What is Sociology?
According to the American Sociological Association, “Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies and how people interact within these contexts. Since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to global communities; from deviance to organized crime; from religious traditions to state institutions; and from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture.”
The Sociology Program at UC Merced
Sociology is the 4th largest major in the School of Social Sciences and Humanities and consistently ranks among the top 10 majors at UC Merced.
A Sociology degree from UC Merced equips students with the tools to analyze human behavior, social structures, and key societal issues such as poverty, gender, race, and politics. Through sociological theories and analytical reasoning, students gain a deeper understanding of the world and its complexities.
Sociology majors develop critical thinking, research, and data analysis skills, preparing them for diverse and rewarding careers in business, human resources, marketing, criminal justice, education, technology, law, public health, non-profits, public policy, and social work. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in sociology, law, and related fields. Students can major or minor in sociology.
For sociology majors or those wishing to go more in-depth into their studies, the Sociology Department offers four optional emphasis areas in Community Studies; Health, Medicine, and Society; Justice, Law and Society; and Race and Racial Justice. Each area of emphasis requires 16 units, which can be counted toward the 48 units needed for the major.
● Sociology, B.A.
● Sociology, Community Studies, B.A.
● Sociology, Health, Medicine, and Society, B.A.
● Sociology, Justice, Law, and Society, B.A.
● Sociology, Race and Racial Justice, B.A.
● Sociology Minor
Sociology Student & Alumni Experiences
UC Merced Sociology offers a uniquely supportive and engaging academic experience, preparing students for meaningful careers. Data from the UC Undergraduate Experience Survey (UCUES) highlights key strengths of UC Merced’s Sociology program compared to other UC campuses.
- Career Preparation: 93% of UCM Sociology majors chose the field for its career preparation, compared to 84% at other UCs.
- Faculty Connections: UCM Sociology majors report stronger faculty relationships, with greater access to small classes and mentorship—more students know at least two faculty members well enough to request a letter of recommendation.
- Inclusive Learning Environment: UCM Sociology faculty are rated higher in maintaining respectful interactions (83% vs. 80%), treating students fairly (72% vs. 64%), and fostering active participation (82% vs. 73%).
In our latest survey of sociology alumni, 69% reported being employed full-time. Most work in sociology-related fields, including education (21%), nonprofits (18%), government (11%), healthcare (19%), social and legal services (9%), technology (13%), and social science research (3%). Additionally, 41% are in for-profit businesses. Employers range from California school districts and law offices to United Way and UC campuses. A majority (63%) say their job is moderately or highly related to sociology, and 74% express satisfaction with their employment.
Another 10% are pursuing graduate degrees in sociology, education, social work, or criminology at institutions such as Stanford, UC Irvine, UC Merced, Cal State Fresno, and Cal State Stanislaus.
Updated 2025
