Sociology

major, minor

Academics / Departments & Programs / Sociology / Academics / Sociology Major

Sociology

major, minor

Degree Overview

Delve into tough questions about how our communities and social relationships shape our lives. Instead of easy answers, you’ll find rich conversations and different approaches to God’s plan for the world.

You’ll examine tension and disorder in society, examining the causes of injustice and suffering. You'll gain a deep understanding of human behavior and relationships, and you’ll equip yourself with the skills to foster renewal and work toward justice in both individual lives and entire communities.

Take your learning outside the classroom through paid research, community internships, off-campus programs, and events like the annual Faith and International Development Conference. You’ll graduate well-equipped for a career in criminology, missions, international development, social work, and more.

Program Distinctives

Practical skills - Sociology students at Calvin get internships at places like local courts, police departments, rehabilitation facilities, counseling centers, and more. 85% of Calvin students have an internship experience before they graduate.
Faithful teachers - Your sociology professors are committed Christians whose faith informs their research and teaching in their field. They'll get to know you personally and even work with you to chart out your academic and career goals.
Off-campus learning - Calvin sociology students have traveled to Tegucigalpa to learn about justice issues from local workers and Honduran politicians. They've gone to Hollywood to analyze the culture and community of film. At Calvin, you'll have many opportunities to pursue your learning off-campus.
Real-world research - Each professor in the sociology department is an active researcher in their field. As a sociology student, you could team up with faculty on one of these projects. Programs like the McGregor Summer Research program and Calvin's Center for Social Research can provide many opportunities for research that will bolster your skills and your résumé.

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Degree Information

major
  • Overview

    Using the tools of social science, including statistical analysis, theory and other research methods, you'll be equipped to gain an objective look at some of the most important issues of today. Take courses in criminology, diversity and inequality, religion and society, and many more.

  • Courses
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  • Admission

    To be admitted to the major program in sociology, a student must complete Sociology 151 with a minimum grade of C (2.0).

minor

Support for your research

Through programs like the McGregor Research Program and many others, Calvin provides funding for student research every year. Learn more »

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The Calvin Center for Social Research

You could participate in research with Calvin's own Center for Social Research, which pursues a wide range of social-scientific research projects. Learn more »

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You can afford a Calvin education.

You’ve heard a lot about the high cost of a university education. But a Calvin education is much more affordable than you think. Most Calvin students pay far below the sticker price—and graduate with less debt than you might expect.

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A reputation for excellence.

There’s a reason Calvin gets top marks from U.S. News & World Report, The Princeton Review, and more. Calvin graduates are in demand at grad schools, med schools, and careers in every field.

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ACADEMIC OPTIONS

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Costs & Financial Aid

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