About sociology

Sociologists investigate the key social and global issues of our time. We focus on diverse communities, cultures and processes of change. We examine class, gender, ethnicity, power and culture to understand how societies work and how social problems can be solved.

Why choose sociology?

Our sociology program is among the most highly-ranked sociology programs in Australia, with your lecturers being leaders in the discipline. On graduation you’ll have the capacity to critically assess major social problems, social design, undertake and assess research – ranging from broad scale statistical studies to small scale qualitative research – with diverse communities.

What will you study?

Sociology addresses changing social organisation and consequences for the life opportunities of individuals, families and groups in our rapidly changing global context.

You’ll explore topics such as:

• Social structures
• Cultures and processes of change
• Class, gender, ethnicity and power.

Units include:

• Cultural diversity and identity
• Youth, culture and social change
• Global consumption
• Sexuality and society
• Health, culture and society
• Sustainability and society
• Contemporary issues in social science research

What careers will you be ready for?

Sociology opens up employment opportunities in areas of:

• Public service
• Research organisations
• Social welfare
• Community sector agencies
• International development
• Media, communications and advertising, and much more.

Who will be teaching you?

Sociology staff are consistently recognised for their high quality teaching, and are the recipients of numerous teaching awards, commendations and citations. Many of our units are rated among the very best in the university.

Our teaching approach is designed to create an exciting and dynamic learning environment, and we are leaders in seminar teaching and blended learning (in both educational technologies and face-to-face modes of teaching).

Global study

With Monash’s impressive international links, you’ll have the opportunity to venture into contexts to enhance your learning.

Short term programs:

• Field methods in Anthropology and international development – Malaysia
• Cultural diversity in contemporary Europe – Italy

Exchange programs include:

• University of Wisconsin-Madison – USA
• University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill – USA
• National University of Singapore – Singapore
• Free University of Berlin – Germany
• Monash Malaysia – Malaysia.

GIG: Global Immersion Guarantee

The Monash Arts Global Immersion Guarantee (GIG) is an award-winning initiative that will enable you to explore first-hand the relationships between society, technology and the environment. It’s a two-week, funded study trip for all eligible first-year Monash Arts, single or double degree students to one of six destinations – China, India, Indonesia, Italy, Malaysia or the Pacific Islands.