The sociology program emphasizes “public sociology,” or, taking the disciplinary skills of sociology outside of higher education into the public sphere for the purpose of contributing to the greater good. Public Sociology links the formal study of sociological phenomena done in higher education and professional social science research to various audiences in the public.
Goals Include Engaging With
- Public awareness of sociological research
- Social activism and responsible citizenry
- Social policy and social service organizations
Assumption’s sociology program helps students better understand the richness and diversity of social life in an increasingly interconnected, complex, and multicultural world. Through both courses and co-curricular activities, department faculty provides students with ways to think critically about their world, their society, and themselves. Students acquire new and different ways of looking at the human community, including an appreciation of the social patterning of behavior; an understanding of the development of communities; an awareness of the functions and dysfunctions of societal institutions; and a deeper comprehension of the diverse ways of being human.
The program is designed to allow students to explore sociological contributions to understanding social change and solving social problems. A major in sociology prepares students for graduate study in the field of sociology, as well as for graduate study in related fields such as social work, policy analysis, public health, education, law, journalism, and criminal justice. The sociology major also provides an important background for a wide range of occupations in which knowledge of human behavior, social relationships, and institutional practices are important.
In acquiring competencies in the methodological and theoretical approaches of sociology, students have the opportunity to explore human relations in their most fundamental as well as their broadest scope, from the dynamic intimacy of small groups to the structures of entire societies.
Learning Goals for Sociology Majors
- Develop an understanding of how the discipline of sociology can be taken out into the public for the greater good.
- Better understand how social inequality is based upon divisions in class, race, ethnicity, gender, age, and sexual orientation.
- Develop an understanding of sociological approaches to analyzing and addressing the complex interactions between individuals and societal, historical, and cultural forces.
- To gain specific competencies in social research as related to the field of sociology.
- To acquire the essential skills necessary for successful careers and post-graduate education.
Angela Kaufman-Parks, Ph.D.
Faculty
Experiential Learning
Assumption's Rome Campus
At Assumption's campus in Rome, Italy, the city and the country become your classroom through daily and weekend-long excursions throughout "the eternal city" and the Italian countryside. This unique study abroad experience will enrich your academic and cultural pursuits as you walk in the footsteps of emperors and gladiators then enjoy delectable Italian cuisine or perhaps a cappuccino after class in a local cafe. (Did you know that your financial aid follows you to Rome?)
Explore the Rome CampusLearn the Skills Employers Seek
Faculty/Student Research
The Assumption curriculum encourages scholarly and real-world experience. With hands-on research conducted alongside faculty mentors, students gain a depth of knowledge and skills that lead to professional success and personal fulfillment.Study Abroad
At Assumption University, the world is your classroom. Students can study and explore abroad in over 50 places from Vienna to England, South Africa, and even our own campus in historic, yet modern, Rome, Italy. Assumption’s study abroad program offers culture, history, and a living classroom for all.Internships
Assumption starts planning for your future the day you arrive on campus. Our Career Development and Internship Center helps students secure exciting and fulfilling internships where you’ll apply knowledge obtained in the classroom in a professional setting, preparing for a future career or additional study. Assumption connects students to internship opportunities in corporations, government agencies, research hospitals, non-profit organizations, and more.Pathways to Success
Bose Corp
Brown Rudnick LLP
Catholic Charities
Central Massachusetts Agency on Aging
Connecticut Public Radio
Easthampton Public Schools
Education First
Fidelity Investments
Glastonbury Public Schools
Hartford Healthcare
Massachusetts Department of Children & Families
Worcester Public Schools
First-rate Academics in a Catholic University Setting
Assumption University awakens in students a sense of wonder, discovery, and purpose, forming graduates known for their intellectual seriousness, thoughtful citizenship, and devotion to the common good. Students are provided an education that shapes their souls, forms them intellectually, and prepares them for meaningful careers. Enlivened by the harmony of faith and reason, here, students’ minds and hearts are transformed.