methods: Social Research Methods, Statistics for Social Scientists, Qualitative Methods, Research Design and Data Analysis
• Substantive areas: Race and Ethnicity, Gender and Society, Family, Deviance and Social Control, Urban and Community Sociology, Work and Organisations
• Capstone and applied learning: Senior seminar or capstone project, independent research (honours or directed study), community-based learning and internship placements with local agencies and nonprofits

Majors combine required core courses with elective options to pursue interests (for example, inequality, crime and justice, or globalisation). The programme emphasises writing, data literacy and hands-on research; students often complete an independent project or practicum under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Entry is at bachelor level and typically requires a secondary school completion credential or equivalent. Applicants should demonstrate strong preparation in reading, writing and critical thinking. Evidence of readiness for college-level quantitative work is recommended, as several required courses include statistical methods.

• Standard admission documents: secondary school transcripts or equivalent; international applicants will need recognised secondary credentials.
• Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts; credit for introductory sociology and quantitative courses may be awarded where appropriate.
• Some applicants may strengthen their application with a brief statement of purpose, relevant extracurricular experience, or examples of writing or research, though specific portfolio requirements vary by admission route.

Career prospects

A Sociology degree from the University of Mary Washington prepares graduates for a range of entry-level roles and for further study. Employers value the programme’s emphasis on research skills, written communication and understanding of social systems.

• Common early-career roles: caseworker or client advocate in social services, community outreach coordinator, research assistant, programme coordinator at nonprofits, human resources assistant, and roles in criminal justice or juvenile services.
• Private sector and applied roles: market research or data analysis assistant, policy aide, administrative roles in healthcare or education, and roles in diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Further study: many graduates progress to graduate programmes such as social work (MSW), public policy, sociology or related disciplines, as well as law or specialised professional training.

Why study at University of Mary Washington

The University of Mary Washington is a public liberal arts university that focuses on undergraduate education, offering small class sizes and close faculty mentorship. Sociology students benefit from this campus culture through accessible faculty-led research, opportunities for independent projects, and courses that integrate community engagement in the Fredericksburg region.

• Experiential learning: internships and community-based courses connected to local government, social service agencies and nonprofits.
• Undergraduate research: chances to design and conduct original research with faculty supervision, suitable preparation for honours work or graduate study.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: students can combine sociology with minors or electives in fields such as political science, psychology, criminal justice, public health or environmental studies.

Together, these features make UMW’s Sociology programme a strong choice for students seeking both theoretical grounding and practical experience in understanding and addressing social issues.