Applied Sociology
Mercyhurst University's bachelor of arts degree in applied sociology provides a core of knowledge, first hand experience with conducting research, and the necessary social values to prepare students for careers or advanced degrees in the field of sociology. The program maintains an educational philosophy characterized by the sharing of learning between professor and student. Students with sociological research and theoretical skills will find themselves with a critical vantage point to prepare for the emergent occupational roles within our rapidly changing society. The department offers senior students options for a thesis, local internship, paid cooperative education placement or a Washington, D.C. internship. Topics of study include Sociology, Families in a Changing Society, Human Needs and Global Problems, Contemporary Social Problems, Sociological Research Methods, Human Trafficking, Contemporary Sociological Theory, Statistics in Social Science, and Diversity, Oppression, and Social Justice.
- SOC 214: Grief and Loss (3 credits)
- SOC 312: Services and Resources for the Aged (3 credits)
- SOC 475: Sociology Internship at an approved site serving older adults (3-6 credits)
- Three (3) Electives: Must support content on aging and be approved by advisor.
- SOC 100: Introduction to Sociology (3 credits)
- SOC 101: Contemporary Social Problems (3 credits)
- SOC 204: Diversity in Society: Oppression and Social Justice (3 credits)
- SOC 342: Global Problems and Social Change (3 credits)
- Three (3) Approved Electives (9 credits)
- SOC 101: Contemporary Social Problems (3 credits)
- SOC 204: Diversity in Society, Oppression, and Social Justice (3 credits)
- SOC 342: Global Problems and Social Change (3 credits) OR SOCW 307: Social Work Practice I (3 credits)
- SOCW 107: Introduction to Social Work (3 credits)
- SOCW 220: Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (3 credits)
- SOCW 304: Social Welfare Analysis (3 credits)
A 21-credit gerontology minor is offered for students wishing to enhance their chosen degree program. Students in this program must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA in minor courses. The course requirements for the gerontology minor include:
The program in Sociology maintains an educational philosophy characterized by the sharing of learning between professor and student. Students with sociological research and theoretical skills will send themselves with a critical vantage point to prepare for the emergent occupational roles our rapidly changing society is bringing forth. The department offers senior students options for a thesis, local internship, paid cooperative education placement, or Washington, DC internships.
A 21-credit Sociology minor is offered for students wishing to enhance their chosen degree program. Students in this program must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA in minor courses. The courses required for this minor are:
An 18-credit Social Justice minor is offered for students wishing to enhance their chosen degree program in gaining a holistic and hands-on approach to many of the injustices and societal complexities in our world today. Students in this program must maintain at least a 2.5 GPA in minor courses. The course requirements for the Social Justice minor include:
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an understanding of the theoretical background of the field Applied Sociology
- Understand the importance of different scientific research types to formulate research questions and demonstrate an understanding of data collection and analysis
- Demonstrate knowledge of social problems and their impact on human behavior and well-being
- Demonstrate skills in critical thinking and ethical decision-making
Elizabeth Sanders, MSSA, LCSW
Chair, Department of Applied Sociology/Social Work
Office: Preston 108
Meet the Faculty
Applied Sociology/Social Work
Maria Garase
Interim Dean, The School of Intelligence, Computing, and Global Politics; Dean, The School of Social & Behavioral Sciences; Associate Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice
