What is sociology?
"Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior" (American Sociological Association 2002:1). As a discipline, it systematically investigates how people are influenced by social structures and social forces. To study sociology is to consider the profound impact of institutions like education, the family, government, religion, and the economy. Sociology & Criminology faculty use a wide array of methodological strategies in their research and teaching, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods data collection techniques. The sociology degree provides students with the base of knowledge necessary for understanding society, social processes, social organizations, and social inequality in a changing world.
What is criminology?
Criminology is an area of study within sociology that examines the social causes and consequences of crime. Coursework focuses on the dynamics of victimization and offending, the operation of the criminal justice system, and the impact of income inequality and racial disparities on crime and punishment. Students will graduate from the criminology program with a deep knowledge of the criminal justice system, a systemic understanding of inequality, and strong data analysis and critical thinking skills. The criminology degree prepares students for professional careers in law enforcement, social services, law, applied research, and academia.
Study sociology and criminology if you would like to...
- Explore the dynamics and issues that affect broad swaths of American society.
- Enjoy vibrant class discussions--students are ideologically diverse, and professors are skilled at navigating complex, emotionally charged topics.
- Learn about the causes and consequences of structural inequality.
- Take courses with a broad array of peers, including large numbers of first-generation, non-traditional, or low-income students and many parents, veterans, and student-athletes.
- Develop a strong foundation in data collection and analysis.
- Strengthen your critical thinking skills and broaden your global perspective.
- Connect theory to research and coursework to internships.
- Study with faculty who contribute to the community. Many of them conduct research at organizations such as the Montana Board of Crime Control, Salish Kootenai College, the Montana Domestic Violence Fatality Review Commission, and the Montana District of U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services.