Why Should I Choose Sociology and Anthropology?

Are you curious about different cultures and interested in how we collectively shape each other and our institutions? Our Sociology and Anthropology degree program will give you a structured way to learn about the social structures people create together, called social institutions. Our program focuses on the relationship between individual choices and social contexts, and introduces you to different cultures. Sociology and Anthropology emphasizes research and experiential learning. In your courses, you'll gather and analyze data about society and culture. Also, prior to graduating, you'll complete an independent social science research project.

And we highly encourage studying abroad. You can take advantage of our Term III travel classes to Latin America, South Africa, India, Iceland, and Southeast Asia.


What Will I Learn Through Sociology and Anthropology?

Sociologists investigate social institutions including family, education, the economy, medicine, and the media. Anthropology is the broad and inclusive study of human beings. At Elmira College, our degree program focuses especially on cultural anthropology, with introductions also to biological anthropology, archaeology, and linguistics. Both fields prepare you to understand the ways our individual choices are influenced by larger social forces.

Essential to the field of study is learning research methodology and, as part of the program, you'll be required to take a research and methodology course. In this class, each student carries out an original research project that includes interviews, observations, ethnographic field work, or content analysis. These projects become research papers that you will present to the public and sometimes go on to publish in a national journal.

Full Course Listing

You can also compliment a variety of majors and broaden your horizons with a minor in Sociology or Anthropology.

Anthropology Minor Courses Sociology Minor Courses


What Can I Do With A Sociology and Anthropology Degree?

Sociology and Anthropology majors are prepared for a wide range of careers dealing with people, cultures, and communities. Students go into careers in law, law enforcement, social justice work, education, social services, political organizing, international development, management, research, community development, museum, and archival work. Many bring their social scientific training to health fields, including public health and public administration, or they become educators.

More About Careers


"I’ve been taking a lot of sociology, psychology, and anthropology. Those courses specifically allowed me to broaden my mind. ... I’m hoping it will make me a well-rounded person, and I will have the ability and diversity to work in any situation with anyone."
–Alyvia Dunham '24


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