University of Wisconsin–Parkside

What you'll study

This programme provides foundational knowledge in sociological theory, social institutions and empirical research methods, alongside opportunities to apply learning to local and global issues. Core areas typically include classical and contemporary social theory, research design and methods, social statistics, and substantive topics such as inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, family, deviance and crime, and organisations.

• Foundations: Introduction to Sociology; Social Theory (classical and contemporary)
• Methods and analysis: Research Methods in Sociology; Social Statistics; Qualitative and Quantitative Techniques
• Substantive modules: Sociology of Race and Ethnicity; Gender and Society; Sociology of the Family; Crime and Deviance; Work, Organisations and Inequality
• Applied learning: Internship or practicum with community partners; senior seminar or capstone project involving independent research
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses available in public policy, criminal justice, social work, health sociology and globalisation to tailor study to career goals

The programme balances classroom learning with applied experience, encouraging students to complete a research project or internship in the region to develop practical skills for employment or postgraduate study.

Entry requirements

Admission is at undergraduate level and requires a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. Applicants are expected to provide academic transcripts and evidence of readiness for university study. Typical preparation includes coursework in English and social studies; familiarity with basic mathematics or statistics is advantageous because of the research methods component.

Transfer applicants with college-level coursework in social sciences are considered; credit transfer is evaluated on an individual basis. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternative evidence. Prospective students should consult the university’s admissions pages for specific documentation and any programme-specific recommendations.

Career prospects

Graduates with a sociology degree from Parkside enter a wide range of roles where understanding people, institutions and data is valuable. Career paths commonly pursued include:

• Social research and data analysis for public agencies, think tanks or market research firms
• Community development, case management and social services roles in non-profit and public sectors
• Policy analysis, advocacy and programme evaluation for government or NGOs
• Criminal justice, probation or victim support services
• Human resources, diversity and inclusion roles within private and public organisations
• Further study in sociology, social work, public health, law or related graduate programmes

The programme’s emphasis on research methods, internships and community partnerships helps graduates develop transferable skills — such as critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative analysis, report writing and ethical practice — that employers value across sectors.

Why study at University of Wisconsin–Parkside

Parkside offers a sociological programme grounded in applied learning and close engagement with the communities of the Kenosha–Racine region. Students benefit from small class sizes, accessible faculty who are active in research and community projects, and practical placement opportunities that connect coursework to real-world settings.

The department supports independent research projects and provides pathways to interdisciplinary study with related areas such as criminal justice, social work and public health. For students looking to gain hands-on experience while preparing for careers or postgraduate study, Parkside’s local partnerships and emphasis on applied sociology make it a practical choice.