Hanover Sociology Department
Hanover prepared me to follow my heart by diligently preparing my mind, inside the classroom and out. I learned how to communicate with both my words and actions. Hanover's education made my experience in law school much more manageable and even a little fun. When you are prepared, you are confident and confidence is a key to success. My sociology major helped me to learn to help others by understanding their problems and struggles. I strive to do that daily. My memories of Hanover will be in my heart forever and my wonderful education continues to pay dividends on a daily basis. It turned this naive Kentucky country boy into what, I hope, is a valuable advocate for those in need.
Matt Boyd, Class of 1996
Why Study Sociology?
Deciding upon a major can be an intimidating task, and you may be wondering if Sociology would be a good fit for you. If any of the following is true for you, then the Sociology department at Hanover College may be just what you have been searching for.
You enjoy:
• Interacting with others
• Observing and understanding relationships
• Helping others
• Drawing conclusions
You want to:
• Analyze society and individuals
• Research your interests
• Be involved in community and social service
• Travel abroad
• Have a meaningful and fun academic and social experience
What Hanover Sociology Offers
Sociology examines society through a scientific lens. Everything you think, do, or feel is shaped by interaction with others. At Hanover College, it's that interaction that sets the sociology department apart. A highly dedicated and accessible faculty works with students to help them build both the scientific and interpersonal skills needed for a wide variety of fields in the social sciences.
Hanover College's sociology program is based on active learning – both inside and outside the classroom. There are numerous opportunities for off-campus learning via class trips, study abroad programs, and field research. Introductory courses cover the breadth of culture, people, and problems. Upper-level courses focus on specific social patterns, social research methodology, and an independent study. As a student, you'll be encouraged to think independently while gathering evidence and building a rationale for your senior thesis, a culmination of what you've learned on a topic of your choice.
By providing students with practical experience and a comprehensive education, the sociology department at Hanover prepares students for graduate school and fulfilling professional careers.
Highlights
Highly Trained Faculty with Global Experience
From food and culture to race and ethnic relations, from comparative religion to the sociology of sport, Hanover's faculty has a wide range of specialties and global experience. This includes international work in India, Iran, Yemen, Russia, Tanzania, and Israel. The faculty also is active in regional and national professional societies, presenting research, and serving as officers and consultants. A small student-faculty ratio means experienced staff will give you the attention and support you deserve.
Hands-on Learning Opportunities
Students are encouraged to learn about topics firsthand, engaging in interactive learning through semesters abroad, internships or student research. Learn about Native American sociology at the Hopi Reservation in Arizona; Urban Sociology in London, England; or Political Sociology in Washington, D.C. These hands-on learning experiences will provide you with opportunities to apply your class work in exciting practical settings.
Committed to Excellence and Top Student Rankings
In addition to challenging students and pushing them to reach their full potential, the faculty also is very supportive and highly accessible to students. Their commitment to quality education is reflected in student rankings. For the past five years, Hanover sociology students have scored in the 96th to 99th percentile on the Educational Testing Service Examination in Sociology, putting them at the head of the class nationwide.
Career Opportunities
Sociology within the context of a liberal arts education equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to continue on to a variety of careers and/or graduate school opportunities.
Previous graduates' career and professional placements have included:
• Executive, Fifth Third Bank (Cincinnati)
• Statistician, U.S. Government (Washington D.C.)
• Urban Planner, City of Indianapolis
• Human Rights Activist (Central America)
• Fashion Designer (Denver, Colorado)
• Sociology Professor, University of Maryland
• Attorney (Lexington, Kentucky)
• Social Worker (Los Angeles, California)
• School Counselor (Bloomington, Indiana)
Graduate and medical school placements have included:
• IUPUI School of Law
• Vanderbilt University
• Louisville Presbyterian Seminary
• Purdue University
• Ohio State University
• UCLA
• Indiana University
• University of Sydney
• Clemson University
