Sociology

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

UW-Laramie & UW-Casper

On-Campus & Online

Students camping

Study the structures of society and learn to make sense of the complex world

Sociology is the study of the development, interaction and behavior of organized human groups. Sociology provides powerful insights into the social processes that shape our lives, the problems we face and the possibilities we can envision. Studying sociology not only gives you a deeper understanding of the complex world around you—it also helps you understand your place in the world.

The B.A. in sociology at UW will train you to think in fresh ways, research ancient and new ideas and prepare for an exciting range of career possibilities. 

About Sociology at UW

Sociology is a multifaceted discipline, allowing students to take courses on a broad array of topics, from Sociology of Medicine to Environmental Sociology. Students will gain several tangible skills, such as research literacy, the ability to engage in basic social science research and critical writing abilities. UW sociology students often go on to pursue graduate school or employment in data analysis and social services programs.

Students also enjoy access to a small research lab for qualitative and quantitative data analysis programs, such as MAXQDA, STATA and R software.

Students sitting on Prexy's
Professors in office together

Our sociology faculty are both exceptional scholars and teachers in their fields. For example, Jennifer Tabler received the College of Arts & Sciences Extraordinary Merit in Research Award in 2021. She is the first faculty to receive this award in the department.

Dr. Tabler was also recently selected for the Faculty Senate Speaker Series to present her research on growing up Queer in the American Frontier.

We also have fantastic educators. Dan Auerbach recently received a PIE Award, which recognizes outstanding teaching for first-year students. 

Looking for extra help paying for school? UW sociology majors have several scholarship opportunities, including the Meeks Scholarship, The Flittie Rising Senior award and the Major General Susan L Pamerleau Sociology Scholarship, in addition to UW's many scholarship opportunities.

Students on laptops

What Can You Do With a Sociology Degree?

The skills you'll acquire as a sociology major will serve you no matter what career path you choose. Employers appreciate the data-driven mindset of sociology graduates, as well as their ability to see the big picture and provide fresh perspectives on tough problems. 

Sociology Careers

Here are just some of the fields you could work in with a degree in sociology:

  • Human resources manager
  • Education 
  • Consumer relations specialist
  • Law
  • Law enforcement
  • Merchandiser
  • Technical writer
  • Sociologist
  • Market analyst
  • City planning
  • Office administration
  • Public relations specialist
Professor teaching class

 

Here's how University of Wyoming sociology alumni are making a difference:

  • Assistant Director, Boys and Girls Club
  • Senior Academic Advisor
  • Technical Projects Direct
  • Family and Community Partnership Coordinator
  • Program and Policy Analyst
  • United States Marshall for Western District of Texas

Graduate schools UW Sociology alumni have attended:

 

  • Pennsylvania State University
  • Texas A&M
  • Northern Arizona State University
  • Bowling Green State University
  • North Carolina State University

 

mountain logo

Sociology Bachelors Degree Program Highlights

Sociology majors at UW have a wide range of interests and career ambitions. That's why we ensure our program is adaptable to your specific goals. Here are a few other reasons why students choose to be a sociology major.

Internships

Internships are great opportunities to receive academic credit for working in non-academic jobs and positions, whether paid or unpaid. In addition to academic training, the internships in the sociology program provide the practical skills that will be required of persons working with groups of people in varying roles and environments. Internships are also an effective tool for enhancing your resume and increasing your competitiveness for jobs once you graduate.

Honor Society

Sociology majors are invited to join the Alpha Kappa Delta, the international sociology honor society, founded in 1920 at the University of Southern California. The University of Wyoming chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta was established in 1995.

Financial Aid

Scholarships and awards are ideal ways to make your education more affordable, manageable and gratifying. The sociology department is pleased to offer several scholarships each year.

Undergraduate Research

Curious about research? The Meeks scholarship is a merit-based scholarship that funds 1–2 undergraduate students over the summer to engage in a research project with a mentor in our department.

I fully believe that anyone can benefit from sociology, regardless of their future plans or aspirations. The UW sociology faculty is full of dedicated and open-minded people who want to help students in their journey of self-discovery and the department provides fantastic opportunities for research and growth alike.

- Rachael Pinkham
UW sociology major

Contact Us

We're Eager to Help

Department of Criminal Justice and Sociology

Dept. 3197 | A&S Building, Room 208

1000 E. University Ave., WY 82071

Phone: (307) 766-2988

Email: sociology@uwyo.edu