Augustana University

What you'll study

The sociology major combines core theory, quantitative and qualitative methods, and applied electives to give a broad foundation in understanding social life. Students normally complete introductory coursework in sociological perspectives and research methods, followed by intermediate and advanced courses in social theory, statistics for the social sciences and qualitative field methods.

• Core topics: Introduction to Sociology, Classical and Contemporary Social Theory, Research Methods in Sociology, and Social Statistics.
• Common electives: Race and Ethnicity, Gender and Society, Sociology of the Family, Crime and Deviance, Sociology of Education, Urban Sociology, Aging and the Life Course, and Community Development.
• Applied learning: Field practicum or internship with community organisations, service agencies or local government; opportunities for independent study, a senior seminar and a capstone research project or thesis.
• Interdisciplinary options: Courses across psychology, political science, economics and communication are available to complement the major, and study-abroad or cross-campus programmes can expand comparative perspective.

Small class sizes and faculty mentorship mean students often engage in collaborative research projects, present at undergraduate conferences, and gain hands-on experience with data analysis software and qualitative fieldwork techniques.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school completion appropriate to their country. Admission to Augustana University is based on a holistic review of academic records, extracurricular involvement and personal statement. Typical successful applicants have completed college-preparatory coursework including English and social sciences.

• Academic preparation: Secondary-school diploma with a record of college-preparatory classes; demonstrated ability in writing and critical reading.
• Application materials: Completed application, personal statement or essay, and one or more letters of recommendation as required by the admissions office.
• International applicants: Proof of secondary completion equivalent to U.S. high school credentials and evidence of English-language proficiency when English is not the primary language.
• Transfer students: Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts; previously earned college credits are evaluated for transfer into the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates with a sociology degree from Augustana build skills in research, critical analysis, writing and interpersonal communication that are valued across sectors. Common career paths include roles in social research and programme evaluation, community and social services, non-profit management, public policy and advocacy, human resources, and criminal justice.

Many graduates also pursue further study in sociology, social work, public administration, education or law. Internship and practicum experiences arranged through the department and the university’s career services help students develop professional networks and practical experience relevant to these fields.

Why study at Augustana University

Augustana’s liberal-arts environment emphasises close student–faculty interaction, small seminars and an applied approach to learning. The sociology programme benefits from faculty who are actively engaged in community-based research and who mentor undergraduates on independent projects. Students have access to internship placements in the local region and to campus resources for career development and graduate-school preparation.

The campus community, grounded in a liberal-arts tradition, supports interdisciplinary study and encourages experiential learning—making Augustana a good fit for students who want both a rigorous academic foundation and practical experience in the social sciences.