Welcome to Sociology at Illinois State University, where students explore a diverse range of topics and learn to think critically about the social world. Our distinguished faculty members are committed to helping students develop the analytical skills they need to gain a deeper understanding of the world in which we live.

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the scientific study of human social life. It is also a way of thinking that will change the way you see the world around you.

It's about social structure

From family structure, to political systems, to income distribution, societies are organized in ways that profoundly affect people's lives.
Sociologists ask: What are the causes and the consequences of this organization?

It's about social change

Farmlands turn to suburbs. Social movements challenge existing social policies. Societies are constantly evolving.
Sociologists ask: How are social patterns maintained and how do they change?

It's about social meanings

Culture teaches people how to interpret others' actions and the events occurring around them.
Sociologists ask: How are social meanings learned, and how do they affect people's behavior?

Sociologists look under the surface of social life. They analyze data and develop theories in order to understand and explain social patterns, issues, and problems. Sociology not only helps us understand the roots of these issues and problems, but can also help inform policies that contribute to their solutions.

Find Out About Our Courses

Some Famous Sociology Majors

First Lady Michelle Obama
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
President Ronald Reagan
Rev. Jesse Jackson
Robin Williams
Dan Aykroyd
Alonzo Mourning
Troy Aikman
Dr. Ruth Westheimer

“An individual has not started living until he can rise above the narrow confines of his individualistic concerns to the broader concerns of all humanity.” --Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.