Since the focus of sociology and anthropology is the group, it’s essential that its students function well within groups.

That’s why it’s the mission of the Sociology-Anthropology Department to provide a sociological frame of reference for students to develop self-awareness and become skilled in observing, analyzing and engaging in interpersonal, intercultural and institutional relations.

Objectives

The department seeks to give students a strong foundation in the principles and practices behind ethical work and study in sociology and anthropology.

The department objectives include:

• Establishing basic concepts and theories in sociology and anthropology;
• Building strong oral and written communication skills;
• Developing sound quantitative and qualitative methods and research practices;
• Developing a student’s sociological imagination, critical thinking ability and empathy for others; and
• Empowering students to take action in their communities.

Career Opportunities

Sociology and anthropology graduates leave Nebraska Wesleyan University equipped with knowledge, background and skills that make them versatile in a wide variety of fields.

Common employment areas include:

• Business (human resources, research, marketing and communication);
• Government (census and population studies, urban development, diplomatic services, policing and criminal justice);
• Human services (health care, education and immigrant support); and
• Nonprofits (community outreach, housing development and international organizations).

Special Aptitudes

Above nearly all else, prospective sociologists and anthropologists must be particularly open people—open to uncommon approaches to common human endeavors like preparing a meal, raising a child or governing a nation.

They must develop the difficult but critical ability to set aside personal assumptions and opinions in order to more clearly see and understand others and distinguish between individual choices and structural forces.

Additional Programs

Within the department are four interdisciplinary programs (Criminal Justice, Environmental Studies, American Minority Studies, and Family Studies) and one off-campus program (Chicago Center).