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Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how people interact within these contexts. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organized crime to religious cults; from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the sociology of work to the sociology of sports. In fact, few fields have such broad scope and relevance for research, theory, and application of knowledge.

An undergraduate degree in sociology provides background for a wide range of careers, including those in social service, criminal justice, corrections, business, human resources management, applied social research, and secondary education. A sociology major also prepares students for graduate or professional study in such areas as social work, urban planning, law, criminal justice, and social policy. Teaching positions in colleges or universities and research positions in academic, private, and governmental organizations often require advanced degrees in sociology. As such, an undergraduate degree in sociology provides an important foundation for these careers as well.