Sociology Department

Sociology at Duquesne

Sociology provides you with a greater understanding of the structures and processes that underlie our daily lives. This program provides an awareness of the possibilities of social-scientific research for increasing our understanding of society. You will explore course topics that cover many aspects of social problems, policy, and human interaction. These range from criminal justice and global cultures to the sociological aspects of aging, health, and ethnicity. 

Using Science to Improve Society

Our mission recalls the original mandate of sociology, as first defined in the 19th century by Auguste Comte, to use scientific methods to improve society.

What can you do with a training in Sociology?

Many jobs draw upon sociological understanding and training. Sociologists enter the corporate, non-profit, and government worlds as:

• Directors of Research
• Policy Analysts
• Consultants
• Human Resources Managers 
• Program Managers

Our graduates are employed as social work caseworkers, counselors, recreation workers, and administrative assistants in public and private social service agencies; as researchers in consulting firms and research universities, and in private, state or federal agencies.

Some of our graduates are law enforcement officers (at local, state or federal levels), probation, parole, or corrections officers; correctional counselors, or professionals in community corrections and other rehabilitative programs.

Other students work in agencies concerned with health care policy, the administration of homes and facilities for the elderly, the management of public and private services, and counseling of the aged.

Program Tracks

Undergraduate

• Major or Minor in Sociology
  • Optional concentrations: Criminal Justice and Social Justice & Policy
• Minor or Certificate in Criminal Justice
• Minor or Certificate in Health & Human Services

Graduate

• M.A. or Certificate in Applied & Public Sociology