Minor in Sociology

About this field

Sociology is a social science that involves the study of human society. Sociologists examine aspects of society and social behavior, including cultures, social institutions, groups and more. Anthropology also involves the study of people but focuses on humans and their immediate ancestors. Anthropologists examine patterns of culture and behavior in order to understand human diversity in the present and past. Students in the sociology and anthropology undergraduate program have the unique opportunity to take core classes in both disciplines, then select a concentration in either applied and clinical sociology or anthropology. The graduate program focuses on applied sociology, a field in which sociological knowledge is used to analyze real-world situations.

The Valdosta State Difference

The undergraduate major in sociology and anthropology at Valdosta State balances rigorous coursework with hands-on experience to prepare students for careers in the field or graduate studies. Class size in the program is small, with an average of 30 students per class. Students selecting the applied and clinical sociology concentration are required to complete an internship as part of their coursework. Internships in the areas of archaeology and cultural anthropology are strongly encouraged for students choosing the anthropology concentration. Students can gain additional hands-on experience by participating in the department’s study abroad program, in which students have traveled to locales including Belize, Mexico and France to immerse themselves in foreign culture while studying the discipline. Student organizations for majors include the VSU Anthropology Club, Alpha Kappa Delta, an international sociological honor society, and Lambda Alpha, a national anthropology honor society.

What You'll Learn

A sociology minor complements a number of majors, particularly those that involve a future career in human services, human resources, community organization, program development, law and organizational management. Fifteen to 18 hours of coursework are required.

Careers

• Admissions Counselor
• Affirmative Action Specialist
• Anthropologist
• Archeologist
• Career Counselor
• Case Manager
• Caseworker
• Community Aide
• Community Development Specialist
• Community Organizer
• Consumer Relations Specialist
• Correctional Counselor
• Employee Relations Coordinator
• Government Agency Administrator

• Hospital Administrator
• Housing Coordinator
• Human Resources Director
• Human Resources Specialist
• Human Rights Specialist
• Issues Manager
• Juvenile Court Specialist
• Market Analyst
• Nonprofit Administrator
• Recruiter
• Social Worker
• Sociologist
• Substance Abuse Counselor