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UNDERSTANDING SOCIAL
STRUCTURES AND RELATIONS
through sociological research and real-life applications


Who We Are

Students discussing in a circle in professor Hillary Silver's class

In the George Washington University Department of Sociology, students analyze human social structures through classwork, research and practical workplace experience. Our undergraduate and graduate degree programs explore sociology’s many applications to the world around us, with options including sociological theory, criminal justice and our in-house Human Services and Social Justice Program.

Surrounded by the rich social laboratory of Washington, D.C., sociology students enjoy professional opportunities at institutions like the Department of Justice, the Supreme Court, the White House and a variety of social justice nonprofits. Under the guidance of faculty, students build the skills and networks they need for future careers as researchers, professors, child care workers, nonprofit leaders, criminal investigators, rehabilitation counselors and much more.
 


Departmental Focus Areas

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Social Inequality

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Gender

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Race

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Immigration

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Criminal Justice

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Urban Sociology

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Human Services
& Social Justice

Faculty by Research Area


News from Sociology

Banned books

Ask a GW Expert: What Banned Books Should I Read This Summer?

Tired of the predictable paperbacks on your summer stack? Sociology’s Daina Eglitis shares her banned-book recommendations for bolder beach reads.

 

More News and Events

 

 

 

 

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"I can say without a doubt that my choice to major in sociology at GW has been one of the best decisions I have ever made. It has changed the course of my intellectual development, grounded my worldview and equipped me with knowledge that I will continue to cherish long after I graduate.”

Damien Galvan
Outstanding Senior in Sociology Award Recipient
BA '26, Sociology and Political Science