What is sociology?
Sociology is the study of human and social relations in all kinds of populations. Sociologists study the changing and stable patterns of social interaction, values and attitudes as reflected in race relations, crime, urbanization, migration and in institutions, such as religion, science and the family.
What can I do with a major in sociology?
A major in sociology contributes to a liberal arts education by orienting you toward increased understanding of human social groups and the methods and techniques for analyzing these social units. Offering valuable preparation for a variety of professions and service occupations, the sociology major is designed to meet the needs of two general categories of students. First, it meets the needs of those students who have a general interest in sociology as a background for understanding human society and behavior. Secondly, the major prepares those students interested in careers in professional sociology.
Are graduates from the Department of Sociology and Social Work able to find jobs and gain admission to graduate schools?
In the past three years, all of the surveyed alumni from the department have reported that they were well prepared or very well prepared for careers or graduate school in sociology, social work or closely related areas.
What is the social work major?
As a social work major, you’ll study the network of social organizations designed to meet various needs. You’ll learn the practical, technical, ethical and theoretical skills necessary to serve “at risk” individuals and groups. From the Christian perspective, you will begin to think of people holistically -- understanding how their lives and environments work together. And, because social workers must oftentimes make crucial decisions by themselves, you will be encouraged to think independently and carefully. Finally, you’ll obtain the knowledge necessary for graduate school or work in a wide array of agencies, organizations or social services.
Is the social work program at Asbury College accredited?
Yes! Asbury College's social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). As such, it is recognized as preparing social work professionals who are competent at and committed to addressing complex human service needs.
CSWE is a nonprofit national association representing over 3,000 individual members as well as graduate and undergraduate programs of professional social work education. Founded in 1952, this partnership of educational and professional institutions, social welfare agencies and private citizens is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation as the sole accrediting agency for social work education in the United States.
For more information, visit www.cswe.org.
How can I become a social work major?
Those students wishing to become a social work major should declare their interest by the spring semester of their sophomore year, but no later than the start of their junior year. To be admitted into the social work program, students must complete the following process:
- Have and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Complete an application form.
- Receive clearance from the Office of Student Development concerning acceptable moral and ethical behavior.
- Be recommended by three friends or family members.
- Be recommended by one non-social work faculty member.
- Be interviewed by two social work faculty.
- Be recommended by social work faculty for entrance into the major.
As a sociology or social work major, will I have opportunities outside the classroom to put my skills into practice?
Yes! In fact, if you are a social work major, you’ll be required to participate in at least two field practica as part of your curriculum. These on-site experiences at various social services agencies allow you to gain on-the-job know-how and understanding. As a sociology major you can participate in an optional, off-campus internship or work on a special project involving research and field study. Students from both majors are encouraged to participate in local, domestic or overseas mission trips. Many students choose to work locally with disadvantaged children, elderly people or pregnant women seeking abortion alternatives. Others head to Chicago to spend time with homeless families or alcoholics in recovery programs at Olive Branch Mission. Still, many choose to spend summers volunteering in places like Costa Rica, Ecuador, Jerusalem and Africa or conducting field research.