Illinois Wesleyan
Sociology

Change the World

A Solid Foundation

Are you planning to pursue a career that involves dealing with group dynamics, keeping up on social trends, or navigating cultural diversity, here or abroad? Then you need to study sociology! Sociologists are social scientists who use sophisticated research methods to gather and analyze data on groups, institutions, beliefs, and experiences to understand how societies work. Students are often attracted to sociology because of a passion for social justice, a desire to understand different groups or cultures, and a need to understand organizations or institutions.

Opportunities to Explore
 
Criminology Minor
Criminology Minor
Criminology is the sociological study of crime and the criminal justice system. Our Criminology minor provides a unique interdisciplinary framework, grounded in the social sciences but also engaging the natural sciences and humanities.
Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS)
Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS)
The interdisciplinary major & minor sequences in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies support Illinois Wesleyan University's commitment to diversity and social justice through courses that open discussion about the ways in which gender and sexuality construct our lives and institutions. 
Advocacy Minor
Advocacy Minor
The Advocacy minor is for students who seek to learn effective advocacy skills. Students select one of three concentrations: law, nonprofit management, or public administration. 
Student Research
Student Research
The Research Honors program provides qualified students with an opportunity to work closely with a faculty member in the department who serves as the advisor on a year-long research project. Students who pursue Research Honors undertake projects at an advanced level that test theories and employ methods developed by professionals in their discipline and make unique contributions to the field as a result.
Internships
Internships
Students majoring in sociology have participated in a wide variety of internships, both locally and across the region and beyond. The Hart Career Center helps students search, apply, and interview for internships related to their goals and interests.
Mission and Vision
Mission and Vision
The mission of the sociology program is to provide students with a broad and actionable education, applicable to a variety of career paths, that includes research, writing, and critical thinking skills. Our vision is to support students on their path to becoming informed, well-rounded, and effective members of our society by providing them with a rigorous curriculum where they can see themselves and their future life trajectories represented.
Where Do You Want To Go Next?