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Why Study Sociology and Criminology at Butler?

The Department of Sociology and Criminology aspires to be a cornerstone program in the social sciences, emphasizing writing and critical thinking, analytical skills, experiential learning and an in-depth understanding of the changing world, including diversity, multicultural and global issues.

Our majors are distinguished by

• A curriculum that emphasizes the connection between theory and practice. Students have numerous opportunities to apply what they have learned in the classroom to "real-world" settings and to everyday life.
• Majors that culminate in a senior capstone experience. Students develop and undertake an independent empirical research project in their senior year in which they demonstrate their mastery of sociology or criminology. Students present their research findings at the Butler Undergraduate Research Conference or a professional sociology or criminology meeting.
• An emphasis on social diversity, multicultural and global issues. Our curriculum introduces students to other cultures and societies and prepares them for participation in an increasingly diverse and multicultural world.
• Student participation in internships and service learning course. Internships in criminal justice, human services, businesses and community contexts provide students with practical experience and career opportunities. Service learning courses promote learning through the active participation of students in their local community.
• Student engagement in the research process. Students have a number of research opportunities through the curriculum and through faculty-student collaboration on research projects and participation in the honors program.
• A curriculum that prepares students for the job market and for advanced study. Graduates of the department work in a wide range of employment fields including human services, social policy agencies, the criminal justice system, health care and business. Majors also pursue advanced professional degrees in social work and law, as well as graduate degrees in sociology, criminology, criminal justice and other related fields. The department has an average placement rate for graduates of 90-100% over the last 10 years.
• Numerous student opportunities for engagement beyond the classroom. The department sponsors a chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta, an international honor society for sociology. The Student Sociology Association conducts community service projects such as tutoring disadvantaged youths and collecting food and blankets for the homeless. The association also sponsors speakers and a career and graduate school panel each year. Students also participate in the pre-law professional program.
• A diverse faculty of dedicated teachers and researchers. Faculty work closely with students and encourage student learning through experiences and application.