Do you find yourself looking at your school, your neighborhood, or perhaps the world and wondering how it got that way?

Sociology examines the forces that shape your life at both the broad societal level and the level of daily interactions. It addresses a variety of intellectual as well as policy- related issues and concerns, such as socioeconomic and demographic change, social institution (such as law, medicine, education, the family, politics, the professions), and the structure of social inequality.

As a discipline, sociology is concerned with the methods of inquiry as well as with the substance. As a sociology student, you will ask questions not only about social phenomena, but also use a set of methods for their systematic analysis. A sociological education goes beyond the structure of societies and social relations to encourage the development of critical and analytical thinking abilities.

Classes in PC’s sociology department will challenge you to increase your awareness of the complexities of different societies. The curriculum is designed to stimulate your intellectual growth and prepare you to participate in the local, national, and world communities. The curriculum includes a through introduction to the methods and perspectives of the discipline and also provides opportunities for students to pursue studies in the diverse subareas of sociology either though coursework or through the pursuit of directed readings or independent research.

Some of our graduates work in social research positions in government and industry, while others have taken jobs in the fields of business, personnel management, teaching, and journalism. Some even continue their education and become lawyers, ministers, social service agency administrators, or even sociology professors. Students may choose courses to pursue various interests such as social/human services, global studies/international issues, administrative or criminal justice, or graduate studies.