ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology offers majors in Sociology and Criminology-Criminal Justice and minors in Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology. Our faculty teach a wide range of interesting courses that cover foundational topics in their respective disciplines and connect those fundamentals to contemporary issues, while providing students with ample opportunities to dynamically engage with the material in a variety of ways. Outside of the classroom, several of our faculty maintain ongoing research projects that welcome student participation. Alternatively, students can design and conduct their own research with the help of a faculty advisor as part of an Independent Study course or our Departmental Honors program. Our Internship program serves students interested in earning credit for work experience in a field related to their academic pursuits. Finally, our four Student Organizations (the Sociology-Anthropology Club, the Criminal Justice Club, Alpha Kappa Delta, and Lambda Alpha) offer opportunities for networking, career-exploration, service-learning, and socialization. Apply to EIU now to join us in Blair Hall soon!
What is Sociology?
Sociology emerged in the nineteenth century as the study of societies, their structures, and the relationships between individuals and the groups they belong to. Sociology is one of humankind's major sources of self-awareness in the twenty-first century. The study of Sociology includes many specialized subdisciplines, such as the sociologies of science, politics, education, aging, sport, family, work and occupations, medicine, organizations, collective behavior, and environment.
What is Anthropology?
Anthropology is the study of human societies and cultures and their development. Historically, Anthropology's focus was on non-Western or traditional society (sometimes erroneously referred to as primitive society), but that focus has broadened with time. As the field of Anthropology developed, the discipline became segmented into four unique areas of study: Cultural Anthropology, Archaeology, Physical Anthropology, and Linguistics.
What is Criminology?
Criminology is the scientific study of crime as a social phenomenon, which includes a focus on the causes, extent, types, and control of crime. The study of contemporary Criminology contributes to a holistic understanding of crime and criminal behavior through the analysis of a variety of subfields, such as crime measurement and statistics, theoretical explanations of crime, victimology, and crime control and prevention.
Departmental Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology is to deliver a high-quality undergraduate program that prepares students to contribute positively, and continue life-long learning, in a changing and diverse world. The Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology places highest priority on excellence in teaching that is enhanced by student activities.