Eastern Mennonite University

What you'll study

The sociology curriculum combines core sociological theory and methods with applied courses that explore how social institutions, identities and inequalities shape everyday life. Students develop skills in qualitative and quantitative research, critical analysis, and community‑based practice.

• Foundations: Introduction to Sociology, Social Theory, Classical and Contemporary Theory covering thinkers and frameworks used to analyse societies.
• Research & Methods: Social Research Methods, Statistics for the Social Sciences, Qualitative Methods (interviewing, ethnography) and a course in research design and ethics.
• Key substantive areas: Race and Ethnicity, Gender and Sexuality, Social Stratification, Family and Intimate Life, Crime and Deviance, Urban and Rural Community Studies.
• Applied and experiential learning: Community‑based learning courses, practicum or internship placements with local NGOs, schools, courts or social service agencies; service‑learning integrated into coursework.
• Capstone: Senior seminar and capstone project involving independent research, program evaluation or community partnership work presented to faculty and external partners.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: Opportunities to combine sociology with peace and justice studies, environmental studies, public health, or business courses depending on interests.

Entry requirements

Eastern Mennonite University seeks applicants who demonstrate academic readiness, a capacity for critical thinking and an interest in community engagement. Admissions requirements for the Bachelor's in Sociology typically include:

• Completion of a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. International qualifications are considered in line with university admissions policies.
• A record of academic coursework in English and social sciences is preferred; strong performance in writing‑intensive courses is advantageous.
• A personal statement outlining interest in sociology and examples of community or leadership involvement.
• Academic references or school transcripts. Standardised tests may be optional or considered according to the university's current admissions practices.
• Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts; credit for prior study or experiential learning is assessed individually.

Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English proficiency requirements as set out by the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates of the BA in Sociology enter a wide range of professional roles and further study. The programme emphasises both analytic and practical skills that employers value.

• Social and community services: caseworker, community outreach coordinator, programme manager in non‑profit organisations and faith‑based agencies.
• Government and policy: roles in local or state government, policy research, planning and community development.
• Research and data roles: research assistant, survey analyst, programme evaluator in academic, private or public sector settings.
• Education and youth work: school support roles, youth programme leadership, and pathways into teaching with further certification.
• Human resources and organisational roles: recruitment, diversity and inclusion work, training and development.
• Further study: graduates frequently pursue master’s degrees in sociology, social work, public policy, peace and conflict studies or related disciplines.

Why study at Eastern Mennonite University

Eastern Mennonite University offers a close‑knit liberal arts environment where sociology students benefit from small class sizes, faculty mentorship and opportunities for engaged learning. The university's longstanding focus on peacebuilding, social justice and community engagement complements sociological study and provides unique experiential opportunities.

• Community engagement: Strong ties with local service organisations and a culture of service allow students to apply sociological knowledge through internships, practicum placements and service‑learning projects.
• Peace and justice emphasis: Access to campus initiatives and events related to peacebuilding and restorative practices enriches coursework and offers paths into conflict transformation work.
• Undergraduate support: Faculty advisers support independent research and capstone projects; students have access to mentoring and collaborative research opportunities.
• Interdisciplinary pathways: The programme encourages combining sociology with minors or courses in allied fields such as environmental studies, public health, business or education to tailor career preparation.