Pikeville College - Academic Affairs - Social Science - Sociology

Sociology is not a practice, but a disciplined and systematic method of understanding. One of the newer academic disciplines in modern universities and colleges, it has its origins in the work of the philosophers and scientists of the “Great Enlightenment.” The major questions of sociology have been pondered by the world’s greatest thinkers since the earliest periods of recorded history. Sociology, as a science, emerged first as a “science of humanity,” longing to predict, understand, and correct the ills of society as the modern world rushed to industrial and technological strength. The work of the modern sociologist is shaped by those early thinkers whose writings attempted to correct the misery, poverty, prejudice and human suffering that accompanied society’s rise to greatness.

What can I do with a sociology degree from Pikeville College?

Traditionally, students with degrees in sociology have combined their study with work in journalism, social welfare, education, religion, business, and other disciplines, to pursue occupations in management and administration, public relations, communication, criminal justice and the law, teaching, and other “people-related” and “helping” professions. Many exciting career possibilities are emerging in applied sociology in such areas as social research, impact assessment in the formulation and evaluation of pubic policy and programming, conflict intervention in such diverse settings as racial struggles, community justice and law enforcement programs, and many others. Mass communication provides a broad spectrum of career opportunities dealing with connections between the media and society. Other careers address governmental performance, the problems of the world of work and organizational development, and numerous innovations in the provision of social services. The demand for sociologists is expected to grow as societies are increasingly committed to humane and rational planning and governance. Modern society is complex, changing rapidly, and producing so much disagreement and protest that the continuing need for sociology to help to understand is assured. Graduates with a sociology degree from Pikeville College can choose to pursue a variety of careers including:

• Anthropologist
• College Professor
• Corrections Professional
• Criminologist
• Human Rights Officer
• Human Services Professional
• Law Enforcement Officer
• Organizational/Agency Manager
• Parole Officer
• Public Relations Specialist
• Rehabilitation Counselor
• Statistician
• Substance Abuse Counselor
• Teacher
• Warden

Sociology at Pikeville College

At Pikeville College, our program is not merely an adjunct to the helping professions, although many of our graduates in sociology ultimately find employment in those fields. We strongly embrace the benefits of empirical research into social structures and their impact on our lives. At the same time, however, our academic and cultural history compels us, in every aspect of our lives, to become “watchful carers” for the lives of others. Thus, we have defined three principal goals in our work together:

1. to study sociology as a critical science, researching the social structures and organizations of which we are a part;
2. to view sociology as preparation for a meaningful career; and,
3. to experience our discipline in sociology as a form of “watchful caring,” seeking opportunities to work for social justice and peaceful resolution of conflicts in families and communities—local, national, and international.

Degree Options

• B.S. or B.A.
• Major
• Minor

Key Points

Sociology involves the application of scientific principles and procedures toward understanding and resolving complex issues. People who have a Bachelor’s degree in sociology are frequently employed in the helping professions, in business, and in various public sector positions