BA in Sociology

The BA in Sociology at Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E. provides students with a rigorous theoretical, analytical, and research-grounded education in the study of social life. Drawing on classical and contemporary sociological traditions, the program equips students to examine the forces shaping human behavior, social institutions, and processes of change across diverse cultural, historical, and global contexts. 

Students engage with a wide range of sociological subfields — including, but not limited to,   sociological theory, inequality, criminology, migration, globalization, media and society, culture, urban sociology, gender, social movements, modern Greek society,  and the sociology of science and technology — developing a comprehensive and interdisciplinary understanding of the social world. 

The program develops the following core competencies: 

• A strong foundation in classical and contemporary sociological theory 
• Critical and analytical thinking applied to social phenomena and institutions 
• Qualitative and quantitative research skills, from research design to data analysis and academic writing 
• The ability to synthesize sociological knowledge with theoretical and empirical evidence 
• Effective written and oral communication in academic contexts 
• An interdisciplinary orientation connecting Sociology with related social science disciplines 
• Independent learning and reflective thinking in preparation for postgraduate study and professional practice 

Grounded in the Liberal Education model of Deree, The American University of Greece U.L.E., the program combines broad intellectual development with deep disciplinary specialization, preparing graduates to engage meaningfully with the social challenges of the contemporary world.

The BA in Sociology at Deree stands out for several reasons: 

• An exceptional faculty team with internationally recognized expertise in sociological theory, social research methods, , migration, social movements. gender and social inequalities, criminology,  , media, film and visual culture, cities, urban life and the environment, modern Greek society, and social and cultural change.  
• A rich and diverse curriculum spanning  more than 30 Sociology courses, progressing from foundational courses through theory and research methods   to advanced and specialized study, offering students genuine depth and breadth in the discipline 
• A strong research training strand that develops both qualitative and quantitative skills, culminating in an independent Senior Year Thesis 
• A curriculum that takes full advantage of Athens as a social and cultural laboratory, with courses on modern Greek society, urban sociology, migration, and social movements directly relevant to the local and regional context 
• An American-accredited degree from Roger Williams University (RWU), recognized internationally and benchmarked to U.S. and European academic standards 
• Internship opportunities (SO 4180) that allow students to apply their sociological knowledge, explore career paths and gain  professional experience in settings such as research centers, NGOs, media and cultural institutions , and public organizations.  
• Study abroad possibilities through the institution's global network of partner universities 
• A Liberal Education program that broadens intellectual horizons and develops transferable skills essential for professional and civic life. 

The BA in Sociology is designed for students who are curious about the world around them and motivated to understand the social forces, structures, and inequalities that shape everyday life. It is an ideal fit for those who: 

• Are passionate about understanding society, social change, power, inequality, and human behavior.
• Enjoy asking critical questions about contemporary social issues such as migration, crime, media, gender, globalization, social movements  and urban life.
• Are interested in careers in research, policy, education, social services, media, NGOs, or public administration.
• Want to develop strong analytical, writing, and research skills applicable across a broad range of professional fields.
• Are drawn to interdisciplinary thinking and connecting sociological insights with history, politics, cultural studies, and the social sciences.
• Aspire to postgraduate study and professional development in diverse fields that value analytical thinking, research skills, and sociological insight. 
• Are interested in social justice, community engagement, and contributing to evidence-based approaches to social problems.

Liberal Education Curriculum

As a required component of all undergraduate degree programs, the Liberal Education Curriculum provides students with a broad interdisciplinary foundation that complements their major while developing essential academic, professional, and lifelong learning skills.

Sociology Curriculum 

Students develop a broad understanding of society, social relationships, institutions, and processes of social change. The program combines sociological theory with research and practical application, helping students strengthen their analytical, critical-thinking, research, and communication skills while exploring complex social issues and preparing for a range of academic and professional pathways.

The Liberal Education courses included in each program of study are taught by members of the Liberal Education faculty, who support the full range of relevant courses across all programs.

Graduates of the BA in Sociology are equipped for careers across a wide range of sectors and roles and are well-positioned for postgraduate study. 

Career Paths 

• Social researcher or research analyst (academic, governmental, or private sector) 
• Policy analyst or advisor in social policy, migration, or public administration 
• NGO program officer, project coordinator, community development worker, or humanitarian coordinator 
• Journalist, media analyst, or communications professional 
• Human resources, employ relations, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) or organizational development professional  
• Educator or academic researcher 
•  Community engagement and social development professional  
• Social services practitioner (where additional qualifications are required) 

Industries and Organizations 

• Research institutes and think tanks 
• Government ministries and public agencies (social policy, migration, labor, justice) 
• International and intergovernmental organizations 
• International NGOs, human rights, and civil society organizations 
• Media and digital communications organizations 
• Corporations with CSR, DEI, and social affairs divisions 
• Healthcare and social services organizations 
• Educational institutions 

Graduate Study Opportunities 

The program provides excellent preparation for postgraduate study in sociology, and a wide range of related fields, including criminology, migration studies, media and communication studies, public policy, social research, education, human rights, urban studies  and related  disciplines, at leading institutions in Greece, Europe, the United States and internationally.