Sociology
The Department of Sociology offers a program of study informed by the disciplines of both Sociology and Anthropology. Students acquire the intellectual tools necessary to understand and act in a world that is increasingly global, intercultural and diverse. The program helps students see the links between the individual and society by pointing to the larger cultural, institutional, organizational and historical contexts that shape everyday life. In exploring the social and cultural experiences of difference (race, gender, class, sexual orientation, age, ability) and by seeing how a range of social inequalities are produced and maintained by society, students gain a broad understanding of the power of social institutions and culture for shaping our lives. By developing research skills and critical thinking and through interaction in communities, students gain the ability to contribute in meaningful ways to our world.
Program of Study
In addition to the general liberal arts courses required of all UNC Asheville students, Sociology majors must fulfill a seven-course Sociology core requirement, including Introduction to Sociology, Social Theory I and II, Research Methods I and II, Social Stratification and Senior Research. Students may select elective course work in both Sociology and Anthropology, covering a range of topics from gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, disability studies, poverty, aging, criminal justice, social deviance, organizations, culture, social welfare, family and cross-cultural studies. In addition to the major in Sociology, UNC Asheville offers the major in Sociology with Teacher Licensure and the minor in Sociology.
Hands-On Experience
Active learning is an important part of the program at UNC Asheville. Students learn many of the principles, concepts and methods of Sociology and Anthropology by carrying out research projects on campus and in the larger community. Many courses integrate a service learning component in which students test out concepts and ideas in a “real-world” setting while providing for the needs of specific organizations in the Asheville area. Sociology majors may intern at an institution in the Asheville area (local hospitals, rape crisis centers, social work agencies, migrant workers’ associations, and probation and parole offices, for example). Internships allow students to become more familiar with and eligible for work within such institutions and to clarify their own interests and abilities. Many opportunities for independent study, Undergraduate Research, and participation in professional conferences exist for the department’s more advanced majors.
Post-Graduate Opportunities
Within the liberal arts context, Sociology and Anthropology contribute to the development of well-rounded students ready for work in a wide range of fields. Our graduates are working in both nonprofit and for-profit sectors in areas such as criminal justice, social work, education, social and political advocacy, counseling and management. Our program of study also prepares students to pursue advanced degrees, and many majors have gone on to excellent graduate schools in sociology, anthropology, social work, law, business and other fields.
Faculty
Sociology faculty members hold advanced degrees from some of the finest institutions in the country, and they are all committed to excellence in teaching. Each one is an active scholar and participates in a variety of community service activities. Many of the faculty have extensive knowledge of other cultures and have lived and studied in a number of other countries.
More Information
Sociology Department
Zageir Hall, CPO #1930
UNC Asheville
One University Heights
Asheville, NC 28804-8508
828.251.6426