Undergraduate Programs

The department offers three bachelor of arts majors: anthropology, sociology and anthropology, and sociology/social psychology. The three programs are parallel in structure and requirements and each consists of 40 credit hours of course work. The sociology and anthropology major is an interdisciplinary program for students desiring a wider familiarity with social science fields, whereas the anthropology and sociology/social psychology majors are for students desiring more traditional, disciplinary programs of study.

Research Opportunities. It is the explicit aim of the department to involve majors, minors and other interested students in the ongoing research activities of faculty members. Second-semester sophomore, junior and senior students interested in a supervised research experience are encouraged to consult with the department chair or talk with the appropriate faculty member. Course credit can be received for research experience.

Internship Opportunities. The department maintains close, working relationships with a variety of social agencies and institutions in the area. Majors can earn course credit by carrying out supervised work in field settings, e.g., hospitals, private and public agencies devoted to social services, courtrooms, prisons, etc. This useful experience allows a student to apply the concepts learned in the classroom to a field setting and to evaluate vocational aspirations and interests.

Senior Thesis. All majors are encouraged to do independent research culminating in a senior thesis; this is especially recommended for students intending to go on to graduate or professional school. The best time to begin discussing possible projects with faculty is during the second-semester of the junior year. The department chairperson should be consulted for further details.

Departmental Honors. To be eligible for departmental honors, students must have at least a 3.3 GPA in the major. In addition, students pursuing honors must take ANTH or SSP 399 and write a thesis during their senior year. Awarding of departmental honors is contingent on both the quality of the thesis, as judged by a department committee and the candidate's GPA at time of graduation.

Select from the majors below to view requirements for majors:
Anthropology
Sociology and Anthropology
Sociology/Social Psychology