Loyola University Chicago

Department of Sociology

Sociology Undergraduate Program

If you are interested in how people interact with each other, how social structures (like bureaucracies, churches, and families) influence our lives—then, you are already interested in sociology.

With a background in sociology, you will be better able to raise relevant questions about the direction in which society is moving, interpret social trends, and examine significant social problems. Whether you major in sociology, minor in sociology, or just take a course or two, you should gain new insight into the ways that society shapes people and the way people shape their society.

People have historically used sociological analyses to make sense of their social world and issues such as class, gender, sexuality, race relations and inequality in society. Others wanted to use their sociological analysis to create change in the world. Still others spent their careers trying to figure out just what is meant by a sociological analysis. The field of Sociology offers an exciting entry into a diverse range of careers from teaching and research to administration and consulting.

Objectives of the Sociology Undergraduate Program:

The undergraduate curriculum in sociology is designed to meet the varied educational needs of Loyola's students: those wishing to prepare for graduate study in sociology or a related discipline; those interested in careers in law, the health professions, business, government, teaching, or social service; and students who simply want new insights into their own lives, the lives of the people around them, and the world in which we live.

Undergraduate Sociology Courses offered in the Department are organized in the following way. Sociology 101 provides a systematic introduction to the methods and subject matter of sociology. Sociology 121 through 280 focus on particular areas in society that may be of interest to students in many majors. Sociology 121–127 are designed for students who wish to see how the sociological perspective is applied to a single topic area. The 120 level courses along with Sociology 101 and 102, may be used to fulfill the core curriculum requirements in social science. 301 through 365 are seminar courses designed to complement and build upon the basic courses. Advanced courses (Sociology 370 and above) require special permission from the chairperson or department undergraduate advisor. Students who would like to gain experience in applying sociological skills to work in community, government, social service, and business settings are strongly advised to take Sociology 371 (Internship).