Why study sociology at Washburn?

When you major in sociology at Washburn, you will explore diverse cultures, perspectives and experiences. You'll learn the causes and consequences of changes in the world, plus, how to look at the world critically, ask good questions and determine the best methods to find answers. A degree in sociology will give you the skills to assess information, look beyond obvious answers, spot trends, conduct research and analyze data—skills that are increasingly in demand in a rapidly changing and technologically advanced world.

Washburn sociology graduates work in a variety of settings, including higher education, social services, business and law.

Career Forecast Stable OutlookAverage Salary $50,850on campus
Sociology students smile while working on a research project.

What is sociology?

Sociology is the scientific study of how human societies operate, how they change and how they impact people's everyday lives and experiences. Studying sociology involves looking at the world outside of our perspective to gain better understanding.

For example, why do trends in music, fashion and culture seem to evolve so quickly while bureaucracies, governments and businesses seem resistant to change? How does a person’s religion, age, childhood experiences or cultural background impact their life chances? These are the kinds of questions you’ll examine in your sociology classes.
Students and a sociology professor discuss a class project.

What sets sociology at Washburn apart?

  • Small class sizes and faculty interaction: You will benefit from personalized instruction and close mentorship from faculty, who are invested in your intellectual and professional development.
  • Directed research, independent study or internships: Under the guidance of faculty mentors, you can develop your knowledge and skills through research, independent study on a topic of your choice, or an internship. Funding is available through the Washburn Transformation Experience.
  • Local and global perspectives: Our program provides local connections and global perspectives, encouraging students to consider sociological issues at multiple levels. Students can connect to the local community through service projects and to the global community through study abroad.
  • Scholarship opportunities: The Sociology and Anthropology Department regularly awards scholarships to students actively pursuing a sociology or anthropology degree. All SOAN majors can apply for the SOAN Department Scholarship, and the Coates scholarship is specifically for Sociology majors.

Apply now

Apply to Washburn

Visit Washburn

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Admissions scholarships

Washburn University offers generous scholarships based on your interests, career aspirations, community service and academic success.

Department scholarships

The Sociology and Anthropology Department may award scholarships to students actively pursuing a sociology or anthropology degree.

Requirements:

  • Be a declared major in sociology or anthropology
  • Have an overall and program GPA of 3.0 or above
  • Fill out the scholarship application

To apply for the SOAN Department Scholarship, students complete a short application form sent out annually by the SOAN department chair during the spring semester.

Tuition and fees

Courses in this program are offered at the Traditional Undergraduate rate.

Financial aid

Washburn University offers generous undergraduate financial aid, including scholarships and grants.

Tuition waivers

If you don’t currently live in Kansas, learn about our Tuition Waiver programs that may qualify you for in-state tuition.

Fill out the Undergraduate Admissions Application and enroll to pursue sociology. It's common to declare a major in sociology at enrollment and then determine your specific interest.

After your preliminary course work, you’ll be able to participate in directed research, and an internship. Connect with your advisor and attend club events to make sure you find out about opportunities coming up!

Washburn Career Engagement provides several career fairs and career-readiness workshops, including resume editing and mock-interview practice.

Among graduates in the last five years, 17 percent have continued directly to graduate school in areas such as Library Information Science, Organizational Leadership, and Museum Studies.
Study abroad with sociology

"This is an amazing experience that I wish everyone would try sometime in their lives! Studying abroad is eye opening and exciting!"

Angelika, 2024 Explore Korea

"While it was not for a long time, the two-week period in which I was in South Korea was life-changing. Being able to experience a different culture helped me understand what different societal structures and achievements could be possible. It allowed me to see a bigger picture and more wide-scale thinking."

Ash, 2024 Explore Korea

"I am grateful to have been able to experience firsthand the lively lifestyle of the local communities and vibrant culture that South Korea had to offer. While in Seoul, I finally got an opportunity to visit museums, historical sites and K-pop events. That enlightened my understanding of Korean culture and gave me an opportunity to learn more about the citizens and their traditions."

Maria, 2024 Explore Korea

Set for success

CAREER FORECAST: stable outlook

Qualities for success

Curious

Interested in how/why society operates

Want to learn more about diversity and institutions

Social justice work

Student/faculty ratio

20:1

Specialized experiences

Community engaged research

Project-based learning

Issue-oriented service opportunities

Study Abroad experiences

GET IN TOUCH WITH Department of Sociology & Anthropology

Sociology & Anthropology Department
West Hall, Room 100
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621

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