Boise State University

What you'll study

The sociology major at Boise State builds a foundation in sociological theory, research methods and substantive areas of social life. Early coursework introduces core concepts through classes such as Introduction to Sociology, Social Theory, and Social Research Methods. Students develop quantitative and qualitative research skills in courses covering statistics for social scientists, survey and interview techniques, and research design.

• Foundations: social theory, sociological perspectives and the history of the discipline.
• Research methods: statistics, data analysis, qualitative methods, and practicum-style research projects.
• Substantive areas: race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, family, deviance and criminal justice, social stratification and inequality, urban and community sociology.
• Applied learning: internship placements, community-based research, service-learning courses and a capstone senior seminar or independent research project.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: students may combine sociology with courses in public policy, criminal justice, public health, education or environmental studies to tailor their degree to specific interests.

The programme typically progresses from lower-division survey courses to upper-division seminars and practicum experiences. Many students take advantage of opportunities to work with faculty on ongoing projects, present research at student symposia, or complete an honours thesis.

Entry requirements

Admission to Boise State for first-year students requires a completed secondary school credential with a college-preparatory curriculum. Successful applicants typically present a solid academic record in core subjects, particularly in social sciences and English. The university considers a holistic profile that may include extracurricular involvement, community service, and written statements.

Transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and transcripts; students transferring credit in sociology or research methods should consult the department for how courses articulate with the major. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior education in English. Placement in certain quantitative courses may be determined by assessment results or prior coursework.

Prospective students should review general university admission policies and consult the Department of Sociology and Anthropology for specific major advising and any prerequisite requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates with a BA in Sociology from Boise State enter a variety of professional fields where analytical, research and communication skills are valued. Common career paths include:

• Non-profit and community organisations: programme coordination, outreach, case management and advocacy.
• Public sector and policy work: roles in local and state government, policy analysis, community planning and social services administration.
• Research and data analysis: research assistant positions, programme evaluation, market research and data support roles for public and private organisations.
• Criminal justice and corrections: support roles in probation, rehabilitation programmes and victim services; preparation for further training in related professions.
• Human resources and organisational development: recruitment, training, diversity and inclusion work, and employee relations.
• Education and graduate study: teaching, school services and a pathway to graduate degrees in sociology, social work, public policy, law or related fields.

The department’s emphasis on applied research and community engagement helps students secure internships and build networks with local employers, enhancing employability upon graduation.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State offers a sociology programme with a strong applied focus and close ties to the local community and state institutions. The university’s urban campus and proximity to the state capital provide access to internships and partnerships with government agencies, non-profits and community organisations.

Faculty in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology are active in applied and policy-relevant research, and students frequently collaborate on community-based projects. Boise State houses research centres and initiatives that create opportunities for student involvement, mentoring and hands-on experience.

The programme balances classroom learning with experiential options such as service learning, fieldwork and capstone research, allowing students to translate theory into practice. Smaller upper-division classes support direct interaction with faculty, while interdisciplinary pathways enable students to combine sociology with public health, criminology, environmental studies or other areas to meet specific career aims.