About the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Criminology at ISU
Welcome to the Sociology and Criminology Department at Idaho State University!
At Idaho State University, we take pride in offering a diverse range of programs and courses in sociology, social work, and criminology. Our department is committed to providing students with a comprehensive education that explores social issues, promotes social justice, and delves into the complexities of criminal justice.
Our department consists of four interconnected programs: Sociology, Criminology, Social Work, and Gender and Sexuality Studies. We believe in fostering collaboration with other departments and programs within the College of Arts and Letters, contributing to the overall mission of the college.
The Department focuses on research, theory, and service in relation to the community. We understand that the community plays a pivotal role in the lives of individuals, and it serves as a platform for studying various aspects such as health and illness, diversity and social hierarchies, and criminology. By emphasizing community issues, we aim to showcase the relevance of sociology at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, create a niche for social work in areas like child welfare, gerontology, and sexual diversity, and establish a pivotal role for criminology by emphasizing rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into the community.
We are proud to share that the ISU Master's in Sociology Program has been ranked #1 in the Northwest and #23 in the nation by Intelligent.com, recognizing the excellence of our program.
Our Sociology programs provide a deep understanding of human society, social behavior, and social interactions. Through our curriculum, students gain a solid foundation in sociological theory, research methodologies, and the application of sociological research. By exploring various sociological perspectives and engaging in critical analysis, our students develop a nuanced understanding of the social world around them.
For those passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities, our Social Work degrees are designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills. Our social work programs equip students with a strong understanding of social work principles, ethics, and practices. Through classroom instruction, hands-on experiences, and fieldwork opportunities, our students develop the competencies required to address social issues and advocate for social justice.
If your interests lie in understanding crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system, our Criminology courses are tailored for you. Our curriculum explores topics such as the causes of crime, criminal justice policies, and strategies for crime prevention. By examining the social, psychological, and economic factors that contribute to criminal behavior, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of crime in our society.
Within the Sociology and Criminology Department, we foster a dynamic research environment. Our faculty members are experts in the fields of sociology, social work, and criminology, and they actively engage in sociological research. We offer research opportunities in areas such as social inequality and crime prevention, providing students with valuable hands-on experience and the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research.
A degree in sociology, social work, or criminology from Idaho State University opens doors to a wide range of career prospects. Graduates of our programs have found success in fields such as social services, criminal justice, advocacy, research, and community development. The knowledge and skills acquired through our programs prepare students to address pressing social issues, promote social justice, and make a positive impact on individuals and communities.
To explore the specific programs we offer, please visit our Programs page at [https://www.isu.edu/sswc/programs/]. Here, you will find detailed information about our sociology programs, social work degrees, and criminology courses. We take pride in offering diverse and comprehensive programs that cater to a variety of academic interests and career goals.
Our esteemed faculty members bring a wealth of expertise to the classroom and research endeavors. To learn more about our faculty and staff, visit our Faculty & Staff page at [https://www.isu.edu/sswc/faculty--staff/]. Our faculty members are dedicated educators, mentors, and researchers who are passionate about their fields and committed to supporting students in their academic journey.
We invite you to explore our website and discover the many opportunities available in the field of sociology and criminology at Idaho State University. Join us in exploring social issues, understanding criminal justice, and making a positive difference in the world through the study of sociology, social work, and criminology.