Students may even take advantage of opportunities for research or clinical apprenticeships at cooperating institutions during summer months. Sociology Sociology is an intriguing area of study that can lead to a variety of wonderful, exciting careers. The study of sociology at the college helps the understanding of our social world, family patterns, relationships, urban and rural life, social change, race relations, crime, population, health, aging, and more. The sociology program at Paine not only prepares graduates to become sociologists, but provides an excellent background for those pursuing study and careers in public administration, education rehabilitation, social work, market research, ministry, law, business, medicine, community planning, and politics. Paine sociology majors develop expertise greatly valued by employers, including analytical and interpersonal skills and thorough knowledge in research and communications.
Specific courses offer specialized knowledge.
Field research is an integral part of the curriculum. In consultation with an instructor, sociology students orally present research papers to sociology faculty and students. Internships allow students to gain practical training experience in community clinics and research settings and to make personal contacts for future employment. Some students work with community-based organizations and agencies to investigate topics related to housing, crime, or special concerns of the elderly, youth, ethnic minorities, and women. A minor in sociology consists of 18 semester hours of social psychology, theory, and 12 hours of advanced sociology.