About
Sociologists observe, describe, explain and predict human social behavior. The Sociology (BS) - Families and Intimate Relationships degree at Appalachian State University focuses on family as a primary institution in our lives – affecting well-being, socialization, the transmission of rights and obligations, and the conferral of advantages and disadvantages. Students in this concentration will explore a range of family experiences in order to understand the causes and consequences of social, political and economic change for family life and how these changes impact the status of contemporary families.
Students are required to do an internship to gain practical experience in a more specific area of families and intimate relationships. The Department of Sociology has a strong network with local outreach programs to find appropriate host sites for student interests.
In this degree, students will learn effective writing and communication skills and practical application of theory. These skills are useful in a range of jobs, such as business, teaching and government.
After Graduation
Employment: Students are prepared for entry-level jobs in child advocacy, family planning, conflict resolution, work with at-risk youth and families, and child development programs. Graduates often work for the Department of Social Services, Public Health and other family-assistance non-profit programs.
Graduate School: Some graduates of this concentration go into graduate programs in sociology, counseling, family law, medicine, political science and criminal justice.
People
Related Programs
Minors
A minor is not required. Popular minors include: Psychology, Social Work, Communication and Non-Profit Management.
Engagement Outside the Classroom
Sociology Club - a student-led organization devoted to service learning, fundraising and hosting events for the betterment of students inspired by the discipline of sociology.
Alpha Kappa Delta - an international sociology honors society, formed with the intent to acknowledge and promote excellence in the scholarship in the study of sociology, the research of social problems, and such other social and intellectual activities as will lead to improvement in the human condition.
The North Carolina Sociological Association - open to all practicing sociologists (whether in academic, government or applied settings) as well as to sociology students at the undergraduate and graduate level.
Southern Sociological Society - open to all sociology students and professionals across the southern United States.
American Sociological Association - a national organization dedicated to sociology and its pursuit of investigating human behavior, social interaction and social structures.
Global Learning
Appalachian is committed to introducing students to different cultures and teaching them how to live and interact in a global society.
Department of Sociology faculty lead summer study abroad opportunities. Past program titles have included Studying War in Europe, and Religious and Ethnic Conflict in Ireland and Spain.
Admission Requirements
There are no admission requirements beyond admission to Appalachian State University. In order to progress in this degree, students must receive a grade of C or higher in the following classes:
- SOC 1000 The Sociological Perspective
- SOC 3885 Research Methods I
- SOC 3895 Research Methods II
- SOC 3950 Sociological Theory I
- SOC 3960 Sociological Theory II
- SOC 4450 Senior Seminar
Why Appalachian?
- This degree requires an internship. The Department of Sociology maintains relationships with community organizations in order to help students find appropriate host sites.
- Sociology majors have the option to work with a faculty mentor who can provide professional advice, intellectual development in terms of a specific substantive area in sociology, and involvement in research projects. Learn about faculty research specialties here.
- Students are encouraged to assist with faculty research projects and can stay up-to-date on current research projects via the department’s web page for research opportunities.
- The department offers scholarships.
Method of Delivery
On campus only
Careers
- Adoption Agent
- Aging Specialist
- Case Aid Worker
- Child Welfare Officer
- Community Relations Director
- Community Service Agency Worker
- Family Guidance Clinic Worker
- Family Preservation Case Worker
- Family Services Specialist
- Financial Aid Counselor
- Foster Care Worker
- Fund-raiser/Development Officer
- Group Therapist
- Marriage and Family Therapist
- Population Specialist
- Public Health Educator
- School Counselor
- Welfare Counselor
View more career possibilities
Contacts
Dr. Cameron Lippard
Chair
lippardcd@appstate.edu
828-262-6396