University of North Dakota

What you'll study

The Sociology programme at the University of North Dakota provides a broad foundation in sociological theory and research alongside opportunities for applied learning. Core areas include classical and contemporary social theory, research methods (statistical analysis and qualitative techniques), social stratification, race and ethnicity, gender and family, deviance and criminology, organisations and social institutions, and community and rural sociology.

• Research methods and statistics: coursework in survey design, data analysis, and interpretation using commonly used social-science software.
• Social theory: study of foundational and modern theoretical perspectives that explain social processes and institutions.
• Specialist topics: modules that may cover race and ethnicity, gender, health and society, urban and rural communities, crime and justice, and environmental sociology.
• Applied learning: fieldwork, internships, community-based research projects and a senior capstone or practicum that integrates theory and practice.
• Electives and methods labs: opportunities to take electives in related disciplines (political science, psychology, public health) and to participate in lab-based methodological training.

The programme typically offers flexibility to pursue a broad liberal-arts pathway (B.A.) or a more method-focused route (B.S.), and students are encouraged to undertake internships or research assistant roles with faculty to build practical skills.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of North Dakota generally requires a high-school diploma or recognised equivalent and academic preparation in college-preparatory subjects. Successful applicants typically demonstrate a solid academic record, competencies in reading and writing, and preparation in social studies. UND operates a holistic admissions process, so extracurricular involvement, leadership, community service and a personal statement can strengthen an application.

Transfer applicants should submit official college transcripts; credit evaluation determines progress toward the degree. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional alternatives. Specific departmental prerequisites are minimal, but introductory courses in sociology or statistics are useful preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a Sociology bachelor’s from UND move into a wide range of roles across public, private and nonprofit sectors. Common career paths include:

• Community development and social services work (case management, programme coordination)
• Research and data roles (research assistant, survey analyst, program evaluation)
• Criminal justice and corrections-related positions
• Human resources, training and organisational development
• Public policy, advocacy and government positions at local and state levels
• Further study in sociology, social work, public health, law or related graduate programmes

The programme’s emphasis on research skills, critical thinking and applied fieldwork helps graduates qualify for entry-level professional roles and provides solid preparation for postgraduate training.

Why study at University of North Dakota

UND’s Sociology programme is delivered within a liberal-arts environment that combines small-group instruction with opportunities for hands-on research and community engagement. Faculty members are active researchers and frequently collaborate with regional agencies, giving students access to applied projects and internship placements in Grand Forks and the surrounding region.

• Applied opportunities: community-based research, practicum placements and internships with local government, nonprofits and justice agencies.
• Undergraduate research: chances to work alongside faculty on funded projects and present at conferences or departmental symposia.
• Support services: academic advising, career services and resources to help students secure internships, jobs and graduate-school placement.
• Interdisciplinary options: easy access to related departments—public health, political science, criminology and business—to tailor a programme to career goals.

Overall, the University of North Dakota’s Sociology degree is suited to students who want both conceptual grounding in social analysis and practical experience that prepares them for a variety of professional or academic pathways.