Sociology addresses the most challenging matters facing society today. Saints strive to better understand the complex social forces that affect people’s lives, in addition to becoming engaged in the study of and solutions to these issues.
As a Siena sociology major, your experience will include applied media studies, team-based learning, service learning programs, internships and a senior capstone course provide the perspective and experience necessary to prepare you for a successful career in a number of fields such as human resources, law, research, public policy, public relations, media and more. An 18-credit minor is also offered.
Topics you can explore include:
In the spirit of Siena’s Franciscan mission, sociology faculty, students and alumni make a difference in their world through civic engagement at the local, regional, national, and international levels. They use teaching, learning, research, and civic engagement to create a more just, peaceful world.
Sociology majors get an excellent foundation for graduate study in a wide range of fields including sociology, law, business, social work, medicine, public health, public administration etc. They are well-prepared for a variety of careers. Alumni are working in roles like housing director, non profit manager, human resources specialist, attorney, mental health counselor, school counselor, transportation manager, community prevention specialist and communications consultant.
"I've always had an interest in helping people," said Will Hunter '24. "That was the big thing I wanted to figure out at Siena – how can I help people? I knew I wanted to be boots on the ground. I didn't like the idea of being stuck behind a desk all day."
Hunter began his career after graduation as a community educator for Prevention Network (the Onondaga Council on Alcoholism & Addiction). He goes into the community, primarily into high schools, with a powerful message and specific tools targeting the prevention of substance abuse. He couldn't have possibly known it at the time, but nearly every move Hunter made in college prepared him for the opportunity.
Yes. A sociology degree develops skills in research, critical thinking, data analysis, communication, and understanding how people, groups, and institutions interact. These skills can be applied to careers in social services, business, government, education, healthcare, nonprofit organizations, human resources, and research. Sociology can also provide a strong foundation for graduate or professional school.
A sociology degree can prepare students for careers in social services, nonprofit organizations, government, public policy, human resources, healthcare, education, criminal justice, market research, and community development. It can also serve as preparation for graduate study in sociology, social work, law, public health, and other related fields.
Sociology graduates can pursue careers such as social researcher, community outreach coordinator, case manager, human resources specialist, market research analyst, policy analyst, nonprofit professional, public health professional, and government employee. Many graduates also continue to graduate or professional school.
Sociology majors study how people interact within groups, organizations, institutions, and societies. Students explore topics such as culture, inequality, families, education, race and ethnicity, gender, crime, social change, and globalization while developing skills in research, writing, data analysis, and critical thinking.
Sociology focuses on how groups, institutions, cultures, and societies influence human behavior, while psychology focuses primarily on individual behavior and mental processes. Although the two fields overlap, sociology examines broader social systems and relationships, while psychology studies the individual.
Sociology focuses on understanding and researching society, social institutions, and human behavior, while social work focuses on applying that knowledge to help individuals, families, groups, and communities address challenges and access resources. Sociology is generally more research-oriented, while social work emphasizes professional practice and intervention.
Yes. Sociology students gain practical experience through internships, community engagement, service-learning, research projects, and independent studies. These experiences allow students to apply sociological concepts while building professional skills and exploring career interests.
