Sociology is the scientific and humanistic study of society as a whole and of human social organization in groups. The sociological perspective provides an important way to better understand the social world and how human beings come to think and act as they do.
The goal of the department is to guide students in gaining knowledge of the social order, how it affects them in their daily lives, and how it can be applied to their lives and vocations. Sociology majors develop an understanding of the theories of society and social groups, learn to create and use scientific tools of analysis, and practice the application of sociological concepts to the solution of social problems.
Students are encouraged to select as electives internships, independent study, special topics courses, and field studies. The department urges students to use Augsburg's metropolitan setting as a laboratory for learning. Internships and cooperative education enable majors to apply the theories and research skills of sociology while they explore career alternatives. Augsburg alumni who have majored in sociology are currently employed in research positions, human resources positions in both government and private corporations, criminal justice, and as professors of sociology. Others have used their majors as preparation for advanced study in areas such as law, the ministry, social work, urban planning, and human services.