Sociology

How do social forces shape people’s lives? What are the dynamics of social and cultural change? What are the sources and consequences of social inequality?

Study sociology at Colby and engage in intense classroom discussions, learn from your professors and peers, and conduct extensive research on persistent social problems.

About Sociology

Students in the Sociology Department study social life in all its fascinating complexity. Majors and minors select from courses on a wide range on topics relevant to what’s happening in the world right now: inequality, religious conflict, political polarization, police reform, immigration, race relations, and more.

With guidance from professors, students closely analyze institutions, organizations, and social change, and develop job-relevant expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methods, including advanced data analytics and visualization.

Classes in the department are small, and students learn from one another through group discussions in which participation is expected and encouraged. Sociology provides preparation for active participation in the private and public sectors of a dynamic society, an increasingly diverse democracy, and an even more diverse global community.