Special Opportunities

Distinctions and Special Opportunities

The mission of the sociology program is to send into society men and women interested and engaged in the affairs of the world and able to appreciate, understand and inquire into the diversity and complexity of society. Sociology courses help students to appreciate how the ideas and methods of sociology enable them to understand their place in society.  In addition, faculty engage students in using the ideas and methods of sociology in course assignments, independent study and co-inquiry with faculty. Concordia offers an eight-course major in sociology and a five-course minor.

Sociology faculty recognize the accomplishments of outstanding sociology majors through the Farden Prize in Sociology. This prestigious award combines a certificate of recognition with a cash stipend. The prize honors the influential work of Dr. Raymond Farden, long-time Concordia sociology professor. A generous gift from another donor has established the Farden Student Achievement Awards which are designated to support activities outside the classroom that allow students to further their education in sociology. Activities funded by these awards include student participation in professional conferences, off-campus field trips and independent study. 

Bright Futures

By engaging students with the study of societies and social issues, sociology prepares students for careers in journalism, politics, public relations, business or public administration – all fields that involve investigative skills and working with diverse groups. Sociology also serves as an excellent pre-law major. Students taking sociology courses acquire the knowledge and transferable skills that can be applied towards being successful in each of these fields.

Recent graduates with majors in sociology include the director of Residence Life at Concordia; a youth development coordinator in the Twin Cities; a case manager for the North Dakota Department of Human Services; a youth pastor; and an advocate for an emergency assistance program in a major metropolitan city. 

Read more about how a sociology major can help prepare students for their careers here.

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