Loras College

Sociology

Sociology teaches students to view the social world from various sociological perspectives and to develop the ability to pose critical questions about the social world.  Loras courses emphasize the importance of recognizing cultural diversity, social inequality and the social responsibility everyone possesses.  Students discern and discuss various assumptions about the nature of individuals, society and the relationship between the two, while exploring multiple perspectives.  A degree in Sociology enables students to understand how institutions and organizations work, including the interdependence of social systems and conflicts of interest within and between social units.  Graduates also recognize causes and consequences of inequality rooted in social class, gender, and race and ethnicity, compare and contrast basic theoretical orientations, learn sociological research methods and demonstrate proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research skills by engaging in research that requires gathering, analyzing, interpreting, and reporting original data.

Graduates may enter a wide range of entry-level positions in both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations.  These fields include corrections, child welfare, environmental planning, geriatrics, industrial relations, employee assistance, medical social work, public welfare, research, family service, probation, urban planning and community services.  Sociologists who hold advanced degrees frequently work directly with research-related projects involving poverty, rural sociology, social organization, public assistance, population policy, social rehabilitation, community development, public opinion analysis and environmental impact studies. 

• Division of Social and Cultural Studies
• Program Requirements