Sociology

Building on core knowledge in social theory and research methods, master’s and doctoral students specialize in subfields within Sociology, pursuing original research that contributes to the field and lays the foundation for careers in academic research, teaching, and nonacademic settings. Faculty and students are pursuing research in Global and Comparative Sociology; Culture; Organizations, Networks, and Markets; Family; Gender and Sexuality; Race and Ethnicity; Urban Communities; Health and Medical Sociology; Inequalities; Political Sociology; Economic Sociology; and Law, Crime, and Punishment. The Department of Sociology promotes interdisciplinary and comparative research, and our areas of expertise build upon other programs and centers across the University, including the African American Studies Program, the Initiative on Cities, the Pardee School of Global Studies, the Questrom School of Business, the School of Public Health, Wheelock College of Education & Human Development, and the Women’s, Gender & Sexuality Studies Program.

For more information about department strengths and faculty, please visit our website.

The department provides informal gathering spaces and ample administrative support for students’ work. The department collectively meets for a monthly Seminar Series as well as a number of workshops throughout the term, including a “Works-in-Progress” workshop for papers authored by faculty and students. Students also may apply for small grants to support their research-related expenses and travel.