"Gallaudet shaped me to be independent, step out and explore, work hard and develop my interests."
-Camillia Lynch, '15
Internship: Deaf Services, South Carolina Department of Mental Health
B.A., Sociology with Criminology Concentration

Put Your Knowledge to Work

Why is there inequality in the world? Is the deaf community an ethnic community? Why do conflicts arise between different cultures? Does putting more people in jail reduce crime?

Sociology is the study of social groups and how they influence-and are influenced by-the people who live within them. As you examine different aspects of society, from families to governments, you will gain research, analytical and communication skills that prepare you for a wide variety of professions. Graduates have pursued careers and graduate study in business, corrections, government, health services, human rights, law enforcement, politics, social services and writing.

All sociology majors are required to complete at least one internship, working closely with a faculty advisor to find a placement that supports their specific career goals.

See list of all Gallaudet majors

Keep reading to learn more about the sociology program and career outcomes.

Courses and Degree Requirements

Internships

Sociology majors are required to complete an internship to gain practical experience that supports their long-term professional goals. Students have interned in a wide range of settings, including state-level offices of child and family services, educational program evaluation projects, prison case worker offices, police departments and law firms. Students interested in criminal justice benefit from Gallaudet's connections with federal offices, the D.C. Metro Police Department and other organizations.

Career Outcomes

All of Gallaudet's recent history, philosophy and sociology majors are employed (67 percent) or in graduate school (33 percent) within one year of graduation. Learn more about alumni of the Department of History, Philosophy, Religion and Sociology.

Training and Job Outlook

Most sociologist positions require a master's degree or Ph.D. Employment is projected to grow 15 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average for all occupations. Learn more.

Many sociology bachelor's degree holders find positions in related fields.

Social and community service managers need at least a bachelor's degree and some work experience. Employment is projected to grow 21 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average. Learn more.

Health educators need a bachelor's degree. Employment is also projected to grow 21 percent, faster than the average. Learn more.

Most social workers need at least a bachelor's degree in social work, although some employers may hire workers with a bachelor's degree in sociology or psychology. Employment is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, faster than the average. Learn more.