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Bachelor of Science

Sociology

Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Three New Concentrations Coming Fall 2026!

The Bachelor of Science in Sociology at Georgia Southwestern State University is designed to familiarize students with the structure and functioning of society, develop a greater understanding and appreciation of diverse cultural groups, stimulate constructive analysis of sociological patterns, encourage research on human social behavior, and prepare graduates for productive careers in a wide variety of occupations and professions. Students may also choose to pursue Sociology as a minor, providing a valuable complement to majors across the liberal arts, business, education, and health sciences. Our streamlined program combines a clear path to graduation with personalized faculty mentorship and real-world learning opportunities. You’ll graduate with in-demand skills — communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and analysis — that prepare you for a fulfilling career.

Program Details

Sociology is the study of social life — the causes and consequences of human behavior, and the structures of groups, organizations, and societies that shape how we live and interact.

At GSW, our program goes beyond theory. Students examine identities, cultures, and institutions with an eye toward real-world application, graduating ready to work in fields from criminal justice to public health to policy.

  • Students will demonstrate understanding of core sociological theories and how social structures influence human behavior across cultures and institutions.
  • Students will apply research methods — including data analysis, surveys, and field observation — to investigate real-world social problems.
  • Students will communicate findings effectively through written reports, oral presentations, and collaborative projects.
Apply to GSW

Undergraduate Major

Bachelor of Science in Sociology

229-931-2311
psychsoc@gsw.edu

Social Info

Faculty & Staff

Sociology at GSW goes beyond the classroom. From internships to hands-on-research, you'll apply what you learn to real-world issues - building the kind of experience employers actually look for. Each year, students are given the opportunity to share their work at GSW's Undergraduate Research Symposium, putting their research in front of faculty, staff, and peers.

Explore Internship Opportunities

Explore the social and cultural forces that shape our world. Our streamlined curriculum offers flexible, efficient, and engaging paths to graduation. All students complete a shared 12-hour major core, then choose one of three 9-hour concentrations to tailor their degree toward a specific path.

Program Curriculum

Minor Curriculum

From counseling and social services to business, law, and public policy, sociology opens the doors to a wide range of fulfilling careers where you can work with people, solve problems, and make an impact. Possible careers include:

  • Research & Graduate Studies
  • Criminal Justice System
  • Law and Public Policy
  • Human Resources
  • Government Services

Degree Concentrations (Coming Fall 2026!)

Beginning in Fall 2026, students will have the opportunity to choose from three new concentrations, allowing them to tailor their degree to their individual goals and career aspirations.

The research concentration aids students in developing quantitative and qualitative skills for academic research, policy analysis, and data-driven careers.

The social work concentration prepares students for careers in human services, counseling, family support, and health-related social practice.

The general sociology concentration is offered to provide students the freedom to design a flexible program tailored to their interests, choosing from a wide range of upper-level sociology electives.

Concentration Requirements

Research Concentration

Course
SOCI 3331: Sociological Statistics
SOCI 4498: Research I
SOCI 4499: Research II

Social Work Concentration

Course
SOCI 3325: Intro to Social Work
Choose (2) of the following:
SOCI 3293: Sociology of the Family
SOCI 3308: Psychosocial Asp of Aging
SOCI 4230: Sociology of Health and Medicine
SOCI 4350: Family Violence
PSYC 4405: Theo and Tech of Counseling

General Sociology Concentration

  • Your choice of three upper-level sociology electives (3000+)
  • Fully customized to your goals

What Can You Do With a Degree in Sociology?

Explore career outcomes of GSW Sociology graduates, including top skills, employers, and job titles.

Career Snapshot for GSW Sociology Majors

Average Salary

$69,618

Top Employers

  • State of Georgia
  • Emory University
  • Flint Area Consolidated Housing Authority
  • Georgia Bureau of Investigation
  • Ervin Christie Consulting, LLC

Job Titles

  • Director
  • Social Worker
  • Adult Education Instructor
  • Child Protective Investigator
  • Counselor

Top Skills

  • Research
  • Outreach
  • Social Services
  • Medical Case Management
  • Crisis Intervention

Source: Steppingblocks, 2026

As a student in the sociology program, I’ve had an incredibly positive and meaningful experience. The professors stand out not only for their depth of knowledge, but for their genuine compassion and investment in student success. They take the time to break down complex concepts in a way that is clear and engaging, while also encouraging thoughtful discussion and critical thinking. It’s evident that they care about both the academic and personal growth of their students, which creates a supportive and motivating learning environment.

Jeslyn Olson Sociology
Leesburg, Georgia