Sociology — Anthropology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology — Anthropology at the American University of Beirut offers students a comprehensive exploration of human societies, cultures, and social structures from both sociological and anthropological perspectives. This interdisciplinary program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of social behaviors, cultural diversity, and the complexities of social change within local and global contexts. Through a combination of theoretical courses and practical research experiences, students are equipped with critical thinking skills and a nuanced awareness of social issues that shape human interactions and institutions. The curriculum covers key areas such as social theory, cultural anthropology, research methods, social inequality, urban and rural sociology, and globalization. By engaging with diverse case studies and ethnographic research, students develop analytical and methodological skills essential for careers in academia, government, NGOs, and the private sector. The program emphasizes experiential learning through fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, fostering a hands-on understanding of social phenomena. Faculty members are distinguished scholars dedicated to mentoring students and promoting an environment of academic excellence, diversity, and intellectual curiosity. Graduates of the Sociology — Anthropology program are well-prepared to pursue advanced studies or to undertake careers that require a deep understanding of social dynamics, cultural contexts, and human behavior. The American University of Beirut’s vibrant campus community, strategic location, and strong alumni network further enhance the educational experience, providing students with opportunities for intercultural exchange, professional development, and impactful research. Whether interested in social policy, community development, cultural preservation, or academic research, students choose this program to develop a holistic and critical approach to understanding the social world.

The Department of SOAM strives to be a vibrant community of research and learning organized around a triple set of scholarly commitments: • Critical social theory • Rigorous methodologies of field inquiry for social research • Communication of knowledge and information that matters on a range of social and political issues During the three years, students take a wide range of courses covering the fundamentals of sociological and anthropological theory. Students are trained in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Students are encouraged to diversify their elective courses from a range of topics and issues, such: as politics, religion, health or art. Many courses also include a fieldwork component where students are expected to design and conduct research projects that take them outside the AUB campus.

Students completing 12 years of schooling and doing one of the following programs: High School Program, SAT program, AP program, IGCSE (O Levels), IB Certificate or any other school leaving certificate (other than Lebanese Baccalaureate) can apply to the freshman program at AUB.

The freshman program is a majorless year (2 regular semesters) whereby the student can take different courses and follow either a scientific track or a track in humanities. Once the student completes the freshman year, he/she gets to enroll in a specific major at the sophomore level based on his/her average or GPA.

To apply for regular admissions, the student needs to submit an undergraduate application along with the following documents:

a. SAT1 results
b. High school records during grades 10 and 11
c. Counselor/Teacher recommendation(s)/Extracurricular Activities/Other Achievements

Once the student is admitted, he/she will be required to present evidence of having successfully completed Grade 12 and show a level of proficiency in the English language by obtaining a minimum score of 573 on the paper based TOEFL OR 230 on the Computer Based TOEFL (OR 88 on Internet Based TOEFL), OR 500 on the University English Entrance Examination (EEE) OR 380 and above on the writing section of the OLD SATI (Jan 2016 or Earlier) OR 5.5 on IELTS (for IELTS we also requires an additional English Placement test to be done at AUB).   

AUB’s Office of Financial Aid has devised several types of need-based assistance programs. These include grants based on the financial status of the student’s family, student loans at low interest rates and favorable repayment options, academic merit scholarships, work study programs that allow students to finance their education while acquiring professional skills at various offices in the University, and assistantships for graduate students.

The AUB scholarship program ensures that students who meet the University's academic standards will have the opportunity to receive an AUB education.

AUB has always been committed to educating students from different nationalities, religions, races, and political persuasions. We are working hard to make sure that economic background is not a factor in the admission process. The University's liberal arts curricular and educational philosophy rests on the principles of intellectual freedom, scientific reasoning, and exposure to a wide range of ideas. AUB encourages concentration in a field of study and seeks to cultivate morally conscious citizens.

The Sociology & Anthropology program at the American University of Beirut offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to provide students with a deep understanding of social structures, cultural dynamics, and human behavior. Students explore various aspects of societies, including issues related to identity, development, and social change, through both theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods. The program aims to equip graduates with critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to analyze social phenomena and contribute effectively to community development, policy-making, and academic research.

Throughout their studies, students engage with diverse topics such as urbanization, migration, gender roles, and globalization, often culminating in independent research projects or capstone experiences. The program fosters an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from history, political science, and economics to enrich students' understanding of complex social issues. Practical experiences, including internships and fieldwork, are integral components of the curriculum, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

Faculty members are distinguished scholars and practitioners committed to academic excellence and research innovation. The university's multicultural campus environment encourages diverse perspectives and collaborative learning, which enhances students’ global outlook and intercultural competencies. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, international development, and consulting, among others.

In addition to coursework, students have access to numerous resources such as research centers, libraries, and networks that support their academic and professional development. The program also promotes active participation in conferences, seminars, and community outreach initiatives to broaden students’ understanding and engagement with contemporary social issues. Graduates of the Sociology & Anthropology program at AUB are well-equipped to analyze and address societal challenges, foster social justice, and contribute to the development of inclusive and sustainable communities worldwide.