Anthropology, Sociology & Urban Studies Gain experience with social science methods and perspectives that broaden your understanding of culture and society. Anthropology is the study of humans, past and present. To fully understand cultures across all of human history, anthropology combines concepts from the social and biological sciences along with humanities and physical sciences. The main focus of anthropologists is to research different human perspectives. By having all the pieces of a puzzle, anthropologists can see the bigger picture and come up with solutions to societal issues like hunger, income inequality and more. Sociology majors acquire a wide understanding and appreciation of life in a diverse world. They become aware of how society influences lives and value the power of individuals and groups in changing society. Students develop skills in gathering and analyzing data on social issues and putting this information into a sociological context. Urban Studies majors learn about the development of metropolitan areas and the challenges facing these areas today. Cities are used as living laboratories to explore the lives and issues of its residents. Students learn skills such as urban planning and sustainability and learn to work with government and community organizations to improve the quality of life in urban areas.
Careers Today’s anthropologists and sociologists don’t just work in exotic locations. They can be found in a surprising array of fields and careers like: • Federal, State and Local Government • Nonprofits • Archaeology • Human Resources • Public Health • Business • Journalism • Public Relations • Communications • Museums • Social Work • Criminal Justice • Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) • Tourism ...and more. • Education
Immersion in the Community Over half of our classes have moved beyond the gates of the university to include community learning components. To improve the educational experiences of our students we introduce them to community based research and the work that local organizations do. We have teamed up with local governmental and community based organizations to do evaluations, plan programs and allow students to explore career possibilities. Our students have conducted several research projects, held conferences and continue to work with organization officers to learn new research skills. As a result, many of our students have taken on new career and graduate school opportunities in sociology, urban studies and related fields.
Fieldwork Students are required to work for a semester in local organizations like government agencies, non-profit organizations, religious institutions, schools, and health care facilities. In addition to the job responsibilities, students keep a log of activities and complete the semester with a reflection paper.
For course descriptions and additional information visit
www.saintpeters.edu/academics 11/21
Anthropology, Sociology & Urban Studies Minors Africana Studies Explore the rich and complex influence of the peoples of African origin, both in Africa and in the African diaspora. The Africana studies program examines the interconnected historical, cultural, artistic and political forces of African-American, African and Caribbean peoples. Gender & Sexuality Explore the social construction of gender, the significance of gender in structuring human social life, sexuality and the contributions of women and LGBTQ individuals to history and culture. Latin American and Latino Studies Enrich your academic, professional and personal understanding and expertise on Latin-America, the Caribbean and Latino communities in the United States.
Studying the World More than 20% of Saint Peter’s students choose to take part in credit bearing travel courses in India, China, Cuba, and many other areas of the world. For many students, this is an opportunity to expand their horizons beyond their own experiences. For all students, study abroad trips help shape awareness of the world in which we live. Not an experienced globe trotter? That’s OK! Faculty plan short-term study courses.
Faculty Joseph McLaughlin, Ph.D. Professor, Department Chair
David S. Surrey, Ph.D. Professor
Devin Heyward, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
Alex Trillo, Ph.D. Associate Professor
Victoria Stone-Cadena, Ph.D. Assistant Professor
For course descriptions and additional information visit
www.saintpeters.edu/academics