University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

The Sociology major develops a foundation in sociological theory and empirical research while allowing students to explore specialised topics relevant to contemporary social life. Coursework combines core classes, methodological training and area electives to produce graduates able to analyse social problems and design evidence‑based interventions.

• Core theory: classical and contemporary sociological theory, perspectives on social structure, and the history of sociological thought.
• Research methods and statistics: qualitative methods (interviewing, ethnography), quantitative methods, social statistics, and research design—preparing students to conduct independent projects.
• Substantive areas: urban sociology, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, family, criminology and deviance, social stratification, work and labour, and social movements.
• Applied learning: community‑engaged courses, internship placements with local agencies, practicum options, and a senior seminar or capstone research project synthesising skills and knowledge.
• General education and electives: the programme is designed to integrate with the university’s general education requirements and offers electives that allow cross‑disciplinary study with criminal justice, public health, psychology, and political science.

Typical structure

Students complete introductory sociology and research methods in early years, advance to theory and statistics in the middle years, and undertake seminars, electives and a capstone or internship in the final year. The programme can be taken as a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science depending on elective choices and college requirements.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan–Flint’s undergraduate programmes generally requires a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent and submission of official transcripts. Applicants who have completed postsecondary study or hold transfer credit should submit college transcripts.

• Academic preparation: strong performance in humanities and social science subjects is recommended; prior coursework in mathematics or statistics is helpful for research methods classes.
• Standardised tests: the university’s admissions policy may consider standardised test scores where provided, but test submission policies can vary; check the institution’s current guidance when applying.
• Transfer students: transfer applicants should review credit‑transfer rules and speak with an academic advisor to map prior credits to the sociology major requirements.
• Additional materials: some applicants provide a personal statement or résumé highlighting relevant volunteer, work or community experience, which can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

A Sociology degree from UM–Flint prepares graduates for a wide range of entry‑level roles and for postgraduate study. Employers value the programme’s emphasis on critical thinking, data literacy and applied communication.

• Public sector and community work: roles in social services, community development, youth services, and local government.
• Non‑profit and advocacy: programme or case management, outreach, fundraising, and policy advocacy for charitable organisations and NGOs.
• Research and data roles: research assistantships, data analysis in social research firms, public health research support, and programme evaluation.
• Criminal justice and human services: positions in probation, rehabilitation services, victim support and related agencies.
• Business and HR: human resources, organisational development, customer relations and roles requiring strong interpersonal and analytical skills.
• Further study: many graduates progress to master’s degrees in sociology, social work, public policy, public health or related disciplines, or to professional training in law, education or counselling.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint offers a sociology programme grounded in an urban context with opportunities for community engagement across the Flint and Genesee County region. The campus emphasises small class sizes and accessible faculty mentorship, allowing students to receive personalised guidance on research and career planning.

• Local partnerships: strong connections with local government agencies, non‑profits and community organisations provide internships and practicum placements relevant to social research and service delivery.
• Applied focus: courses and capstone projects often involve community‑based research, enabling students to apply sociological methods to real‑world problems.
• Support services: career services, academic advising and research mentoring help students prepare for employment or postgraduate study.
• Interdisciplinary options: proximity to programmes in criminal justice, public health and urban studies encourages cross‑disciplinary learning for students wishing to tailor their degree to specific career aims.