Sociology studies patterns of relationships among people, how behavior is shaped by these patterns of relationships, and how conflicts and cooperation among groups affect social structure and effect social change. Sociology majors are introduced to the most important ideas, methods, and findings of sociology in the introductory courses, explore basic subareas of sociology in the lower division courses, and pursue specialized study in the upper-division courses.

In research and teaching, the Department's faculty emphasize empirical sociological research in such areas as small groups, organizations, work, art, world systems, gender, family, and social networks. The faculty is particularly strong in the areas of social structure and social inequality. For more information on undergrad research, please click here.

For degree requirements, please see the current year UCI Course Catalogue.