2024-2025 Undergraduate Catalog
Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology
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Department Chairperson: Dr. Raleigh Blasdell
Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology Faculty
Mission Statement
The Department of Sociology, Criminology and Anthropology assists students in developing an informed social and cultural perspective in an attempt to understand their own lives, career possibilities and the on-going problems of social justice and social change in the contemporary world.
Sociology challenges us in a profound manner. The subject matter of sociology—the family, poverty, work, crime, urban life, race and ethnic relations, gender and social class—is typically understood in individual terms. However, from a sociological perspective, we come to see how these individual experiences are dramatically shaped and contoured by an often times mysterious mix of social forces. In this manner, the sociological perspective broadens, adds depth and provides new meaning to the life choices and life chances we have going forward.
From its perspective, anthropology offers insights into the study of humankind, in all its conditions. Such a broad and ambitious goal requires a unique configuration of perspectives. Thus, anthropology is holistic and comparative; is evolutionary or historical; seeks to complement scientific, humanistic and cultural insider’s views; and is based on experiential learning. Most anthropologists are trained in four commonly conceptualized sub disciplines: cultural anthropology, biological anthropology, archaeology and linguistic anthropology. While study in all four of these sub-disciplines is available at North Central College, the strength of the department is centered in cultural anthropology.
Criminology offers an interdisciplinary and evidence-based exploration of the causes, consequences and control of criminal behavior. This analytical investigation of crime, criminal justice institutions and the way they reflect and reinforce systems of power and inequality, seeks to inform improvements across the justice system—including responses to and treatment of justice-involved persons and those who have been harmed. The program at North Central College fosters a commitment to social justice and the common good as students learn to critically consume information, theorize social contexts, generate new knowledge and communicate with others.
With respect to career opportunities, sociology, criminology and anthropology offer valuable preparation for positions in a variety of fields. For example, graduates in our program have gone on to careers as urban planners, social workers, community relations specialists, park rangers, juvenile counselors, police officers, lawyers, social service directors, AmeriCorps workers, professors, sales executives, admissions counselors, data analysts, case managers, Federal enforcement officers, pastors, researchers, project managers and community organizers. Anthropology majors have opportunities in a wide variety of professional positions, especially those in international, intercultural and interactive contexts. For those students who are considering an advanced degree, sociology, criminology and anthropology prepare students to enter professional programs in law, criminal justice administration, public policy, theology, social work, religious studies, library science, and public health, as well as advanced programs in sociology, criminology and anthropology.
Degree offered: B.A.
Students may choose a major in Sociology, Criminology or Anthropology.
ProgramsMajorMinorCoursesAnthropologyCriminologySociology
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