Drawing on the expertise and commitment of our research-active faculty, we provide excellent educational experiences to undergraduate majors, minors and MSU as a whole. The unifying theme of the department is the study of societies – past and present – embedded in the tradition of the liberal arts.

We offer two degree programs: A B.S. in Sociology and a B.S. in Anthropology. Anthropology often draws students who are interested in cross-cultural study or in historical studies of human societies (e.g., archaeology, human evolution). Anthropology students have many opportunities to participate in research via class projects and collaboration with faculty. 

Sociology often draws students who are interested in human interaction, social inequality, social institutions and social change. Sociology students also have multiple opportunities to participate in independent research. Students who are interested in studying justice systems (e.g., law enforcement, courts, corrections) can take sociology courses that focus on current knowledge in this area as a part of the sociology major.

Program Goals and Assessment