Sociologists observe, describe, explain and predict human social behavior. The Sociology (BS) – Power and Social Change degree at Appalachian State University examines how power serves to structure human relationships and how the contestation of power leads to a variety of social changes. Students in this concentration will learn not only about institutionalized power relationships, such as those pertaining to elections, political parties and policy-making, but also about less conventional power struggles, such as those involving social movements and war. To help students better understand the U.S. experience, many of these issues are placed in comparative and global contexts.
By developing effective written and oral communication skills, as well as through the practical experience of an internship, students will lay the groundwork for successful employment in government, community-based organizations and social advocacy groups. The concentration also provides the skills and knowledge for graduate study in sociology and related fields.