Sociology Department Home
The Department of Sociology at Mount St. Mary’s College leads students on an examination of human behavior in many contexts, from the family, community, the workplace and in film, to regional, national, and global arenas.
The department’s variety of degree programs and areas of specialization challenge students to take on active and meaningful roles in their communities, from working at government agencies and non-profit organizations to producing documentary films to help bring about social change. Sociology coursework also provides an excellent foundation for graduate studies in public health, social work, public and urban policy, sociology, criminology, gerontology, epidemiology, global studies, and the law.
Seven Specialization Options in Sociology
(go to "Degrees" for list of required courses for each specialization)
Specialization One: Criminology: Excellent preparation for careers in law enforcement, probation, crime prevention, criminal investigation, forensics, rehabilitation, programs for at-risk youth.
Specialization Two: Global Studies and Human Rights: Addresses the fundamental challenges of population growth, migration, cultural diffusion and evironmental change, through the lens of human rights advocacy. A range of topics are explored, including poverty, child labor, children of war, women's rights, economic development, healthcare, and the intersection of religion, politics, economics and culture.
Specialization Three: Medical Sociology: Recommended for those interested in careers in health and human services, medical social work, case management of healthcare resources, and other healthcare-related professions. Work settings include hospitals, health management organizations, rehabilitation centers, hospices, and other healthcare agencies.
Specialization Four: Race, Class, and Gender: A broad examination of the complex dynamics, life chances, and interactional impact that exists at the intersection of race, class, and gender. An appropriate specialization for those pursuing careers in such areas as race/ethnic relations, immigration, labor relations, human resources, or public policy. Good preparation for graduate studies in social stratification, gender studies, and race/ethnic relations.
Specialization Five: Communications: Basic theories and practice of communication through mass media are examined, along with hands-on practice using a variety of tools, including video production, sound and film editing, and writing web content. Provides a good foundation for careers in the media or virtually any other career in which media communication skills are necessary and important.
Specialization Six: Social Services: Prepares students for careers in social service agencies, providing a foundation of understanding of development of the life course, and basic skills necessary for working with people in the helping professions. Good preparation for advanced study in social work.
Specialization Seven: Family Relations: For students interested in working with couples and families in a variety of clinical settings. Prepares students for advanced studies in marriage and the family.
