Sociology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at Purdue University offers students a comprehensive understanding of social behavior, institutions, and structures that shape human interactions across diverse communities worldwide. Through this program, students will explore the foundational theories and methodologies of sociology, gaining valuable insights into topics such as social inequality, social change, urbanization, deviance, family dynamics, and race and ethnicity. The curriculum combines rigorous academic coursework with practical research experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced perspective on societal issues.

In addition to core courses, students are encouraged to pursue electives aligned with their interests, including areas like gender studies, environmental sociology, and global social issues. The program emphasizes experiential learning through research projects, internships, and community engagement, preparing graduates for careers in social research, public policy, community development, and various roles within nonprofit organizations or government agencies. The faculty comprises experts in various sociological fields dedicated to mentoring students and fostering an environment of inquiry and social responsibility.

Graduates of the Sociology program at Purdue are equipped not only with a deep understanding of social dynamics but also with the skills necessary to analyze complex social data, contribute to meaningful societal change, and adapt to evolving social challenges. Whether students aim to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce directly, this program provides a solid foundation for a wide range of professional paths, emphasizing the importance of understanding human behavior within diverse social contexts.

• SOC 600 (Development of Sociological Theory)
• SOC 580 (Methods of Social Research I)
• SOC 591 (Proseminar in Sociology)(1 credit)
• Graduate Elective* (3 credits) 
• SOC 602 (Contemporary Sociological Theories)
• SOC 581 (Methods of Social Research II)
• SOC 591 (Proseminar in Sociology)(1 credit)
• Graduate Elective* (3 credits) 
• SOC 680 (Advanced Social Research Methods ‐ Multivariate Statistics) or
• SOC 686 (Qualitative Research Methods)**
• SOC 695 “Analytic Project in Sociology” (3 credits)
• Graduate Elective* (3 credits) 
• SOC 695 (Analytic Project in Sociology)(6 credits)
• SOC 610 (Seminar on Teaching Sociology)(3 credits) 

• Grades: You must upload to the online application transcript(s) and/or academic document(s) for every institution of higher education you attended regardless of whether or not a degree was received. If a degree was received then it must be printed on the trasncripts. If no degree conferral is printed on the transcripts then a copy of the original diploma (degree certificate) is needed. If the documents are not in English, you must upload an English translation certified by the college or university which issued it. For more information about transcript requirements please click here. Please note: **If personal identifying information such as a student identification number or social security number appear on the document, either remove this information from your electronic version of your document or mark out the information in black ink before scanning your document.** The uploaded transcript and/or academic document must be from the official version of the document. An official transcript bears the original signature of the registrar and/or the original seal of the issuing institution. An unofficial transcript printed from your current/previous institution(s) student system is not an acceptable document. For tips about uploading your transcripts into the online application click here. A minimum of 3.0 ("B") undergraduate cumulative GPA is required for admission.

• Aptitude Test Scores: All required test scores must be transmitted to Purdue University by ETS prior to the application deadline. The institution code for Purdue University West Lafayette is 1631. Because ETS transmission may take several weeks, applicants should contact ETS as soon as possible to request that test scores be reported to Purdue University. 
   
  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are required for all applicants. 
   
  • English Proficiency Scores (Revised May 2012) All international degree-seeking applicants are required to submit proof of English proficiency.  We accept the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic scores for admission.  The minimum score requirements are at https://www.purdue.edu/gradschool/prospective/gradrequirements/westlafayette/soc.html.
   
  • NOTE: The Sociology department requires valid English proficiency test scores from all international applicants applying to the graduate program. No waiver will be considered.  The department will NOT waive this requirement even for applicants who have received a baccalaureate, graduate, or professional degree from a U.S. institution within the past 24 months & in addition the department MAY require those admitted to take Purdue’s OEPP test. Effective May 2014; the minimum English speaking score in the TOEFLiBT is 25.
     
• Letters: Three letters of recommendation are required. The letters should be from persons who can assess your academic potential such as a college or university professor. Please do not include letters from employers, academic counselors, or individuals in the community.

• Personal Statement: A brief statement of scholarly interests is required. Your statement, approximately 300-500 words long, should indicate your purpose for undertaking graduate study and professional work in sociology. The statement should also identify the area(s) of concentration or specialization that attract you to the sociology program at Purdue.

• Writing Sample: A sample of written work in English (e.g., a senior thesis, term paper, or published paper about 10-25 pages, double spaced) providing evidence of potential independent research and writing.

• CV/Resume: Attach a current CV/Resume.

Scholarships

Completed applications submitted by the deadline of December 31st will be considered for the full range of fellowships and assistantships. Applicants to the graduate program are automatically considered for departmental funding. No separate application or additional information is required.

The sociology program offers financial support in the form of a teaching assistantship (TA), a research assistantship (RA), or a fellowship on a competitive basis to qualified students.

The Sociology program at Purdue University - West Lafayette offers students a comprehensive education in understanding the structure and dynamics of societies, human behavior, social institutions, and social change. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills, critical thinking, and a broad perspective on social issues that are relevant both locally and globally. Students have opportunities to examine topics such as social inequality, race and ethnicity, gender studies, urban development, family dynamics, and social policy. Purdue's sociology faculty are engaged in cutting-edge research, which enriches the classroom experience and provides students with insights into current social challenges and innovative solutions. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in research, community development, social services, public policy, or further academic pursuits. Students can choose from an undergraduate bachelor’s degree (B.A. or B.S.) in Sociology, often with options for specializations or minors in related fields. The university provides excellent resources, including access to research centers, labs, and collaborative projects that enable students to gain hands-on experience. Internships and fieldwork are encouraged, giving students real-world exposure to social organizations and government agencies. Additionally, Purdue's strong interdisciplinary approach allows sociology students to collaborate with departments like Psychology, Political Science, Communications, and Environmental Science. After graduation, alumni find opportunities across various sectors, including nonprofit organizations, government agencies, private corporations, and academia. The program aims to develop socially conscious citizens with a rigorous understanding of social processes, capable of contributing positively to society and addressing social issues with knowledge and empathy.