Sociology

The Sociology program at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth exploration of the social structures, institutions, and interactions that shape human behavior and society. Through a comprehensive curriculum combining theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods, students gain critical insights into the complexities of social life across different contexts and cultures. The program emphasizes the development of analytical and quantitative skills necessary for rigorous social analysis, preparing graduates for careers in academia, public policy, social research, and community engagement. Students have the opportunity to study a wide range of topics, including social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, family dynamics, social change, and global social issues. The program encourages active engagement with communities and encourages students to apply sociological concepts to real-world problems through fieldwork, internships, and collaborative research projects. Dartmouth's intimate college environment fosters close interactions with faculty members who are leading scholars in their fields, allowing for personalized mentorship and guidance. The Sociology major also provides a solid foundation for those considering graduate studies, offering advanced courses in social theory, quantitative analysis, and qualitative research methods. Overall, the program aims to cultivate socially conscious individuals equipped with the knowledge and skills to analyze and address some of the most pressing social challenges facing society today.

The Sociology program at Dartmouth College offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to explore the social structures, institutions, and interactions that shape human behavior and society. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including social inequality, race and ethnicity, class, gender, deviance, and social change. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and empirical research skills, encouraging students to analyze social phenomena critically and systematically.

Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to study classical sociological theories as well as contemporary issues affecting communities locally and globally. The curriculum includes courses such as Introduction to Sociology, Social Theory, Research Methods, and specialized seminars in areas like Urban Sociology, Sociology of Education, and Medical Sociology. These courses aim to provide students with a solid grounding in qualitative and quantitative research techniques, enabling them to design and conduct original research projects.

The program also emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging students to apply sociological concepts through internships, community engagement, and collaborative research projects. Dartmouth's small class sizes foster close interaction between students and faculty, facilitating personalized mentorship and tailored academic guidance. Many students complement their major coursework with minors or concentrations in related disciplines like Anthropology, Government, or Environmental Studies to broaden their understanding of social issues.

graduates of the Dartmouth Sociology program pursue diverse career paths, including roles in social research, public policy, community development, education, and non-profit organizations. Graduate schools in sociology, law, social work, and public administration are also common destinations for those seeking advanced study. The program prepares students to think critically about societal challenges and to contribute thoughtfully to social progress through informed analysis and active engagement.

The Sociology program at Dartmouth College requires students to complete a set of core courses designed to provide a strong foundation in sociological theory, research methods, and contemporary issues. Students are expected to enroll in introductory sociology courses to gain an overview of the discipline, followed by intermediate and advanced courses that delve into specific areas such as social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender studies, urban sociology, and social institutions. In addition to coursework, students must undertake original research projects, often involving data collection, analysis, and presentation, to develop practical skills in empirical investigation. The program emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research skills, and effective communication of sociological findings. Students are also encouraged to participate in seminars and workshops that expose them to current debates and innovative methodologies within sociology. A capstone project or thesis is typically required for completion of the major, allowing students to demonstrate their cumulative knowledge and research competency. Electives are available in related fields such as anthropology, political science, and history, enabling interdisciplinary approaches to social issues. To fulfill graduation requirements, students must complete a minimum number of credits in sociology courses, maintain satisfactory academic standing, and engage actively in departmental activities. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in social research, public policy, community organizing, or advanced studies in graduate programs. Throughout their coursework, students benefit from close faculty mentorship, access to state-of-the-art research facilities, and opportunities to participate in internships with community organizations and research institutes.

Funding options for the Sociology program at Dartmouth College primarily include a combination of institutional aid, scholarships, and external funding opportunities. Dartmouth College offers a need-based financial aid program designed to meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, ensuring that financial circumstances do not prevent qualified students from pursuing their studies. Students applying to the Sociology program are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile to be considered for institutional aid packages. These packages may include grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities. Dartmouth also provides merit-based scholarships, although the majority of aid is need-based, aligning with the College’s commitment to accessible education.

In addition to institutional aid, students may seek external scholarships and fellowships offered by government agencies, private foundations, and professional associations in the field of sociology and social sciences. Examples include the National Science Foundation (NSF) graduate research fellowships or discipline-specific scholarships offered by sociology associations. Students are advised to research external funding sources early in their academic planning to maximize their financial resources.

Graduate students in the Sociology program may also benefit from teaching assistantships and research assistantships, which provide stipends and tuition remission in exchange for support in teaching or research activities. These positions are typically competitive and awarded based on academic merit and departmental needs. Other forms of financial support include travel grants, research funding, and conference subsidies, aiming to support students’ professional development and scholarly activities.

Dartmouth College remains committed to providing comprehensive financial support tailored to each student’s circumstances, employing a holistic approach to aid allocation. Students are encouraged to consult the Office of Financial Aid and the Sociology department directly for personalized assistance and up-to-date information about available funding opportunities. The overall goal is to enable talented and motivated students to pursue their academic goals without undue financial hardship, fostering an inclusive and diverse scholarly community.

Sociology at Dartmouth College offers students an in-depth exploration of social behaviors, institutions, and structures. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how societies function and how social forces influence individual and collective actions. Students engage with a wide range of topics including social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender, religion, education, and urbanization. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research methods, equipping students with the skills to analyze social phenomena critically and rigorously.

Undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in advanced seminars, research projects, and fieldwork that deepen their understanding of contemporary social issues. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from history, politics, economics, and cultural studies to offer a well-rounded view of societal dynamics. Dartmouth’s small class sizes foster close interaction with faculty, many of whom are actively engaged in sociological research. Students are encouraged to pursue independent research projects, often resulting in senior theses that contribute original insights to the field.

The department emphasizes experiential learning, with options such as community-based research or internships that connect students with real-world social problems. Dartmouth’s vibrant academic community supports diverse viewpoints, promoting critical thinking and active engagement. Graduates of the Sociology program often pursue careers in social research, public policy, education, social work, or continue their studies in graduate programs. The program also aims to prepare students to become thoughtful citizens capable of analyzing and addressing complex social issues facing contemporary society.