Ready to Join Us? Start the Next Steps

Bachelor of Science
On Campus/Hybrid College of Arts & Sciences
View Program Finder

Sociology majors at Sacred Heart study the social self, human relationships, social diversity, and our complex social world. They conduct qualitative and quantitative research as well as data analysis.

Why Earn Your BS in Sociology at Sacred Heart?

Here at SHU, you’ll join a value-driven program with a course of study that fosters students’ interest in social justice and one that highlights practices and structures that promote healthy self-development, positive interpersonal relationships, cohesive family and community, and a fair, supportive society.

In the Sociology major, you will also:

  • Take required courses in research methods, data analysis, and social theory, along with electives covering areas such as family, gender, health care, technology, human rights and social movements
  • Gain an understanding of social problems such as class inequality, ethnic conflict, excessive consumerism, environmental threats, family strain and learn to think in terms of solutions
  • Complete a senior thesis project
  • Have research opportunities throughout your entire course of study
  • Learn from supportive faculty who serve as teachers, advisors and mentors 
  • Benefit from a 3-to-1 faculty/student ratio within the major
  • Complete an internship
  • Have the chance to join Alpha Kappa Delta, the International Sociology Honor Society
  • Have the option to study abroad

Dual Degree Program Options for Sociology Majors

Sacred Heart University’s dual degree programs provide a defined pathway for incoming freshmen to move seamlessly from an undergraduate to a graduate degree.

While some of our dual degree programs require specific undergraduate majors, others are open to almost all undergraduate disciplines. Apply to a dual degree program as an incoming freshman and you’ll have the opportunity to be admitted directly into the graduate program of your choice at the same time as your admission as an undergraduate student. Students are encouraged to reach out to your admissions counselor to discuss dual degree options.

Fast-track your studies

If you plan to pursue a graduate degree after you complete your undergraduate studies, you can apply to the 3+2 Accelerated Bachelor’s-Master’s Degree in Occupational Therapy program.

If you plan to pursue a law degree, you can apply to the 3+3 Bachelor’s & JD program, a collaboration between SHU and Seton Hall University or Villanova University.

The dual degree of BS in Sociology and BS in Business Economics provides a comprehensive education for students interested in careers in philanthropy, nonprofit organizations, businesses dedicated to social goals, and human resources. 

In this 4+1 BA/MAT program, sociology majors can complete a bachelor's degree and Master of Arts in Teaching with initial certification in Secondary Social Studies within five years. Student will apply to the MAT program during their sophomore year, and work closely with their advisor to ensure they are completing all prerequisite course work during their undergraduate years. Sociology majors will complete 18 credits in history to qualify for the social studies certification.

Sacred Heart’s Sociology department has challenged me to shift my perspective by thinking critically about societal inequalities in order to encourage a more cohesive and just society. Having the opportunity to conduct my own sociological research has given me invaluable knowledge that is applicable in many aspects of everyday life. Majoring in Sociology has given me a unique perspective that will benefit me as I enter into my profession.

Prepare for a career or further study

Diverse professions such as law, medicine, occupational therapy, and economics increasingly value candidates having a sociological imagination and social-analytical skills.

SHU sociology graduates have been hired by:

  • Counseling centers
  • Fashion companies
  • Hospital administrations
  • Human resource departments
  • Investment firms
  • NGOs and other non-profit organizations
  • Public relations firms
  • Publishing houses
  • Research organizations
  • School systems
  • Social welfare and criminal justice agencies

Sociology majors have continued on with graduate programs at:

  • Sacred Heart University (Education, Psychology, Social Work, Speech-Language Pathology, and Criminal Justice)
  • Boston University (Sociology)
  • Fordham University (Social Work)
  • New York University (Social Work)
  • Northeastern University (Sociology)
  • Oxford University (Sociology)
  • UMass Boston (Rehabilitation and Counseling)

I didn’t come to Sacred Heart as a Sociology major, in fact I didn’t switch until the end of my sophomore year, and it was the best decision I made. The amazing thing about the sociology department is that you know everyone, from classmates to your professors. The department became my home away from home. The professors and advisors show their dedication to you, as well as their passion about sociology, which only made me love sociology even more.

Where Can You Go with a Bachelor's in Sociology

Majoring in sociology paves the way for you to advance your career through combined programs and advanced degree pathways.

Earn Your Master of Social Work

Promote Social Justice
In Sacred Heart's online MSW program, you will be prepared for a career directly assisting those in need while also facilitating community change. Guided by passionate professors, eager to help you succeed, you will learn integrated, specialized skills in social work through direct clinical or community practice. You’ll also participate in a supervised field practicum to hone your skills for the real world.

More Information

The Latest in Sociology, Criminology & Criminal Justice

View More News

Begin Your Journey Take the Next Step