Transform lives, strengthen families and uplift communities
Your future starts here
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics defines an education in the liberal arts and sciences as “an approach to learning that involves diverse coursework so students develop a range of knowledge.” In other words, a degree in the liberal arts and sciences does not limit you to a specific career – you are free to pursue endless opportunities, having developed critical thinking, communication, career-readiness and other skills.
Degree programs at the T. Denny Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics prepare you for success in today’s job market.
As a family and human development or sociology major, you’ll explore lifespan development, relationships and family dynamics while gaining insights into human interaction. Learn outside the classroom with internship opportunities through community organizations, schools, advocacy groups and social service centers.
Gain hands-on training in early childhood development and education in our Child Development Lab where you can work as a teacher’s aide in our on-campus preschool.
Over 90% of employers said they prefer to hire a candidate who shows ethical judgment and integrity, intercultural skills and the capacity for continued new learning.
93% of employers agree that “a candidate’s capacity to think critically, communicate clearly and solve complex problems is more important than their undergraduate major.”
Hanan K. graduated from the sociology program, where she learned about human behavior and research methods. She participated in a research initiative about kindness and empathy among youth and interned with a local nonprofit organization to support low-income students. She has worked as a special education specialist and enjoys helping children succeed.
Hannah B. graduated from the family and human development program with a sociology minor. As a student, she assisted with research alongside faculty mentors who provided career guidance and unlocked her passion for statistics. Since graduating, she has worked at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and is now a data scientist.
When I started the major, I didn’t know much about sociology, but what made me fall in love with the field was how I got to apply sociological theories to reallife situations and understand religion, crime, deviance, the law and injustice through a new lens.”
DaMonee E. Diversity, equity and inclusion strategist BS in sociology, BS in global health, 2022
All of the professors were really supportive. They were always there if you had any questions or if you weren’t sure what you wanted to do. They would provide you with career counseling, which is really needed.”
Jake M.
Deputy director of campaigns and strategy, New York Civil Liberties Union BA in sociology, MS in family and human development, 2010