CUNY(The City University of New York)

What you'll study

The programme covers core sociological theory and research methods alongside substantive topics that reflect New York City’s complex social landscape. Students typically begin with introductory courses in sociological thinking and social statistics, then progress to social theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and a sequence in applied sociology.

• Foundations: Introduction to Sociology; Classical and Contemporary Social Theory
• Research and Methods: Social Research Methods; Statistics for the Social Sciences; Qualitative Methods
• Substantive Areas: Race and Ethnicity; Gender and Sexuality; Urban Sociology; Family and Kinship; Crime and Deviance; Education and Society
• Applied and Experiential Learning: Community-based learning and practicum; internships with city agencies, non-profits or research centres
• Capstone and Electives: Senior seminar or honours thesis / capstone research project; electives available in public policy, social work foundations, demography, health and society, and related disciplines

The curriculum emphasises hands-on research training, including data collection, analysis and interpretation, and encourages interdisciplinary study with departments such as political science, public health and urban studies.

Entry requirements

CUNY bachelor’s programmes generally require a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants are evaluated on academic preparation in social studies, mathematics and written communication, along with the strength of their overall application.

• First-time freshmen: Completion of secondary education with a competitive academic record; many colleges in the system consider standardised test results where required, but policies vary by campus.
• Transfer students: College transfer applicants should present college-level credits and transcripts; transfer credit for introductory sociology and general education courses is commonly accepted.
• International students: Proof of secondary credentials equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma and demonstration of English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional pathways.
• Additional considerations: Many programmes welcome students with work or volunteer experience in community organisations; some campuses may require placement testing in mathematics or writing.

Career prospects

A sociology degree from CUNY prepares graduates for a wide range of entry-level roles and for advanced study. Typical career paths include work in public and community services, policy and advocacy, research, education and the criminal justice system.

• Community organiser, caseworker or programme coordinator at non-profit organisations
• Policy analyst or research assistant in government agencies, think tanks or civic organisations
• Market research or data analysis roles in the private sector, including social research firms
• Positions in human resources, community relations or diversity and inclusion teams
• Further study: many graduates go on to master’s degrees in sociology, public administration, social work, public health or law

Graduates benefit from CUNY’s location in New York City, where internships and partnerships provide pathways into employment across sectors.

Why study at CUNY(The City University of New York)

CUNY offers access to a large, diverse urban university system with multiple campuses that provide flexibility in course offerings, concentrations and locations across the city. Students benefit from faculty who conduct research on urban issues, inequality and public policy, and from practicum and internship links with municipal agencies, community organisations and cultural institutions.

• Urban advantage: Direct access to New York City as a living laboratory for urban sociology and diverse fieldwork opportunities.
• Applied learning: Strong emphasis on internships, community partnerships and opportunities to conduct original research.
• Support and affordability: Public university resources, advising and career services that help students transition to employment or postgraduate study.
• Interdisciplinary options: Easy cross-registration and collaboration with related programmes such as public policy, public health and criminal justice.

Overall, CUNY’s sociology programmes are designed to combine rigorous theory and methods training with practical experience and citywide professional connections.