Sociology, the scientific study of human social behavior and organization, asks important questions about what it means to be members of a society. It provides us with tools for exploring how we create identities and find meaning in our relationships, how the people and groups we interact with influence our attitudes and behavior, and how social institutions and cultures shape our beliefs, thoughts, and perceptions. In sociology, we systematically evaluate topics such as race, social class, gender, sexuality, religion, health, environment, government, social change, and we carefully consider the limits of social influence and free will.
Sociology is a rigorous science with a broad scope and a long history. Many sociologists work in careers related to research, education, marketing, human services, and local or state governments. Graduates of NAU’s sociology programs currently serve a diverse range of employers, including colleges and universities nationwide, FEMA (disaster relief), non-profit organizations, and research firms. An undergraduate or graduate degree from the Department of Sociology has been the starting point for many of our former students' professional education in medicine, law, or the social sciences.
This Giving Day, we invite you to elevate what’s possible for our students by supporting key funds that make a lasting difference:
Sociology Student Travel & Research
Each year, our Applied Sociology MA students conduct thesis research, and many have the opportunity to present their findings at regional conferences like the Pacific Sociological Association. Your contribution helps our students cover expenses such as food, lodging, and registration fees, as well as costs associated with their research projects.
Sociology Department Scholarship
Over the years, we’ve awarded thousands of dollars' worth of scholarships that help students pay for educational expenses which might otherwise prevent their attendance if they had to be paid out-of-pocket or with student loans. Your contribution helps our students earn their degrees and pursue their goals at the lowest possible cost to themselves and their families.
David McKell Internship Award
This award provide funds to financially support students in the sociology or social work undergraduate major who choose an internship field experience in community correction including probation, parole, or any agency that serves delinquent youth or young adult offenders in a community setting. Help support career-readiness for our students and positive impact for our community today!
Your generosity fuels innovation, access, and excellence at NAU. Every gift—no matter the size—helps create life-changing experiences for our students. Thank you for believing in the power of Lumberjack giving.
