Sociology

Your Future in Sociology

Curious about people’s behavior? Interested in how diverse groups interact? Do you like collecting data and conducting statistical research? If so, you should pursue a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology at the University of North Texas.

A Sociology degree can prepare you for numerous careers in human services and corporations or for an entry-level research job as an interviewer or statistician. You can work as a social worker, career or family counselor, parole or probation officer, or in a community service area. Related careers are available in:

• Advertising and marketing agencies, manufacturing corporations and consulting firms
• Criminal justice organizations
• Government agencies, corporations and nonprofit organizations
• Hospitals
• Religious and youth organizations
• Universities and colleges

Some Sociology majors enter law school or pursue other graduate or professional training.

What we offer

We’ll provide you a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of social theory and research methods. This is accomplished through a combination of core and elective courses taught by recognized scholars in their field.

Our faculty members have published books, articles and research reports, presented research at national conferences and received research grants from the National Science Foundation, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Commonwealth Fund. They’ve also conducted research in Ghana, Guatemala, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Mexico, Malawi, Sweden and Togo. Their research interests include:

• Demography
• Economic sociology
• Environmental sociology
• Gerontology and aging
• Medical sociology
• Sociology of development and social change
• Sociology of disasters
• Sociology of the family and the life cycle
• Sustainable societies

You can apply classroom learning to real-world situations through our capstone course, internships and research-related projects. Our capstone course focuses on data collection, data analysis, applying theory and presenting the findings. The internship helps you address issues in developing countries such as fertility, birth control and recovery from natural disasters.

Our faculty members and students have been instrumental in improving health and social services in communities with high rates of illness, crime, substance abuse and teenage pregnancy.

Scholarships are available to help you pursue your education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic performance. Scholarship information is available on our website.

What to expect

You’ll complete 30 or 36 semester hours in sociology, depending on whether it is a BA or BS, which includes six required core courses. Some course work will focus on environmental sociology, developing societies, gerontology, medical sociology, race and ethnic relations, research methods and statistics, sex and gender, and sociological theory. You’ll be trained to understand the practical applications of sociological principles.

The Career Center, Learning Center and professional academic advisors are among the many valuable resources available to you at UNT. The Career Center can provide advice about internships, future employment opportunities and getting hands-on experience in your major. The Learning Center offers workshops on speed reading, study skills and time management. Academic advisors will help you plan your class schedule each semester.

How to enroll at UNT

High school students

Get detailed information on recognized high school graduation programs and SAT/ACT requirements.

In your senior year, apply for admission at ApplyTexas.org by the March 1 priority date and request that your high school transcript be sent to the UNT admissions office. Do you live out of state? For your convenience, you can apply through the Common Application.

Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate courses can count toward college credit at UNT.

Transfer students

If you're attending a Texas community college, you should consult our online transfer guides, the UNT Undergraduate Catalog and an academic counselor to review your degree plan. Proper planning will allow you to receive the maximum amount of transfer credits.

Our Transfer Center will help you make a successful transition to college life at UNT by connecting you with a peer mentor and other campus resources.