The discipline of sociology is the social scientific study of human groups and societies. The sociology major at Wartburg College focuses on developing conceptual and practical knowledge and skills in the discipline of sociology. We are an active interdisciplinary major in the department of social sciences that offers multiple opportunities for field research, domestic and international travel, and applied work and service learning opportunities to demonstrate and understand the relevance of sociology through experiential learning. There are many opportunities to collaborate with faculty in various projects and programs. The sociology major prepares students for a diverse range of careers in both public and private sectors and continued education toward a postgraduate degree. Program goals for students in the sociology major are:

• Use critical thinking to examine and evaluate a wide range of social phenomenon and organizations.
• Demonstrate command of theory, methods, and empirical examinations of society in a manner that furthers the discipline of sociology.
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills consistent with the professional expectations of the discipline.
• Demonstrate a deep understanding of the social, historical, political, and economic contexts of human groups, organization, and interactions.
• Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills, professional responsibilities, and ethical sensibilities in research and applied work.
• Compete successfully in being admitted to graduate programs in sociology and/or obtaining a professional position utilizing applied sociological expertise.