Program Overview

Carroll University’s sociology program prepares you for multiple careers in today's changing world. You’ll examine the societal and cultural forces driving these changes, and address important issues in real-world contexts. Our program prioritizes rigorous learning, knowledge application and vocational relevance. You will be challenged to cultivate a sociological imagination and foster personal competencies for applying it in and outside the classroom.

You’ll use sociological theory, research methods and empirical evidence to critically examine the social world and current issues. You can narrow your focus by selecting from one of three course tracks. These prepare you for a career in the fields of sustainability, social work or community development. In addition, the sociology major allows you to add a complimentary field of study and still graduate in four years.

You’ll also have opportunities to learn outside the classroom through internships, field experiences and student research. These are opportunities to apply the knowledge you’ve acquired in real-world contexts, gain vocational experience and obtain networking contacts for employment after graduation. Carroll University's location offers numerous internship opportunities with agricultural, small business, social services and corporate organizations in rural, suburban and metropolitan settings.

Sustainability track
The sociology and sustainability coursework at Carroll focuses on people, their prosperity and the planet that both depend on. Sustainability is a career field offering students opportunities across myriad sectors of our economy and society, such as corporate chief sustainability officers, manufacturing sustainability managers, renewable energy entrepreneurs, local family farm producers, environmental educators, outdoor recreation and natural resource managers. This emphasis gives you the skills required to help create more sustainable social, economic and ecological systems. You’ll be poised to pioneer sustainable solutions to some of today's most troubling problems while working toward justice, prosperity and environmental stewardship. You can pair this with majors or minors in environmental science, ecology and conservation biology, public health, global studies, political science, business administration, communication, marketing, graphic communication, criminal justice, religious studies, foreign language (e.g. Spanish) and other programs.