Sociology Major

About our program

Uncover how culture and society shape who we are and how we interact. As a sociology major, you’ll learn to comprehend the dynamics and complexities of human interaction and social arrangements. Learn from caring faculty who are published experts in topics like gender and sexuality, social class analysis, race and ethnicity, global capitalism, family, health, migration, social activism and the environment.

Internships and service learning will give you the chance to put your knowledge into action — and when you graduate you’ll join a global network of Marquette alumni who all look out for one another. Here, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the world. And you’ll learn to shape it for the better.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in sociology from Marquette?

About half of our sociology graduates go on to graduate and professional schools, while the rest enter the workforce. Here’s where some of our recent graduates landed. 

  • CDW
  • Marquette University
  • Milwaukee County Child Protective Services
  • Northwestern Medicine
  • Pathfinders
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
  • University of Wisconsin

collage of a building and faculty member talking to student

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.

 

Internships

Take advantage of our internship program for sociology seniors and put your sociology major into action with social agencies throughout the city.

You can also find some internship connections through the Klingler College of Arts and Sciences’ centers and institutes, such as the Center for the Advancement of the Humanities; Center for Peacemaking; Center for Urban Research, Teaching and Outreach; and The Les Aspin Center for Government. 

Learn more about our centers.

Undergraduate research

Here, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside faculty assisting with their research or conduct your own independent research project under the guidance of a faculty mentor. And you can present your findings at our annual student-led Research Salon.

Here are some of the areas Marquette faculty are researching now: 

  • Impact of social structure on violence 
  • Factors that shape homicide sentencing in Wisconsin 
  • Artifact collections from historical sites in and around Chicago

Learn more about undergraduate research at Marquette.

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the driver of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your sociology education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for you through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research.

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.