Shaping Society Through Organizational Understanding

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a concentration in Social Organizations offers an in-depth study of social structures, institutions, and group dynamics. This sociology degree program equips students with essential knowledge in sociological principles, research methods, and sociological theory, along with hands-on experience through internships. Core sociology courses include complex organizations, small group dynamics, and sociology of law, providing a strong academic foundation. Students can also choose from a variety of electives focusing on cultural anthropology, sociology of religion, medical sociology, sociology of education, and social inequality within institutions. This comprehensive social organizations concentration prepares graduates for careers in nonprofit management, corporate social responsibility, government agencies, and other organizational roles that require sociological insight and analytical skills.

Program Highlights

  • Capstone project integrates learning
  • Focus on applying theory and analysis to real-world organizational challenges
  • Flexible course options for students double majoring in Psychology or Social Work
  • Internship opportunities for real-world experience

Start Your Journey in Understanding Organizations

Explore how sociology shapes organizations and prepares you for real-world impact.

Turn Sociological Insight Into Impactful Experience and Career-Ready Skills

  • A student sits studying in the lobby of the Stevens Science Center.

    Develop Advanced Research and Analytical Skills in Sociology

    Emphasizing quantitative and qualitative research methods alongside sociological theory, the program equips students with the tools to analyze social structures, organizational behavior, and issues related to social inequality and diversity. Graduates are prepared for impactful roles in business, government, nonprofits, and community organizations.

  • Students engaged in a classroom discussion.

    In-Depth Sociology Courses on Social Institutions and Organizations

    Students explore critical topics including the sociology of law, education, religion, healthcare, and group dynamics. This focused curriculum helps students understand how social institutions and organizations function and influence society, preparing them for careers in social services, public administration, and organizational leadership.

  • Student speaking with an employer at the job and internship fair.

    Gain Practical Experience with Sociology Internships

    Our Social Organization concentration offers internship opportunities that provide hands-on experience in corporate, nonprofit, and government organizations. These internships allow students to apply sociological theories in real-world organizational settings while developing professional skills and building valuable industry connections.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes

Organizations are central to our human endeavor. Organizations allow us to come together and meet society’s needs and wants. The Concentration in Social Organization is intended to provide students with a focused understanding of how organizations influence behavior in a variety of settings, such as, corporate, small business, government, and not-for-profit entities. Through a strong theoretical and analytical foundation, students will learn how to address many of the issues that enfold organizations in our society. Students in the Social Organization Concentration are strongly encouraged to apply their classroom knowledge in the internship and the capstone courses.

What Can You Do with a Bachelor’s in Sociology, Social Organizations Concentration?

A B.A. in Sociology, Social Organizations prepares students for roles that require insight into organizational behavior and social dynamics. Positions may include:

  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Social Services Case Manager
  • Public Policy Analyst
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Community Outreach Coordinator
Student talking to an employer at a job and internship fair.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Sociology Required Courses - 18-21 Credits
  • SOCI 0101 - Principles of Sociology
  • SOCI 0250 - Research Methods I
  • or CRJU 0231 - Research Methods in Criminal Justice Credits: 3
  • SOCI 0251 - Research Methods II: Quantitative Methods
  • or CRJU 0313 - Statistics in Criminal Justice Credits: 3or GPS 0246 - Quantitative Methods for Social and Physical Science Credits: 3
  • SOCI 0300 - Internship in Sociology
  • GERO 0370 may be used to fulfill SOCI 0300 for students who minor in Gerontology.
  • SOCI 0335 - Sociological Theory
  • SOCI 0390 - Capstone in Sociology
  • or equivalent work in cognate field with approval from the Sociology Capstone Coordinator (Additional work may be required to meet the equivalency for sociology)
  •  *Students who double major in Psychology and Sociology may have SOCI 0250 and SOCI 0251 waived if they complete PSYC 0219, PSYC 0308, and PSYC 0319 with a B average and permission from the chair of the sociology department.Students who double major in Social Work and Sociology may have SOCI 0250 and SOCI 0251 waived if they complete SOCW 0204 and SOCW 0301 with a B average and permission from the chair of the sociology department.
  •  **Internship requirement can also be met through a cognate department with approval of the Sociology Internship Coordinator.
Social Organization Concentration - 18 Credits

Social Organization Required Courses - 9 Credits

Social Organization Electives - 3 Credits

Students must choose one elective from the following:

Additional Social Organization Electives - 6 Credits

Students must choose two additional electives from the following:

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 17:1

    student-faculty ratio

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries

Expert Faculty and Individualized Attention

Westfield State University’s Sociology Department prides itself on providing personal attention to each of our students. You’ll receive one-on-one attention and mentorship from faculty and administrators. Plus, we work with you to tailor your degree to fit your interests and professional goals.

Our sociology faculty have targeted expertise in global perspectives on the sociology of organizations; the sociology of culture, race, class, and gender relations; social inequality, collective action, and social change; and sociological theory.

Learn more about the department

Sociology, Hispanic, Liberal, and Interdisciplinary Studies Department Academic Awards Ceremony with smiling students and faculty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Sociology, Social Organization Concentration, B.A.