As a sociology major at NSU, you'll study the forces that mold individuals, shape behavior, and determine social events.
The NSU sociology bachelor's degree program includes emphases on criminal justice or human services. As a sociology major, you'll be prepared for jobs in fields such as law, law enforcement, social welfare, business administration, education, communications, and advocacy.
Pursuing a sociology major at NSU, you'll learn:
- The ability to write and speak well;
- Computer literacy and familiarity with data entry and analysis;
- Cross-cultural understanding and the ability to interact with people from diverse backgrounds;
- Interpersonal skills with an emphasis on leadership; and
- Research skills to analyze and synthesize information.
Our low faculty-to-student ratio means individualized attention for students inside and outside of the classroom.
Also, NSU sociology majors are now eligible for priority admission into Northern's counseling master’s program!
Earn a master's degree in five years
A new collaboration with the University of South Dakota allows Northern students to get a sociology degree and master of social work degree in just five years!
In our 3+2 program:
- Complete a sociology degree in three years at Northern
- Then, seamlessly transition into the master of social work (MSW) program at USD to complete a MSW degree in two years
Learn more about the process and courses at Sociology-MSW Program.
CAREERS
Sociology majors with a bachelor's degree work in a variety of occupations - many as social workers, administrators, protective service workers and nonprofit or government workers; and in other service, managerial and management-related occupations.
Potential jobs include law, policing, social welfare, business administration, education, communications, advocacy, community organizers and activists, human services, probation officers and correctional treatment specialists, sociologists and public interest advocates.
Many sociology majors go on to earn master's degrees in social work, psychology, counseling or business. A master's degree is typically required for social work positions in health and school settings and for clinical work. Learn more at NSU Graduate Studies.
For more information on careers in your major or help choosing a major, contact Career Services.
INTERNSHIPS
Through internships, we foster relationships for our students in the Aberdeen and South Dakota communities - relationships that cultivate career opportunities. Sociology majors observe professionals at work and gain practical job experience during the program's field experience component. Students will complete a minimum of 1-credit hour field experience (SOC 396) or take part in our Traveling Classroom (SS 360) experience.
All NSU sociology majors are encouraged to consider completing an internship for course credit. Internships are a proven way to gain relevant knowledge, skills, and experience while establishing important career connections. Students who have successfully completed either a paid or unpaid internship have a much better chance at landing full-time, professional positions upon graduation because these experiences provide a competitive edge and are highly valued by employers.
SCHOLARSHIPS
The Chuang Scholarship is awarded annually. Other scholarship opportunities are available to sociology majors each academic year.