Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Sociology and Political Science
Get hands-on experience with an internship at a local municipality, government office and more.
This program combines insights from sociology and political science to study how people, societies and governments interact.
Sociology and Political Science Degree at a Glance
Program Type
Major
Mode of Study
On Campus
Internship
Guaranteed
Est. Time
4 Years
Start Terms
Fall, Spring
Cost
School
Accreditation
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The Sociology and Political Science Major
By combining the perspectives and methodologies of both sociology and political science, you’ll be prepared for careers that require an understanding of social dynamics and political processes. Wonder what those may be? Think journalism, consulting, community planning, law and more!
Gain skills in critical thinking, qualitative and quantitative research, spreadsheet software, data analysis, data visualization, written and oral communication and leadership.
What You'll Study
Both sociology and political science want the same thing: to learn how societies function. Prepare to study some of the best ways to make that happen!
Social Interaction
Political Ethics
Survey and Statistical Analysis
Human Behavior
Immigration
U.S. Foreign Policy
Law and Society
Social Problems
Skills You'll Learn
The skills you’ll learn through the sociology and political science major will allow you to enter into many fields upon graduation. These skills include:
Critical Thinking
Data Visualization
Data Analysis
Leadership
Sociology and Political Science Courses You'll Take
Politics
of the U.S.
POL 1100
An introduction to the American political system, this course examines the Constitutional basis of American politics and the national institutions that are involved in decision-making and public debate (for example, the Presidency and the bureaucracy, the Federal Courts, the Congress, political parties and the media).
Social Problems,
Creative Solutions
SOC 1700
This course will explore how some of the most pressing social problems in the U.S. – such as crime, violence, addiction, sexism, racism, class inequality, and heterosexism – are created by unequal power relationships, hierarchical social structures and taken-for-granted cultural beliefs and social practices.
Sociology
of Immigration
SOC 3651
Consider immigrants originating from and settling in all parts of the world with focus primarily on the United States. We will use a combination of perspectives from social science, history, law, economics, and politics to analyze the most important events, theories, concepts and ideas related to immigration.
See All Courses & Options Available to Sociology and Political Science Majors
Sociology and Political Science Major Requirements
General Education Requirements
In addition to the major requirements below, you will also need to complete Merrimack’s general education requirements.
To see more details about the major, please visit catalog.merrimack.edu.
Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Sample Four-Year Schedule - Curriculum Guide
Why Choose the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Political Science?
This unique major combines the perspectives of two social science disciplines: Sociology and Political Science.
ADAPTABILITY IN THE JOB MARKET
Students will develop expertise in both areas to make themselves more adaptable and marketable.
TRUE CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Examining societal issues from multiple perspectives makes you a versatile thinker and a strong candidate.
Career Outlook: Where Can a Sociology and Political Science Degree Take You?
Career Outcomes Rate
94% of the undergraduate class of 2023 in Arts & Sciences were either employed, participating in voluntary service or continuing their education within nine months of graduation.
Experiential Learning
90% of the undergraduate class of 2023 participated in at least one internship, co-op, clinical, practicum or research opportunity while at Merrimack.
Graduate School
Merrimack, New England School of Law, George Washington University and Boston College are just some of the graduate programs Arts & Sciences graduates are attending.
Jobs with a Sociology and Political Science Degree
Upon completing our program, you’ll be well-equipped to pursue graduate study or a career in social science and related disciplines. Positions may include:
- Social Researcher
- Journalist
- Political Consultant
- Policy Analyst
- Community Planner
- Human Rights Advocate
Beyond the Classroom
Student Life
You’ll have endless opportunities to find your fit, get involved and pursue what makes you happy—all while making lifelong friends (and memories!).
Explore your passions alongside others with similar interests, whether that means a cappella singing or outdoor adventuring.
- 70+ student organizations
- Division I Athletics, club and intramural sports
- Beloved traditions like Homecoming, Block Party and Spring Concert
- Fraternities and sororities
Internships & Co-Ops
Our students gain valuable work experience and connections with leading companies through guaranteed internships and the Warriors at Work co-op program. Recent placements include:
- Interning with Homeland Security Investigations, shadowing special agents
- Interning at Delta Tech-Ops, working in components engineering
- Working as a tax intern at Baker Tilly
Research with Faculty
With access to cutting-edge tools, undergraduate students can collaborate with faculty on research projects that can lead to presentations and publications.
- Explore the complexities of the human mind in a state-of-the-art psychology lab.
- Understand how inflammation affects immune cell aging in our Shared Instrumentation and Research Facility.
- Build fully functional battle bots for competitions.
Study Abroad
Global Merrimack provides transformative, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Our 30+ study abroad programs include semesters abroad, faculty-led trips and international internships.
- Explore and study in the Dominican Republic or Iceland.
- Immerse yourself in cities like Dublin, Madrid or Rome.
- Experience a semester at sea or intern in vibrant cities like London or Paris.
Service Learning
Community and service are at the heart of our Augustinian mission.
Over 1,000 students work together to engage in hands-on service learning projects each year, supporting our communities and those in need.
- Participate in our campus-wide Mack Gives Back volunteer days.
- Spend your winter, spring, or summer break on an immersive SEND trip in the U.S. or abroad, helping those in need.
- Tutor students in nearby school districts.
See for Yourself
Programs Related to the Sociology and Political Science Major
Explore other areas and where they can take you.
Take the Next Step (We're Here to Help)
At Merrimack, we are ready to meet you where you are and get you where you want to go. And, we make the process simple along the way!
Upcoming Events
Info Session & Campus Tour
Monday-Friday & Most Saturdays
Attend a 20-minute info session led by an admission counselor and then take a student-led campus tour. Registration is required.
Merrimack College Awards & Recognition
U.S. News & World Report | Best Regional Universities North (2024)
- Most Innovative Schools (#5)
- Regional Universities North (#39)
- Best Undergraduate Teaching (#19)
- Best Colleges for Veterans (#15)
- Best Value Schools (#51)
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