COURSE CURRICULUM

The sociology major at University of New Hampshire requires students to complete a minimum of 40 credits in sociology courses while maintaining at least a C- grade in each course and a minimum overall GPA of 2.0 in sociology coursework. The program combines theoretical study, research methods, statistical analysis, and practical investigation of social issues to help students understand how societies function and change. Core courses include SOC 400 Introductory Sociology, SOC 402 Statistics, SOC 598 Sociological Theory, SOC 599 Sociological Analysis, and SOC 601 Methods of Social Research. These courses provide training in social theory, data interpretation, research design, and analytical thinking. SOC 402 Statistics is required before taking SOC 601 Methods of Social Research, and SOC 599 Sociological Analysis must be completed before enrolling in advanced 600- and 700-level sociology courses. Students also complete five sociology electives, including at least two upper-level courses at the 600 or 700 level. Elective topics include criminology, family studies, race and ethnicity, juvenile delinquency, homicide, environmental sociology, mental health, drug use, social class, work and well-being, medical sociology, social sustainability, sexuality, justice, and communities. Students may also pursue internships, independent research, or senior thesis projects for hands-on learning and professional development. The capstone requirement can be fulfilled through an advanced sociology course, a research experience, or a senior thesis. Sociology majors may use two required major courses toward Discovery Program categories, and bachelor of arts students must also complete the foreign language proficiency requirement. The program develops strong communication, research, statistical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills useful for careers in counseling, healthcare, criminal justice, education, government, nonprofit organizations, public policy, social services, marketing, business management, and community development. Graduates are also well prepared for advanced study in sociology, law, social work, psychology, public health, counseling, criminology, or public administration.