In the Sociology department at Marshall, we look at sociology through many lenses. Humans are social beings and we live in a social environment. Sociology is the scientific discipline that studies that social environment, focusing on human behavior and social interactions of individuals, groups, organizations and whole societies.
Sociology is a science and was identified in the 1830s as one of the five “mother sciences,” along with astronomy, chemistry, physics and biology, and as such, overlaps with other social sciences. In our program, we maintain a unique, broad perspective that touches and incorporates all the others.
The Sociology program at Marshall University allows you to study your interests in the workings of society with minimal disciplinary limits.
Our Sociology B.A. offers an excellent preparation for professional degrees or other advanced degrees. Our program seeks to ensure that each student develops a solid foundation in the principles, theories and techniques of analysis in the discipline.
While allowing flexibility to accommodate students’ diverse interests, our curriculum ensures students are introduced to social theory, learn to employ the basic research methods of the discipline and take courses that provide a good orientation in the discipline—both in breadth and depth.
In addition to earning their B.A. in Sociology at Marshall, students also can choose to obtain their Sociology master’s degree. More info about the program.
- Find out which of our academic programs is right for you.
- Meet some of our current students and hear about their favorite Marshall moments.
- Receive invitations to special events for future students.
- Get help with the application and enrollment process.
Students use their training in theory and research methods to conduct a research or applied sociology project exploring a topic of their own interest.
A diverse set of faculty prepares students for a wide-ranging educational opportunity.
Class sizes are small enough that students like you can get one-on-one direction and instruction.
- Social Policy
- Education
- Nonprofit Agencies
- Union or other social movements
- Health Care
- Criminology
- Human resources management
- Organizational research