Major/Minor Sociology and Anthropology

Anthropology is the interdisciplinary study of societies across time and space with the goal of better understanding human development and diversity. The American Anthropological Association outlines four main branches of anthropology:

• Biological Anthropology—how biological evolution has affected humankind over the millennia
• Archaeology—examining how societies of the past lived, often hundreds or thousands of years ago
• Linguistics—the study of language and its structure as part of the human experience

Cultural Anthropology— how peoples’ beliefs, practices, and the cognitive and social organization of human groups affect culture

The American Sociological Association defines sociology as “the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and of human behavior.” Sociology focuses on contemporary social behavior, relationships, and institutions to uncover collective patterns of interaction and inequality. This can be at a more granular level, such as within families, or as broad as the global community, and often focuses on urban and industrial contexts.

Anthropology and sociology both seek to understand the nuances of human development and interaction. While similar, these sciences differ in their approaches and methodologies to examine societies through different lenses. Anthropology tends to look at societies and cultures over time, whereas sociology is generally focused on the issues of today (deviance, health and illness, and race and ethnic relations, as some examples). The two fields also differ in their methodologies. Anthropology tends to use more qualitative methods, like archaeological excavation or participant interviews/observation, whereas sociology depends more on surveys and statistical analysis to provide a quantitative analysis of social patterns and institutional structures.

As explained above, sociology studies relationships and traditions across groups of people. Psychology focuses on the mind and behavior of individuals, and in turn how individuals’ mental state affects broader societal patterns and issues. The American Psychological Association describes the varying purposes of psychology as they relate to individuals within society: to understand and treat mental, emotional, physical, and social dysfunction; to understand and enhance behavior in various settings of human activity (e.g., school, workplace, courtroom, sports arena, battlefield); and to improve machine and building design for human use.

RMC offers both the majors in psychology and sociology, allowing interested students to study within both fields.

Sociologists’ deep understanding of human behavior makes sociology majors desirable job candidates across many sectors. Many sociologists choose to pursue careers in market research, nonprofit advocacy, social services, policy advising, criminal justice, counselling, and more.

In 2023, nearly one-third of American sociologists were focused on scientific research and development services. Sociologists are also often employed in governmental positions at the local, regional, and national levels. In addition, the American Sociological Association’s 2023 Job Bank Report, published in August 2024, lists academic roles, including teaching and research positions, as the most commonly advertised jobs on its site.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of anthropologists will grow 8% from 2023 to 2033, double the national average for all occupations. Anthropologically focused positions are available within governmental (local/state planning and research, cultural resource management, international development, etc.) and community or nonprofit environments (i.e. global health organizations, research organizations, museums, and other community groups).

A combined sociology/anthropology major offers a comprehensive study of both fields, integrating insights into both contemporary and historical social structures. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with diverse analytical tools and perspectives, enhancing their ability to address complex societal challenges and broadening career opportunities​.

RMC’s major/minor programs combine sociology and anthropology to provide a broad understanding of both disciplines. Students additionally have the opportunity to focus their studies in one of three sub-areas: anthropology, social dynamics, and crime and justice. In addition to enriching coursework, the department offers many research and other hands-on learning opportunities outside the classroom that help students explore career options and gain practical experience.