Research and service are two important components of sociology curriculum.

Research

Students majoring in Sociology have two options for research during their senior year.  As part of the major student complete either SOC 496: Seminar in Public Sociology or SOC 499 Research in Sociology.  Students in the public sociology course undertakes research on a social issue and engage in community action on this issue. This project allows a student to utilize the theories, methodologies, and knowledge that she has gained throughout her sociology major to not only study a problem impacting the local community, but also to pose a solution.  This year students in the course in both the fall and spring will focus their attention on the topic of mental health.  Throughout the public sociology course students will research the issue, volunteer at local agencies and use their sociological training to pose a plan of action on this issue.

Students opting to take SOC 499 Research in Sociology work with a faculty mentor to plan, design and implement a research project of their own choosing.  This allows the student an opportunity to explore her own interests related to a topic, to be mentored through the research project and to present her research at a local or regional conference.

Additionally all students at Meredith College have the opportunity to participate in the Undergraduate Research Program. Through this program students can collaborate with faculty on research projects, and apply for funding to cover research costs and to present the findings of their research at various conferences. For more information on the Undergraduate Research Program, contact Rebecca Duncan at (919) 760-8817 or duncanr@meredith.edu.

Service

Service is a key component in the sociology major. Several courses in the major include service as a way for students to not only meet the needs of the community, but also to gain a better understanding of the discipline of sociology and an enhanced sense of civic responsiblity.  Students can also undertake service as part of their public sociology project or through internships.

Organizations

Alpha Kappa Delta, International Sociology Honor Society

Anthropon Katamanthanein Diakonesein
"To investigate humanity for the purpose of service."

Students who have an overall 3.0 GPA in sociology course work and who meet all other requirements as outlined by the society are eligible for membership in Alpha Kappa Delta. Inductions are held every spring.Through the honor society, students are invited to participate in regional meetings, conferences, and are eligible for scholarships and travel support.

Congratulations to these Meredith members:

Amanda Mills '08

Jessica Wolf '08

Margot Childs '07

Joni Liverman '07

Kelly Farkas, '06
Courtney Price, '06
Jennie Beuhler, '05
Julie Neisemier, '05
Amanda Beasley, '04
Kelly Brown, '04
Randi Byrd, '04
Lisa Gouge, '04
Davetta Landers, '04
Laura Poindexter, '04
Amanda Cheek, '03

For more information on Alpha Kappa Delta, visit www.alphakappadelta.org.