program description 

international direct is designed for international students with advanced english-language skills. the focus is on academic, cultural and professional growth so students can excel in school and prepare for a successful future.

sociology is the study of social life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how people interact within these contexts. since all human behavior is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from brief individual interactions to persistent social structures and institutions, and major processes of social change.

sociology provides a unique perspective on our lives and our communities. sociology classes are lively and engaging and provide an opportunity to learn about and discuss critical social issues. sociology majors develop strong skills and habits of critical and analytical thinking and written and oral communication. critical and analytical sociological thinking includes analysis of qualitative and quantitative data, taking into account the history, structure and context of events in order to better understand their origins, understanding different perspectives, creating and explaining a reasoned argument, and setting goals and priorities. sociology majors learn to write clear and concise long and short essays and to speak effectively in group settings. sociology majors develop strong cultural competence - the capacity to develop a critical self-awareness and to understand the situations and perspectives of people from different backgrounds and cultures, and therefore to work well as a team member and leader in diverse settings.