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 100: Introduction to Sociology (Three credits)
- SOC 101: Contemporary Social Problems (Three credits)
- SOC 204: Cultural Differences (Three credits)
- SOC 342: Global Problems and Social Change (Three credits)
- Three approved electives (Nine credits)
- SOC 101: Contemporary Social Problems (Three credits)
- SOC 204: Cultural Differences (Three credits)
- SOC 342: Global Problems and Social Change (Three credits) OR SOCW 307: Social Work Practice I (Three credits)
- SOCW 107: Introduction to Social Work (Three credits)
- SOCW 220: Human Behavior and the Social Environment I (Three credits)
- SOCW 304: Social Welfare Analysis (Three credits)
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
EmmaLeigh Kirchner, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Social Justice & Community Health
Office: Preston 114
Meet the Faculty
Applied Sociology
Maria Garase, Ph.D.
Dean, The School of Social & Behavioral Sciences; Associate Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice
EmmaLeigh Kirchner, Ph.D.
Chair, Department of Social Justice & Community Health; Associate Professor, Criminology & Criminal Justice
