About Sociology

Sociology is a behavioral science with a humanistic orientation. Sociology combines social relevance with the rigor of a scientific discipline. Sociology's subject matter is human association and all that it produces, including culture, technology, and society itself. Students who are curious about the social influences on human behavior or are interested in social services are often attracted to sociology.

Sociology is relevant to any occupation that involves working with people rather than things. Students may declare a major in Sociology as late as fall semester of their junior year. Special interests and needs may be accommodated through the advising process. To broaden their educational opportunities, students are encouraged to develop a minor field, to study abroad, or to participate in the Chicago Urban Studies Program.

Quantitative and qualitative research and computer skills are developed in statistics, methods, and applied courses. The fundamental principles of human association are scrutinized throughout the curriculum, but particularly in courses on the history of social thought, social organization, and class, status, and power. Volunteer work and internships apply Sociological principles to the world of work.

Contact Us

Sociology Department
Rebecca Gearhart, Chair
Illinois Wesleyan University
PO Box 2900
Bloomington IL 61702-2900

Phone: (309) 556-3193
Fax: (309) 556-3719