Sociology at BHSU

The Sociology major at Black Hills State University focuses on the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Students in the program gain social awareness and critical thinking skills that will benefit them in their professional and personal lives.

The benefits of gaining this degree from BHSU include:

• Personal access to professors who have a wealth of experiences in the field

• Interesting courses that study sociological theories and apply them to the outside world

• Opportunities for travel to regional and national conferences to present your own research

• Numerous campus organizations

• Meaningful internships in the community

Prospective Sociology Majors

As a Sociology major, you will earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sociology. 

Within the Sociology degree, there are three emphasis areas. You are required to specialize in Culture & Society, Law & Justice, or Social Resiliency. This is also a major that requires a minor.

The most common minors for Sociology are Psychology and American Indian Studies, but minors vary depending on the interests of the student. You may also declare a double major in the same degree (B.S.) if you choose. It is a requirement to take at least 42 credits in the field of Sociology.

Future Careers

There are a wide range of job outcomes and future opportunities for Sociology graduates. Some graduates are attending law school or graduate school. Others are working as community organizers, advocating for the rights of children and the developmentally challenged, serving in for profit and non-profit organizations, and a variety of other careers.

A degree can lead to employment opportunities in the following areas:

• Criminal Justice- In corrections, rehabilitation, law enforcement, the justice system, parole system.

• Business and Industry- Advertising, Consumer and Market Research, Management of Non-profit organizations, Human Resources, Training and Human Development, Leadership Training.

• Research and Planning- Governmental and regional planning departments, research firms, evaluation research, public opinion research.

• Agencies-Social Services, Mental Health Services, Adoption, Child Care, Youth Services, Developmental Disability Services.

• Government- Social Science Analysis, Census Bureau and other federal agencies, Administration, Policy Analysis, Personnel, Homeland Security.

• Education- Public and Private Schools, Colleges and Universities, Administration, Alumni Relations, Placement Offices, Educational Research.

• Advocacy- Environmental, Child Welfare, National Policies, Victims Rights, Labor Rights, Community Organization.

• Communications- Technical Writing, Newspaper and Magazine Reporting, Public Relations.