Dr. Jordan T. Brown
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Department of Sociology
jordan.t.brown@uky.eduSociology is the study of human behaviors and the interaction between human groups and institutions. Sociologists take an in depth look at social inequalities (including race, gender, and class); the environment; cultural traditions; family relations; health care; globalization; politics and social movements; and crime and justice. At UK, sociology students encounter these topics in the academic classroom but are also encouraged to get involved in the field. We offer numerous opportunities for participation in internships, research, volunteering in the community, and study abroad.
A Sociology degree equips students with marketable skills, such as the ability to:
Sociology majors are prepared for entry level positions in health services, non-profit organizations, law, criminal justice, and human resources. The Sociology major is also excellent preparation for law school and for graduate study, not just in Sociology, but also fields such as Public Health, Criminology, Public Policy, and Education. One Sociology graduate even became President of the United States!
Career opportunities in Sociology
Sociology emphasizes the study of human behavior and basic social processes. Courses offered in the major cover a wide range of topics and issues, such as social inequalities, work, organizations, economy, globalization, family, community, environment, crime, and law and deviance. Students may also pursue special readings courses and experiential education placements or internships through the department. The sociology major provides excellent preparation for careers in a variety of occupations and professions, including planning and community development, law, public relations and advertising, personnel administration, private business and government administration, health and human services, family relations, criminal justice fields, and others.
Any student earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree must complete a minimum of 39 hours at the 300+ level. These hours are generally completed by the major requirements. However, keep this hour requirement in mind as you choose your course work for the requirements in the major. Students interested in earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree must complete a minimum of 60 hours in biological, physical, mathematical and/or computer sciences. See the complete description of College requirements for a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Sciences degrees in the Arts and Sciences section of the 2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog.
Total Credit Hours - 30
Total Hours - 6
Core Requirements
Other Course work from within the Department
Course work from outside the Department
Total Hours - 42
Are you new to Undergraduate Studies and not sure where to begin? If so, we recommend starting with the Advising Syllabus. Need assistance "bouncing back" from academic probation? Visit our Rebound Page. Want to speak with an advisor about course registration, to find out about available resources for classes and major exploration, or just to check in? Schedule an Advising Appointment. How to Determine Academic Status
Sociologists study society and social behavior.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics | Click the link for more info.
Median Salary
$101,770
per year in 2023
Number of Jobs
3,300
in 2023
10 Year Job Outlook
100
new jobs (average)
Sociologists typically work full time during regular business hours.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Read MoreUnderstanding that over 70 percent of university students will change their declared major at least once during their college careers, the College of Arts and Sciences has developed an Exploratory Studies program for students who have yet to decide the specific field of study that most closely aligns both their personal interests and their professional career goals and objectives. The Exploratory Studies Program provides students with an extraordinarily diverse educational environment that includes coursework spanning Math and Natural Sciences, Humanities, and Social Sciences and provides students with the unique opportunity to explore multiple areas of interest during their first several semesters on campus. For more information please contact a recruiting representative at asrecruting@uky.edu.
While there are endless ways to create an unforgettable journey as a Wildcat, we can only think of one that gives you the chance to step outside the classroom and into exploring new parts of the world around you: participating in an Education Abroad opportunity! Whether it’s in a study, research, service, or internship program, taking your UK experience international with EA is the most hands-on way for you to expand your global perspective while making yourself a more well-rounded, marketable candidate to future employers no matter your field. As you take these first steps towards investing in your future, EA encourages you to take advantage of all the opportunities UK has to offer. Take a look at some of the many suggested opportunities UK Education Abroad & Exchanges has to complement your major! #ukyabroad
View Major Advising Page
Dr. Jordan T. Brown
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Department of Sociology
jordan.t.brown@uky.eduCollege of Arts & Sciences
202 Patterson Office Tower
