Sociology Program

What Is Sociology?

Sociology is the scientific study of human social life. Sociologists seek to describe social patterns and to develop theories for explanation and prediction of social processes of all sizes. Sociology applies objective and systematic methods of investigation to identify patterns and forms of social life and to understand the processes of development and change in human societies. The UNC-Charlotte Sociology program offers a comprehensive curriculum of interest to people of various backgrounds. An undergraduate B.A. degree and a graduate M.A. degree are available.

The study of Sociology is attractive to students seeking a liberal education and immediate employment and to those preparing for further study and professional careers. As a liberal arts program, sociology enables students to understand the social contexts in which they find themselves and the social forces that shape individual personality, actions, and interactions with others. The Sociology program includes emphasis on critical thinking, research methods, and quantitative analysis.

Sociology is excellent background for individuals entering a range of employment situations: social work, law, teaching, the ministry, journalism, planning, public relations, and personnel services. The analytical skills acquired in the sociology program are relevant to market research, program evaluation, sales, management, and other business activities.

Sociology faculty at UNC-Charlotte are currently working on several research projects, including ones funded by the Ford Foundation and the National Science Foundation. Research interests of the faculty include small group interaction, comparative and historical sociology, social factors in education, aging and society, health and mental health services, and family issues. Please consult the faculty list for information about faculty research specializations.