Analyze Society and Achieve Social Change
Sociology is the study of social structure and the causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate group dynamics, organizations, institutions, social identities, and daily human interactions. Sociology offers broad scope and relevance for research, theory, and the application of knowledge to address social problems in virtually any work environment. Sociology prepares students with marketable skills for work in both public and private job sectors including education, health, government, social advocacy, and research.
Mission
The UNC Department of Sociology is dedicated to the academic understanding and analysis of social, cultural and institutional aspects of human life. At its core, the sociological mission is rooted in social theory and the scientific method; we strive to empower students with the theoretical and analytical skills necessary to understand and evaluate society and social stratification towards positive social change. We prepare students for civic participation and work in public and private sectors of the economy including the areas of education, health, government, social welfare, marketing, and research. In addition, our department is dedicated to building sociological knowledge and skills that are applicable to advanced academic and post-graduate degrees.
News and Events
New Equity and Inclusion Certificate Launched
The Sociology department recently launched a new certificate in Equity and Inclusion, 12-credit hour program housed that verifies a solid grounding in diversity, equity, and inclusion, supporting pursuit of a variety of careers. This certificate will equip students to build self-awareness, examine others’ perspectives, address diversity issues in specific contexts, seek equity and inclusion grounded in social scientific evidence and theory.
Dr. Newman Attends White House Summit
Recently, Harmony Newman, Ph.D., professor of Sociology, joined Chelsie Romulo, Ph.D., of the Geography, GIS, and Sustainability department to attend the 2024 White House Summit on STEMM Equity and Excellence: Propelling Progress and Prosperity by 2050. The White House Office of Science and Technology and Policy and the STEMM Opportunity Alliance co-hosted the event to bring together leaders across multiple industries to discuss ways to increase diversity, equity and access to careers in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine).
Sociology Students Recognized at 2024 Honors Convocation
Students from the Sociology department were recently celebrated at the 2024 HSS Honors Convocation ceremony in February. Ashley Bristol, Zoe Foster-Kirchgessner, Aiden Krause and Faith Murphy were the honorees from Sociology. Congratulations to these outstanding students from the program!
Social Research Lab
The Social Research Lab was founded in 2007 with the purpose of serving UNC and the surrounding community by utilizing highly trained faculty and undergraduate and graduate students to produce affordable, customized research solutions. It reflects UNC's commitment to community engagement and experiential learning.
The SRL's two main goals are:
- To provide high-quality assistance with research design and implementation for research projects with non-profit, for-profit and municipal clients
- To provide training for graduate and undergraduate students in research methodologies and project management.
Diversity Statement
We are committed to inclusion and fighting inequities across race, ethnicity, gender, age, physical or mental ability, religion, sexuality, and other social identities that are marginalized in society.
Land Acknowledgment
The University of Northern Colorado sits upon the territories of the Ute, Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Lakota peoples. The University also acknowledges the 48 tribes that are historically tied to the state of Colorado. UNC appreciates this connection and has great respect for this land. Additionally, the University community pays its respect to Elders past, present, and future, and to those who have stewarded this land throughout the generations.
