Welcome!
Sociology is the scientific inquiry into the fundamental nature of social life. It studies the processes and patterns of individual and group interaction, the forms of organization of social groups, and the relationships among them. The study of sociology focuses on group influences affecting individual behavior and social institutions as functioning wholes, including the ways in which they relate to the rest of society.
The Department of Sociology at Providence College offers a unique educational experience within the College's tradition of a liberal arts education. Sociology emerged from the Enlightenment thinkers you will study in Development of Western Civilization. Since all PC students will already be familiar with the intellectual origins of sociology, you'll be prepared to enter, and begin contributing to, classes on topics not likely to have been covered in DWC. The typical student drawn to the sociology major at PC is one who has a passion for exploring ideas, values classroom dialogue, and is open to new ideas and ways of thinking that question the status quo in the search for truth.
Sociology is an enlightening, empowering, exciting, and dynamic discipline. Studies in sociology at Providence College provide a solid foundation for better understanding societies, groups within society, and ourselves. Studying sociology also provides opportunities to develop some important and valued skills – including critical thinking, research analysis, inter-personal, communication, problem-solving, and action-oriented skills.