Sociology
In the Sociology program at Minnesota State University Mankato, students examine inequality from various intersectional perspectives, learning to understand and critically evaluate sociological theories and concepts. They develop professional skills such as communication, cultural competencies, and data analysis while conducting research and collaborating with community partners to promote social change.
Careers in Sociology
Students will explore and identify careers and professions that employ/require sociological analysis and data management skills, preparing them for careers in academic and applied settings including human services, government, business, nonprofit organizations, and social action organizations.- Counselor
- Case Manager
- Community Organizer
- Advocacy
- Data Specialist/Research
- Crisis Intervention
Potential Salary
Median Salary $101,770
Sociology Degrees at MSU
Sociology, Bachelor of Science
The Sociology Major prepares students for a variety of careers in the private, public, or government sectors by equipping them with research skills, a strong sociological perspective, and a commitment to social justice. Learn how society is organized and how that shapes peoples' preferences, decisions, and experiences in social life. Sociological knowledge is a very powerful instrument for understanding the social dynamics of family, identity, politics, community, work, and every aspect of daily life.
Sociology, Minor
A Minor in Sociology pairs well with any major and helps students learn about people in society, which is helpful with any career path. The minor is flexible and students can customize based on interests and career aspirations.
Sociology, Master of Arts
The Sociology program explores the social world, emphasizing diverse theories and research methods. It offers core courses, specialized subject areas, and opportunities for academic focus. Ideal for those pursuing a Ph.D. or careers in teaching and research, it also prepares students for roles applying sociology in various work settings.
Sociology, Human Service Planning and Administration, Master of Science
The Master of Science in Sociology: Human Services Planning and Administration is designed for a person seeking a leadership role as an administrator in the field of human services. The graduate of this program will have a solid grounding in the knowledge, values, and skills appropriate for a broad range of human services programs. The program especially encourages creative and critical thinking skills which enable the graduate to produce positive changes in organizations.
Sociology, Teaching, Master of Arts–The Master of Arts Sociology
College Teaching is designed for students planning an academic career with a Master’s degree and an emphasis on teaching. MA graduates are typically eligible for most academic appointments at the community college level. This program is also ideally suited for those planning on advanced graduate training in a doctoral program and an academic career.
Sociology, Graduate Certificate
The Sociology Graduate Certificate program provides opportunities to apply sociological perspectives and research to real-world issues. It serves students who want to extend their study of sociology to the graduate level, and it is designed specifically for high school teachers and community college instructors who need graduate-level coursework in sociology to expand their knowledge of the discipline and/or to gain Higher Learning Commission (HLC) faculty qualifications for accreditation.
Sociology, Bachelor of Science
The Sociology Major prepares students for a variety of careers in the private, public, or government sectors by equipping them with research skills, a strong sociological perspective, and a commitment to social justice. Learn how society is organized and how that shapes peoples' preferences, decisions, and experiences in social life. Sociological knowledge is a very powerful instrument for understanding the social dynamics of family, identity, politics, community, work, and every aspect of daily life.
Sociology, Minor
A Minor in Sociology pairs well with any major and helps students learn about people in society, which is helpful with any career path. The minor is flexible and students can customize based on interests and career aspirations.
Sociology, Master of Arts
The Sociology program explores the social world, emphasizing diverse theories and research methods. It offers core courses, specialized subject areas, and opportunities for academic focus. Ideal for those pursuing a Ph.D. or careers in teaching and research, it also prepares students for roles applying sociology in various work settings.
Sociology, Human Service Planning and Administration, Master of Science
The Master of Science in Sociology: Human Services Planning and Administration is designed for a person seeking a leadership role as an administrator in the field of human services. The graduate of this program will have a solid grounding in the knowledge, values, and skills appropriate for a broad range of human services programs. The program especially encourages creative and critical thinking skills which enable the graduate to produce positive changes in organizations.
Sociology, Teaching, Master of Arts–The Master of Arts Sociology
College Teaching is designed for students planning an academic career with a Master’s degree and an emphasis on teaching. MA graduates are typically eligible for most academic appointments at the community college level. This program is also ideally suited for those planning on advanced graduate training in a doctoral program and an academic career.
Sociology, Graduate Certificate
The Sociology Graduate Certificate program provides opportunities to apply sociological perspectives and research to real-world issues. It serves students who want to extend their study of sociology to the graduate level, and it is designed specifically for high school teachers and community college instructors who need graduate-level coursework in sociology to expand their knowledge of the discipline and/or to gain Higher Learning Commission (HLC) faculty qualifications for accreditation.
Experiential Learning
The sociology program offers a number of experiential courses at both the undergraduate and graduate level that provide students with real-world experiences that allow students to learn while engaging in unique and hands on experiences. Many of the skills learned and experienced in these classes translate well to various career settings.
Learn More
Accelerated Combined Degree
Undergraduate students in sociology interested in pursuing a master’s degree in Sociology may be granted permission to double count up to 12 credits for both the undergraduate and the graduate program.
Sociology Club
The Sociology Club at Minnesota State University, Mankato provides a social and academic environment for students to network, practice their sociological imagination and strengthen their skills through activities and conferences. The club fosters a supportive community of students passionate about sociology, facilitating knowledge sharing and networking opportunities.
Related Programs
Aging Studies
The Aging Studies program prepares students to support individuals as they age by exploring the biological, social and psychological aspects of aging. The program offers a broad and versatile background, enabling students to make a meaningful impact on society by serving older adults.
Psychology
Psychology is the scientific study of the effects of individual, social, physiological, developmental, and environmental factors on thoughts, feelings, and behavior.
Corrections
The Corrections program integrates sociological and criminological theory with evidence-based practices, emphasizing social justice, respect, and tolerance. It combines academic coursework with experiential learning to develop strategies for improving the lives of diverse justice-involved individuals.
Non-Profit Leadership Program
The Nonprofit Leadership Program (NPL) is a multidisciplinary applied program designed for undergraduate students and nonprofit practitioners interested in gaining the knowledge and skills necessary for success and advancement in nonprofit leadership and civil society.
Department of Sociology
College of
Humanities and Social Sciences
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences is an inclusive community of diverse learners seeking to examine, engage with and transform the social world while nurturing creativity and innovation. Our programs build a foundation of knowledge that adapts to a constantly changing society.
Learn More About the College of Humanities and Social Sciences