Sociology is the study of social relations in groups, institutions and organizations, communities, and entire societies. The Department of Sociology at University of Memphis offers a broad range of courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

We are committed to being a dynamic, learning-centered department that promotes the greater understanding and analysis of social relations in groups, institutions and organizations, communities, and entire societies. Our contribution is made through cutting-edge research, excellent undergraduate and graduate teaching, exciting applied opportunities, vital service and community outreach, and preparation of students for a wide range of jobs.

Goals:

• Research:
  To promote outstanding research in the broad field of sociology. Our research examines a variety of substantive topics (see above) and attempts to explain and interpret them within the context of sociological theories. We value all areas of research and support collaborative efforts.
• Teaching:
  To promote outstanding undergraduate and graduate education in a positive learning environment. At the undergraduate level we teach a wide variety of courses, offer students an opportunity to gain valuable applied experience (see below), and prepare them for jobs or entry into graduate school. At the graduate level we provide high-quality instruction, facilitate student research opportunities, encourage faculty-student collaboration, and prepare students for entry into their professional fields. We aspire for our students - both graduate and undergraduate - to develop a sociological imagination and apply it to the critical social problems that affect all of us as we head into the new century.
• Practical Experience and Applied Opportunities:
  To provide both undergraduate and graduate students with unique learning opportunities in the "field". Opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and other training programs are important features of the department. Students learn to think about, refine, and apply what they learn in the classroom.
• Technological Expertise:
  To promote the development of new resources and technologies for teaching and research, including on-line courses, CD-ROMS, web sites, and interactive instruction. We also engage in activities with other institutions and organizations to share resources that will enhance teaching with technology.
• Globalization:
  To promote the development of research projects, teaching resources, and outreach initiatives that lead to a deeper understanding of our interconnected world. We live in an increasingly global world and, therefore, it is important that our students and people in the community are exposed to information that helps them appreciate the world and operate effectively in it.
• Service and Community Outreach:
  To promote service and outreach activities to the larger community through teaching courses off-campus, providing on-line resources, volunteering to improve the community, and offering consulting expertise to a variety of organizations.

Areas of Expertise

• Social Inequality - studies of gender, race, class, and social movements
• Institutions and Organizations - studies of religion, family, education, economy, and medicine
• Comparative Social Change - studies of community, development, globalization, and quality of life
• Deviance and Social Psychology - studies of mental health, marginality, small-group interaction, social identities, and changing belief patterns
• Methodology - studies incorporating qualitative and quantitative methods, as well as the latest technology for teaching and research

Values:

• Integrity - at all times
• Diversity - inclusion of everyone regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, or disability
• Community - of scholars, teachers, and people
• Compassion - toward everyone;
• Excellence - commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service;
• Creativity - utilizing creative and innovative solutions to all challenges;
• Collaboration - with colleagues and students inside and outside the department and University.