Sociology / Criminal Justice Degree
Sociology Degree
Learn how society influences individual behavior and understand how societies are structured.
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Welcome to the Sociology Department at McKendree University!
Students majoring in sociology develop a greater appreciation for how society influences
individual behavior and an understanding of how societies are structured. Majors develop
the skills to think more critically about their own lives and the many social issues
confronting us in society today.
Why a B.A. Degree in Sociology?
The bachelor’s degree in Sociology is an eye-opening program that will change how
you view the world and the societies around you. If you have a desire to learn about
how society influences individual behavior and the family issues that can seem invisible
in today’s culture, then Sociology could be the major for you.
About the Sociology Major
Housed under the Division of Social Science, the B.A. in Sociology offers students the opportunity to specialize in one of two major tracks.
General Sociology Track:
Geared toward students with general career plans and those who plan to attend graduate school in sociology.
Criminal Justice Track:
Designed for students who wish to pursue careers in the criminal justice field, such as law enforcement, corrections, and court services.
The Sociology major may be selected as a general social science option or secondary
and middle school teaching certification option.
A minor in Sociology/criminal justice is also available.
Why McKendree?
McKendree University provides you with interactive learning opportunities through
our small class sizes, experienced faculty, and unique internship experiences that
move you beyond the classroom. We are committed to your success in the degree programs
we offer, the internships and extracurricular activities that will set you apart,
and the college experience you’ll get here. Just 25 minutes from downtown St. Louis,
Missouri, McKendree University is located in historic Lebanon, Illinois, and affords
students a host of enriching cultural, career, and entertainment opportunities.
Program Highlights
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Two major tracks to choose from: Sociology and Criminal Justice
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Unique opportunities to conduct research with your professors and present papers at regional and national academic conferences
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Gain real world experience through a variety of exciting internships
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Sociology Club and honor societies enable you to meet others and enhance your resume
Internship Opportunities
Our Sociology students have many opportunities to intern with a diverse number of
local companies and organizations, such as:
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Violence Prevention Center
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Illinois State Police
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O’Fallon Police Department
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St. Clair County Attorney’s Office
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Grief Center at Family Hospice
Employment Opportunities
Sociology incorporates a wide range of job opportunities and more specified fields
of study, such as criminology, demography, cultural traditions, family relations,
social welfare, race relations, social status, and social change.
Some of the companies that our recent graduates are working for include:
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Hospice of Southern Illinois
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Illinois State Police
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Saint Louis Metropolitan Police Department
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Trinity Services
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U.S. Marshals of Southern Illinois
- Secret Service
Interesting Courses
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Police and Urban Society
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Sociology of Gender
- Popular Culture
- Criminology
Club Information / Honor Societies
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Sociology Club - Connect with other students in this social co-curricular organization that promotes a greater understanding of sociology and social justice.
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Alpha Kappa Delta (International Sociology Honor Society)
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Pi Gamma Mu (International Social Science Honor Society) - Student members enjoy enriching activities, service projects, publications, guest lectureship grants, and scholarship programs.
Professional Organizations
As a student you will have the opportunity to join, attend, and present at many professional
meetings. Some examples include:
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American Sociology Association
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American Society of Criminology
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Illinois Sociology Association
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Midwest Sociological Society
Related Programs
Your Student Success Support Team
Key Faculty
Associate Professor
Carnegie Hall 104
(618) 537-6904
sphagan@mckendree.edu
Professor
Carnegie Hall 111B
(618) 537-6849
pnquisenberry@mckendree.edu
Assistant Professor
Carnegie Hall 103
(618) 537-6891
rsswink@mckendree.edu
