About Us
Sociology seeks to understand all aspects of human social behavior, including the behavior of individuals as well as the social dynamics of small groups, large organizations, communities, institutions, and entire societies. Sociologists are typically motivated both by the desire to better understand the principles of social life and by the conviction that understanding these principles may aid in the formulation of enlightened and effective social policy. Sociology provides an intellectual background for students considering careers in the professions or business. Students may pursue degrees in sociology at the bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral levels. The department organizes its courses by areas of study to assist students in tailoring their education and research to their academic interests and career goals.
The B.A. program in Sociology provides students with the skills necessary to understand and address social problems and inequalities in global, institutional, and interpersonal social relations. At its core, the curriculum in the major is rooted in social theory and the scientific method. Sociology majors are given opportunities to develop a broad understanding of core sociological theories and the methodological skills used to evaluate human behavior and social organizations. Sociology provides an intellectual background for students considering careers in business, social services, public policy, government service, international nongovernmental organizations, foundations, or academia.
The Sociology major consists of a core curriculum plus elective courses intended to provide breadth of exposure to the variety of areas encompassed by sociology.
The Department of Sociology offers the following advanced degrees:
JD/Ph.D.: The School of Law and Department of Sociology conduct joint programs leading to either a combined J.D. degree with an M.A. degree in Sociology or to a combined J.D. degree with a Ph.D. in Sociology. For more information, see the Sociology web site, and the Law School web site on the J.D./Ph.D.
Coterminal M.A. in Sociology which is restricted to currently enrolled Stanford undergraduates
M.A. in Sociology which is available to Stanford students who are currently enrolled in other advanced degree programs. The department does not have a terminal M.A. program for external applicants.
People
Browse the people that work for Stanford's Department of Sociology.
Director of Undergraduate Studies: Michael Rosenfeld
Director of Graduate Studies: Jackelyn Hwang, Matthew Clair (Coterminal Students)
Connect with Us
Use these channels to learn more about our department and reach out to us.
Visit our website: https://sociology.stanford.edu/
Email us: sociology@stanford.edu
Call our main office: (650) 725-5772
Fax our main office: (650) 725-6471
Find Us on Campus or Send Us Mail
Department of Sociology
450 Jane Stanford Way
Building 120, Room 160
Stanford, CA 94305