Sociology and Anthropology

With a deep commitment to the broader values of justice and human rights, the sociology and anthropology degree focuses on understanding social and cultural complexity and diversity. The program examines critical issues such as the economy, politics, gender and sexuality, race and ethnicity, urban living, the family, and health as they are shaped by social forces and cultural values. You'll gain insight from a wide range of theoretical perspectives and you'll develop the necessary research skills to further examine topics of critical importance in society. Students in the sociology and anthropology program build a strong foundation to pursue a wide range of career options both in the United States and abroad.

A sociology major paired with an anthropology major, this degree is the best of both, dedicated to understanding and appreciating social and cultural complexity and diversity across the globe and through time. Students are exposed to critical perspectives, theories, and research skills that are necessary to engage in complex global and local issues that crosscut the economy, politics, society, gender, ethnicity, and culture. Understanding societies both past and present better prepares us to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world and to assume positions of leadership that promote vision and equity.

Plan of Study

This integrated, multidisciplinary sociology and anthropology degree explores the common scholarly roots and creative differences of sociology and anthropology, through which students gain a synergistic set of perspectives and skills that prepare them for social analysis in the widest array of social and cultural settings. Students choose one of the following specializations: archaeology, cultural anthropology, sociology, or thematic.

Graduates pursue careers in medicine and public health, law, business, international development, the not-for-profit sector, urban planning, architecture, social work, education, and government, among other possibilities.

RIT's Pre-Law Program

Law schools welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs. RIT's pre-law program will help you navigate the admission process for law school, explore a range of legal careers, and guide you through course selection to ensure you build the skills and competencies required of competitive law school applicants. The program is open to students in all majors who are interested in pursuing a career in law.

RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option

RIT has partnered with Syracuse University's College of Law to offer an accelerated 3+3 BS/JD option for highly capable students. This option provides a fast-track pathway to law school in which students earn a bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctorate degree in six years. In the 3+3 option, students may apply to the option directly. Successful applicants are offered admission to RIT and given conditional acceptance into Syracuse University's College of Law.

RIT's sociology and anthropology degree is one of the approved majors for the 3+3 option. Learn more about the RIT/Syracuse University College of Law 3+3 Option, including admission requirements and frequently asked questions.

Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees

Today's careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT's Combined Accelerated Bachelor's/Master's Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

+1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor's degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate your learning and position you for success.

Typical Job Titles