Sociology focuses on how social systems, social problems, and human behavior are interrelated. This discipline looks at the formation, structure, processes, and changes that occur in groups, systems, organizations and societies. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology is diverse. Topics include studies of intimate relationships, mob actions, deviant/criminal behavior, religions, cultural practices, and societal attitudes and behaviors that are tied to race, sex, and social class.

Sociology prepares students for careers in sociology as well as other areas. These include social work, human services, urban and rural development, political and social policy, education, aging, environmental programs, business, public and private research, community action agencies and health, welfare and justice systems.

At the completion of the Program, students will be able to:

1.  describe how sociology contributes to understanding and predicting human experience.

2.  explain how empirical evidence contributes to sociological knowledge.

3.  describe the effects of social forces on behavior and the effects of group membership.

4.  demonstrate the impact of social structures and the processes of societal change.

5.  describe the impact of variation by race, class, sex/gender, and age on life chances.

6.  demonstrate skills in the use of computers and statistical procedures in gathering, analyzing and interpreting data.

7.  formulate and evaluate research methodologies for the analysis of social phenomena.

8.  apply critical thinking skills to formulate social policies to address social inequalities.  

UAA is an ideal setting for the study of sociology due to the diversity of people in Alaska and both urban and rural areas throughout the state. Students can specialize in General Sociology, Family and Life Cycles or Community and Change.