The Undergraduate Program

Sociology. Sociology is the study of human behavior. Sociologists are interested in uncovering the rules of behavior in society, learning how those rules are created and transmitted, and, most importantly, analyzing the ways in which social rules structure our behavior. By studying sociology you can learn about such micro-level rules as standing an arm's length away from someone in conversation to create the proper social distance, to more macro rules governing race and gender relations and the distribution of wealth and power in society. Sociology is for individuals who want to learn more about why people behave the way they do, and the ways in which various social arrangements enable or inhibit human potential. Sociology holds the key to a better understanding of our social world.

Training for a Career. Surveys of the job market show that employers often seek sociology majors to fill positions in administration, supervision, management, public relations, social services, law enforcement and social research. Key factors in job market success include: good oral and written communication skills, the ability to think critically, an understanding of human behavior, and a comprehension and appreciation of cultural diversity. Courses in the sociology major are designed to provide you with the opportunity to acquire those skills. For more information about careers in the social sciences see The Department of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook. In addition, the department sponsors an organization, the Sociological Association at Virginia Tech (SAV), for students who are interested in enhancing their service and career opportunities outside of the classroom. For information about the Sociological Association at Virginia Tech, contact Gary Wood, Email: gwood.soc@vt.edu

Degree Program. The department offers a Bachelor of Science undergraduate degree. Students can follow an emphasis in crime/deviance or social inequality. The courses expose students to a range of sociological knowledge about the power of culture and social structure in the emergence of self and human behavior. Among the topics covered in the curriculum are: criminology; marriage, courtship and family; deviance; gender; race and ethnicity; developing societies; social movements; work; and religion. Our courses provide training in the methods and theory of interpersonal behavior, social groups, and social organization.

Undergraduate Handbook. Contains course requirements for majors and minors, check sheets, internship information.

Admission. Students not yet admitted to Virginia Tech may apply through the Undergraduate Admissions Office. Students wishing to change majors should contact Ms. Brenda Husser, 560 McBryde Hall, Email: bhusser@vt.edu.