Montana State University

What you'll study

The programme combines core sociological theory and methods with applied electives that let you pursue interests such as inequality, crime and justice, family, race and ethnicity, gender, environment and community studies. You will take foundational courses in introductory sociology, classical and contemporary social theory, research design and statistics for the social sciences, and a methods sequence covering qualitative and quantitative approaches.

• Introductory Sociology and Social Problems
• Social Theory (classical and contemporary)
• Research Methods and Social Statistics
• Qualitative Methods and Ethnography
• Electives such as Criminology, Race & Ethnicity, Gender & Society, Family, Urban Sociology, Population & Demography, Environment & Society
• Senior capstone: research project, practicum or internship with community partners

Students are encouraged to pursue experiential learning through community-based practicums, internships, and undergraduate research projects. The department also supports opportunities to combine sociology with minors or double majors in areas such as psychology, political science, public health, environmental studies, or data analytics.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. Typical expectations include a strong college-preparatory record with coursework in English and social studies. Montana State reviews applications holistically and will consider academic transcripts, personal statements and any supporting materials for a full picture of an applicant’s potential.

• Domestic applicants: completion of secondary education with evidence of academic readiness for undergraduate study.
• Transfer applicants: official college transcripts showing college-level coursework; specific transfer credit is evaluated by the registrar and department.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary credential plus proof of English language proficiency where required (e.g. recognised tests or institutional measures).
• Other considerations: relevant volunteer, work or community experience and a commitment to collaborative research or practicum work strengthen an application.

Career prospects

A bachelor’s degree in sociology prepares graduates for a wide range of careers that require analytical, research and communication skills. Graduates commonly move into roles in social services, community outreach, case management, non‑profit administration, public policy, criminal justice, and healthcare administration. The quantitative and research training also suits entry positions in market and social research, human resources, data analysis and program evaluation.

Many sociology graduates use the degree as preparation for graduate study in sociology, public policy, social work (MSW), law, public health or related fields. Montana State’s location and community links provide pathways to internships and employment with state agencies, local government, tribal organisations and regional non‑profits.

Why study at Montana State University

Montana State is a land‑grant research university that emphasises applied learning and community engagement, giving sociology students access to undergraduate research opportunities and local practicum placements across the state. The programme benefits from small class sizes in upper‑division courses, direct access to faculty mentors, and interdisciplinary collaboration across departments such as public health, environment and policy studies.

Students can draw on campus support services including career advising, internship coordination and research mentorship to build practical experience and a professional portfolio. The department’s regional networks and emphasis on place‑based research make MSU a strong choice for students who want to combine sociological training with hands‑on work in communities, policy settings and applied research environments.