Goal

The Department of Sociology recognizes that most of the social problems and issues we confront today cannot be fully understood without taking into consideration the impact of global and transnational forces. Whether we examine political advocacy, economic inequality or population movements the effects of global interdependence are evident in the way we study sociological issues. The Sociology Program offers a unique perspective and insights to understand the unfolding of globalization. The goal of this track is to prepare our students for advanced studies and careers in fields related to international and comparative issue.

Orientation

The Global and Comparative Track provides the necessary conceptual and research skills to analyze and evaluate interdisciplinary international events and problems. Our courses are taught by faculty with academic and professional experience in various fields ranging from poverty and economic inequality to social movement and democratic participation. We complement the expertise of our faculty by encouraging our students to take advantage of existing resources in Washington DC and to intern in many of the international organizations and research centers in the city. In addition, the university's Office of Global Strategies offers multiple opportunities to study abroad.

Program Organization and Curriculum

Students are encouraged to meet with the departmental advisor to discuss their academic and professional interest and tailor a program of study that they should pursue as upperclassmen. Electives that satisfy the concentration requirement must be confirmed with the advisor. Some electives include, but are not limited to:

  • SOC 102 Global Social Problems and Social Justice
  • SOC 204 Transnational Crime
  • SOC 304 Religion, Politics, and Globalization in China
  • SOC 319 Modern Islamic Terrorism
  • SOC 320 Terrorism and Counter Terrorism
  • SOC 330 Work in the 21st Century: Career and Identity in the New Economy
  • SOC 331 Globalization and Social Movement
  • SOC 333 Economy and Society in Contemporary China
  • SOC 343 Religion and Mental Health in Global Perspective

 

The following is a partial list of agencies and institutions offering internships opportunities we recommend to our students:

  • The World Bank
  • The Brookings Institute
  • The U.S. Peace Institute
  • U.S. State Department
  • The Dept. of Homeland Security
  • U.S. Peace Corps
  • U.S. Agency for International Development