Majors

SOCIOLOGY

Sociology is a vibrant and exciting discipline that prepares you to MAKE A DIFFERENCE in our society. The faculty and staff are committed to helping you develop personally and professionally into the “movers and shakers” that will positively influence the world of tomorrow. Our program focuses on CIVIC ENGAGEMENT, SOCIAL JUSTICE, AND GLOBAL CHANGE.

As a sociology student you can expect to gain a broad understanding of how societies operate, and more in-depth understanding of particular institutions, (e.g., health care, labor and industry, popular culture), and issues (e.g., environment, sex, gender, racism, globalization). Graduates of our program are well prepared for graduate school, medical and law school, and direct entry to the public and private sector.

Cross Cultural Experiential Requirement

Wesleyan’s program requires students to complete one academically supervised cross cultural experience; most often achieved through credit bearing international travel classes, but may take other forms (independent study, internship, etc.).

Department Activities, Off-Campus Trips, and Internships

Wesleyan’s sociology students are provided opportunities to travel to Washington, D.C. each semester. In addition, three community service trips to Bolivia are scheduled during the year as well as Alternative Spring Break experiences. Sociology majors and minors are encouraged to be active in a number of campus organizations and research projects and to complete an internship experience. Students have completed internships as such settings as: Women’s Aid in Crisis, Stockert Youth Center, U.S. State Department, Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs, hospitals, schools, legislative offices, and other human service agencies.

 

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Criminal Justice is an interdisciplinary major that includes courses in sociology, political science, psychology, and other disciplines. Students who major in criminal justice will learn to think critically and holistically about their chosen field.

The program prepares graduates for:

• careers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, and related areas
  
• further study in criminal justice, law, criminology, sociology, social work, and public administration
  

Career opportunities include police officer, federal law enforcement agent (F.B.I., Secret Service, Treasury, Drug Enforcement, Customs Inspector, Homeland Security), corrections officer, probation officer, parole officer, and with further graduate or professional education, prosecutor, public defender, and forensic scientist.

POLITICAL SCIENCE

Political science majors graduate with an understanding of how political scientists think, gather evidence, process data, and reach tentative conclusions. You will develop an ability to critically analyze the political world, learn effective oral and written communication skills, cultivate problem solving skills, and be exposed to a rich variety of perspectives and ideas.

Department Opportunities

Wesleyan political science majors have the opportunity to complete week-long fellowships with state legislators, attend national political conventions, participate in local political campaigns, and conduct polling research.