Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The Sociology degree combines theoretical perspectives with practical research training. Early coursework introduces core concepts in sociological theory and social research methods, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Typical modules include:

• Sociological Theory — classical and contemporary frameworks for understanding social life.
• Research Methods — design of social research, survey methods, interviewing and ethnography.
• Social Statistics — descriptive and inferential statistics used in sociology, often with applied lab work using statistical software.
• Social Stratification — class, race, gender and inequality across institutions.
• Courses on Key Social Institutions — family, education, religion, work and the criminal justice system.
• Specialist Topics — urban sociology, medical sociology, migration, deviance and substance use, environmental sociology, and globalisation.
• Capstone/Senior Seminar or Directed Research — preparing an extended paper or project that applies methods and theory to an empirical question.

Students build a programme of study across lower- and upper-level courses, typically earning elective credits in related departments (such as psychology, political science, public affairs or statistics). Practical experiences such as internships, research assistantships with faculty and community-engaged projects are commonly used to apply classroom learning.

Entry requirements

Admissions expect a completed secondary school qualification equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Successful applicants typically present a strong academic record with a breadth of coursework. Recommended preparation includes social sciences and mathematics (for the quantitative components of the programme).

Indiana University accepts a range of application materials; standard requirements for international applicants include a recognised secondary credential and evidence of English proficiency. Standardised tests may be optional depending on the applicant's educational background and the university's current policies. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and a record of coursework in social science and research methods where available.

Career prospects

Graduates with a sociology degree from Indiana University move into a wide variety of careers. The programme emphasises research and analytical skills, which are valuable in:

• Social research and data analysis (research institutes, think tanks, market research firms)
• Public policy and government agencies
• Non-profit and community organisations, programme development and evaluation
• Human resources, diversity and inclusion roles
• Criminal justice and social services
• Education, outreach and advocacy
• Further academic study (master's and doctoral programmes in sociology, public affairs, social work, law and related fields)

Many graduates combine field experience (internships or service-learning) with their degree to enhance employability and professional networks.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a sociology programme grounded in active research and a wide range of faculty specialisms. The department provides opportunities to work directly with researchers on ongoing projects and to gain hands-on experience in survey research and data analysis.

Students benefit from IU Bloomington's interdisciplinary environment — easy access to complementary programmes, centres and professional schools supports practical training and career connections. On-campus resources commonly used by sociology students include research centres, community partnerships for applied projects, undergraduate research opportunities and support for internships and study abroad. The department also hosts student organisations and colloquia that connect undergraduates to the wider academic community and to external employers.