Sociology programs

The School of Politics, Society, Justice and Public Service offers a Social and Criminal Justice major and minor, a Youth Studies major and minor and a Sociology major. With one of these degrees, you will learn how people in our world work together. 

Our sociology graduates work in research, teaching, health care and public policy. By studying how people behave and the patterns they follow, you can create strategies to deal with issues like inequality, bias and poverty. The goal is to work towards a fair and just world for everyone. With a degree in youth studies, our alumni are working in community development, social work and family studies. Our graduates who earn a degree in social and criminal justice are getting jobs as police officers, private investigators, crime prevention, correctional officer, victim advocacy and federal agencies. 

Social and Criminal Justice minor

If you're driven to make a difference in your community through justice and reform, a minor in social and criminal studies is the perfect fit. You’ll immerse yourself in the study of corrections and criminology and prepare for a rewarding career at the intersection of social justice and criminal reform. Our minor gives you the knowledge and skills to advocate for meaningful change in the justice system.

Youth Studies minor

A minor in youth studies builds your understanding of the issues young people face and prepares you to work with children and adolescents in a variety of settings. CMU is the nation’s first and only school to offer a youth studies concentration in the sociology major as well as a youth studies minor.

Sociology major

Our sociology major examines the impact of inequality and explores social justice and diversity. Learn to solve real-world problems using data-driven research and effect lasting social change.

Social and Criminal Justice major

Immerse yourself in the study of our social and criminal justice major through the lens of inequality and social justice. This program leads to fulfilling careers in corrections, advocacy, social services, policing and beyond.

Youth Studies major

Make a real impact on young lives with our youth studies major. This program equips you with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in community and school settings focused on youth development. You'll gain practical skills through hands-on experiences and coursework that addresses the unique challenges young people face today. Prepare for a fulfilling career where you can drive change and advocate for the next generation.

Faculty advisors

Sociology
Aaron Foote | Email Aaron Foote | 989-774-1038
Alan Rudy | Email Alan Rudy | 989-774-7611
Cedric Taylor | Email Cedric Taylor | 989-774-1478
Elbert Almazan | Email Elbert Almazan | 989-774-7337
Mary Senter | Email Mary Senter | 989-774-2336

Youth Studies
Amanda Garrison | Email Amanda Garrison | 989-774-1942
David Kinney | Email David Kinney | 989-774-1488

Social & Criminal Justice
Mensah Adinkrah | Email Mensah Adinkrah| 989-774-3367
Elizabeth Bradshaw | Email Elizabeth Bradshaw | 989-774-3469
Rebecca Hayes | Email Rebecca Hayes | 989-774-3442
Brian Smith | Email Brian Smith | 989-774-3428

Quick links