Sociology and Anthropology, B.A.

Tori Barnes-Brus, Erin Davis (chair), Mary Olson

This interdisciplinary major combines sociology’s focus on investigating the ways in which society is organized with anthropology’s holistic study of humankind. Together, these disciplines allow us to explore the connections between individual experiences and the larger social context along with the rich diversity in human life.

Sociology and anthropology (SAN) at Cornell is grounded in an interdisciplinary approach that allows students to grow intellectually as they immerse themselves in a broad array of topics.

Students at Cornell learn sociology and anthropology through hands-on practice. OCAAT courses provide the flexibility to do community-based research, study abroad, take field-trips and learn from experts in a variety of fields, while seminar-style discussion courses give students and faculty the opportunity to dig into complex subjects like climate change, poverty, refugee resettlement, healthcare, changing gender norms or the persistence of structural racism.

SAN majors develop advanced and transferable skills such as critical thinking, careful reading, data analysis and excellent communication skills applicable to almost any career. A SAN major provides invaluable preparation for non-profit and community work, government service, research, international development, social and human services, and work in business and high-tech sectors.

SAN courses contribute to the following interdisciplinary programs: Archaeology; Environmental Justice and Sustainability; Civic Engagement; International Relations; Gender, Sexuality and Women’s Studies; Race, Ethnicity and Social Justice

Requirements

An interdisciplinary major with a minimum of 11 course credits in Sociology and Anthropology, which include

SOC 101 - Sociological Thinking (1) OR SOC 102 - Topics in Sociological Thinking (1)
ANT 101 - Cultural Anthropology (1) OR ANT 102 - Topics in Anthropology (1)
SOC 384 - Research Design and Data Analysis (1) OR ANT 384 Qualitative Research Methods and Fieldwork
SOC 383 - Sociological Theory (1) OR ANT 383 Anthropological Theory
SOC 487 - SOC/SAN/ANT Senior Seminar (1)
Three additional couses in Sociology and three additional courses in Anthropology. Of these six courses, three must be at or above the 300 level and two must be complementary pairings determined in conjunction with the student’s advisor.

Note:

No more than two course credits in individualized research (one in Sociology and one in Anthropology), and no more than three 100-level courses may be counted toward the total of 10 course credits.

Teaching Certification:

Students who are interested in pursuing K-12 certification to teach social studies should seek admission to the Teacher Education Program. See the Education department section for application and certification information.

Note:

Students may not combine this joint major in Sociology and Anthropology with a Sociology major or with an Anthropology major.