The sociology program at Dominican University offers two separate majors in sociology and criminology. These specializations: social analysis, social services and gerontology. These specializations are designed to underscore the centrality of race, class, gender, age and culture in the social organization of human behavior. The criminology major is oriented toward the social scientific study of crime, law and deviance. Both majors provide solid training for a variety of professional careers.

Either the sociology or criminology major would be appropriate for those interested in pre-law studies, because it is essential for tomorrow’s lawyers and paralegal professionals to become fully aware of the complex social forces that shape the legal order. From issues of discrimination and civil rights to the study of crime and deviance, social problems and the foundations of modern business, the study of sociology or criminology can be a vital prelude to graduate or law school or to a rewarding career in a variety of professional endeavors. Both majors require 36 semester hours chosen in consultation with a departmental adviser.

The Sociology Major

Sociology is the systematic study of social institutions and human behavior. As a social science, it uses a variety of methodologies to look at the way people organize their social activities at all levels of human life, from small groups such as families and communities to large-scale institutions including government, education, religion and the economy. The sociological knowledge that results from our efforts is useful in a wide variety of areas including organizational diagnosis, government policy making, research and evaluation, community organizing and corporate business. At Dominican University, there are three specializations available within the sociology major to provide attractive and career-enhancing options for all students.

Social Analysis

The specialization in social analysis is designed to provide the basic sociological skills necessary to prepare graduates for successful employment in a variety of occupations and/or for further study in pursuit of a graduate degree and a career as a professional sociologist.

Social Services

The specialization in social services is designed to provide the sociological training essential for employment in a variety of social service occupations and is an optimal preparation for graduate study in the field of social welfare toward a career as a professional social worker.

Gerontology

The specialization in gerontology is designed for students and professionals working with or interested in working with the aged. It provides the sociological training essential for employment in a variety of social service and health-care occupations serving the aging population. The gerontology specialization also provides preparation for graduate study in social services and related fields. Students in the gerontology specialization are encouraged to complete an internship in a social service agency or related professional setting that serves the needs of the aging population. The Dominican University gerontology program has been officially approved by the Illinois Department of Professional Regulation for the four courses required for licensure of nursing home administrator.