Students can gain work experience and earn credits toward their degree by working in a public agency or private business. In the past, students have interned in such organizations as schools, hospitals, nursing homes, homeless shelters, substance abuse treatment programs, youth recreation centers, libraries, police departments, probation departments, crisis hotlines, law firms, and marketing firms. Most students find their own internship placements, but sociology faculty may be able to offer some assistance. Faculty members engage in their own research may also offer internship possibilities within the department.

The Internship Program is listed as Sociology 325 (Field Work) for 1 to 3 credits. There are no regular class meetings, but students must meet, at times to be arranged, with a faculty advisor several times throughout the semester. Course requirements include 90 hours of field work (6 to 8 hours per week for the duration of the semester) and academic assignments related to the field placement (which may include readings, book reviews, research projects, term papers, etc.). Final grades will be calculated on the basis of academic assignments and an evaluation submitted by the internship supervisor.

Registration for Sociology 325 is by permission only.