Sociology
Leana Bouffard, Department ChairUndergraduate sociology majors will find that their experience at Iowa State University provides them with a well-rounded and practical experience that prepares them for a variety of careers. Students from all backgrounds and all areas of interest will feel at home.”
Impact
Sociology is the study of the development, structure and functioning of human society. In other words, sociological concepts can be applied to any future you can imagine for yourself. Sociology majors have been presidents, first ladies, professional athletes, civil rights leaders, lawyers—all making a huge impact on the world. Surprised? Among those influential and famous sociology majors:
- Michelle Obama, lawyer and former First Lady of the United States
- Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr., civil rights leader
- Maxine Waters, congresswoman from Louisiana
- Ronald Reagan, former President of the United States
- Regis Philbin, TV host
- Saul Alinsky, father of community organizing
- Alonzo Mourning, player for the Miami Heat
…and many, many more!
Experience
Students at Iowa State University can tailor their experience to gain valuable skills for the future.
Department events provide the opportunity to network with students and faculty so you can stay connected.
You can also find an internship that will help you hone your skills and add to your resume to make you a more marketable candidate for the kind of job you want.
A wide variety of student organizations and clubs are available for students to join—including academic, honor societies, political and activism, intramural sports and Greek life.
Gain leadership and service experience through the Student Activities Center, go to one of the many fun campus events like the Cyclone Carnival or learn more about clubs and activities at the annual ClubFest to learn how to involved during your time at Iowa State.
Students from every background can apply for departmental scholarships once a year to fund their education and better focus on what’s important—the student experience.
Your future
Where the future will take you is up to you. Graduates of the sociology program go directly into successful careers in activism, education, marketing, business—just to name a few—or continue their education at both the master’s and Ph.D. levels. Curious as to what jobs sociology majors take? Here are some examples:
- Victim Advocate, Iowa Domestic Violence and Victim Service Call Center
- Career Services Specialist, Drake University
- Associate Director, Diversified Management Services
- Donor Contact Representative II, Be the Match
- Service Representative, Thrivent Financial
Why Sociology?
Matthew Fully Quote
"My education in the Department of Sociology helped improve my research and writing skills, my ability to work on a team and as a leader, as well as my public speaking skills. Additionally, I learned how to use important statistical information/data to present facts both in and out of the classroom, and I gained a good insight in the introductory aspects of the law and government."
Matthew Fully
'17 criminal justice and sociology