Our Abstract Reality

Majors: Sociology
Minors: Sociology | Human Services

Are you intrigued by human relationships? Do you wonder why and how human beings choose to behave as friends, as a family, as a community? Then we invite you to investigate the evolving nature and changing character of human relationships in an increasingly global and complex world as a sociology major at Lycoming, where you will be challenged to think deeply about such contemporary issues as inequality according to race, class, gender and sexuality; changes in family structures; health care quality and training; and much more. Students will acquire a strong foundation of skills that can be used in a wide variety of academic and professional fields, including analytical and critical thinking and speech; logical reasoning and interpretation; and the clear and articulate presentation of your ideas, both in writing and verbally.

Student Opportunities

  • Conduct your own independent research project, from research framing, through data collection, to analysis, presentation, and write-up.
  • Present research at undergraduate regional conferences such as the Eastern Sociological Society.
  • Participate in an honors experience with the American Sociological Association.
  • Conduct research with a faculty member.
  • Gain teaching experience as a tutor for a wide variety of courses, including Introduction to Sociology, Social Stratification, Theory, and Methods
  • Complete an individual service learning project with institutions such as UPMC Susquehanna Health Emergency Department, AristiCare, the Center for Independent Living, and The RiverWalk Center.
  • Pursue competitive local and national internships with organizations such as UPMC Susquehanna, the American Cancer Society, SPCA, Step, Inc. Head Start, the City of Williamsport Office of Codes, or the PA Game Commission.
  • Be inducted into Alpha Kappa Delta International Honor Society of Sociology.
  • Win the Durkheim Prize for academic excellence as a sociology major.

Why Lycoming?

  1. Service learning is integrated into the curriculum – courses, including Medical Sociology, Sociology of Aging, Gerontology, and Introduction to Human Services incorporate 40-60 hours of service learning, connecting students with potential networks in fields of interest within the local community.
  2. Classes are taught by faculty with the highest degree in their fields.
  3. In the capstone course, students apply the knowledge they have acquired throughout their time at Lycoming to an individual, well-developed research project.
  4. Low student to faculty ratios within courses ensure students get the attention and help they need.

Why Lycoming is the Right Choice →