As a student in Duquesne’s sociology program, you will have a number of ways to get involved with both the university and the wider community—through student clubs and organizations, research projects and fieldwork.

Sociology is an academic discipline with a long history of engaging with the wider world. You will have a multitude of experiences along the way that will enrich both you and those around you. 

These opportunities allow you to connect with students who have similar interests and the opportunity to put what you’ve learned in the classroom into practice. The department also grants a number of scholarships and awards to students in our programs.

Clubs & Organizations

This national organization offers numerous articles, employment links, grant information and newsletters for sociology professionals and students.

The American Sociological Association (ASA) reports that a B.A. in sociology:

  • can lead to careers in business, social service and government.
  • is valuable preparation for journalism, politics, public relations or public administration.
  • to prepare for professions such as law, education, medicine, social work and counseling.
Sociology majors are encouraged to join the Sociology Club.The club meets regularly through the year to enhance the culture of our major on campus and schedules special events.

Sociology majors who meet the following requirements may be invited to join the Delta Chapter (Pennsylvania) of Alpha Kappa Delta, International Honorary Sociology Society.

Each year the files of sociology majors are reviewed and invitations sent to eligible students. The student must:

  • Be a junior or senior
  • Have a minimum cumulative QPA of 3.30
  • Have a 3.00 QPA in sociology
  • Have completed a minimum of 12 credits in sociology
  • Rank in the top 35% of your class in general scholarship.

Applying Classroom Knowledge to the Real World

Photo of Adam Dehm on Academic Walk

During my time at CYF, I shadowed caseworkers as they removed children from unsafe homes and helped keep everyone safe in those extremely difficult situations. Regardless of what I was doing, I felt fulfilled and confident with the knowledge I gained in the classroom that was utilized to create positive outcomes for some of the most vulnerable families in our community. I learned a lot about casework and human service agencies just by being in the room with my coworkers as they coordinated services for their clients.

Adam Dehm Sociology student

Scholarships and Awards

The sociology department rewards exemplary students on an annual basis. These awards and scholarships include:
  • Chester A. Jurczak Excellence in Sociology Award
  • Goett Endowed Scholarship
  • Irma A. Jones Endowed Student Resource Fund
  • Ridge Endowed Student Resource Fund