Explore the social world through distinct but related branches of knowledge in the social sciences. Focus on understanding society and culture through a comparative and historical perspective. Consider the impacts of global, regional and national developments on local communities.
Sociology and Anthropology are closely related disciplines that focus on our social and cultural worlds. Both emphasize understanding systems of inequality and power, and the interrelationship between global and local processes.
Sociology and anthropology provide an excellent basis for careers that emphasize social and cultural understanding: education, international business, law and the justice system, museums and historical preservation, politics and government, public administration and non-profit organizations, public health and health care, social work, and urban planning.
You'll also be ready for graduate work in disciplines including anthropology, law, policy studies, sociology, and women's studies.
Sociology & Anthropology majors may pursue a concentration in either subject area.
Sociology concentration
Sociology is the study of social behavior and the socio-cultural settings in which it occurs. As a student in the Sociology concentration, you will:
- examine the constructed nature of class, culture, ethnicity, gender, race, and sexual orientation
- learn how to conduct field research in local communities
- apply knowledge from research and theory to issues in the community
- develop critical insights into possibilities for social change
You'll complete 36 credits in courses related to your major, including a 3-credit internship, and 120 credits overall.
Anthropology concentration
Anthropology focuses on different aspects of culture and cultural differences, particularly in non-western societies or subcultures within the U.S. As a student in the Anthropology concentration, you will:
- analyze culture and power
- develop a holistic perspective
- study communities and cultures
- learn how to conduct field research in local communities
You'll complete 36 credits in courses related to your major, and 120 credits overall.
Non-Sociology & Anthropology majors may expand their career and graduate school options by minoring in sociology or anthropology and studying the world's societies and cultures.
For either minor, you'll complete 18 credit hours, consisting of 3 core courses and 3 electives.
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Genesis Barrientos received an Outstanding Student Award from the National BACCHUS Network for her work in peer health education.
Graduate School Placements
- Harvard Law School
- MIT
- UMass Dartmouth
- Yale University School of Medicine
Career Placements
- Action for Boston Community
- Alingsås kommun (Sweden)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- Family Service of Greater Boston
- Fulbright Commission (Brazil)
- The May Institute
- The New England Center for Children
- Southcoast Hospitals Group
UMassD advantages
We encourage our students to pursue their interests through community-based research, community engagement, independent study, internships, seminars, and thesis projects.
- Honors College: take advanced courses, pursue research, and be part of a community of scholars
- Study Abroad: earn academic credits and gain a global perspective on your field
- Undergraduate Research: faculty work with students on cutting-edge research projects
- University Studies: gain the benefit of a broad university education to enhance your knowledge and skills
3+3 Law degree: If you are thinking about law school, consider UMass Law's accelerated program. Your first year at UMass Law counts as your senior year at UMass Dartmouth.
Sociology & Anthropology Faculty
Study online
Online & Continuing Education at UMass Dartmouth offers an online degree completion program in sociology and anthropology.