Sociology

Sociology at Waikato moves you beyond assumptions and explores who we are and our place in the world. You'll study human relationships and how societies form. Sociology at Waikato is highly respected and is a top 300 QS-rated subject.
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Why study Sociology?

You'll explore how people organise and form groups, form larger social structures, and how societies evolve over time. As a budding sociologist, you'll be challenged to assume little in the hopes of clearing the way for new conclusions.

You'll ask questions like how different groups view social reality and why certain views become accepted within groups over time. You'll dissect the interwoven nature and influence of parents, peers, elders, teachers and the media on society. We'll also challenge you to consider why some societies are war-torn while others remain peaceful – why some behaviour is acceptable while others are less desirable. You'll look for solutions and debate how societies change.

Sociology at Waikato takes a thematic approach and includes papers in criminology, the family, popular culture and theoretical perspectives.  As part of a degree in Sociology papers in social policy, women and gender studies and labour studies can be included.

Teaching staff provide plenty of mentoring and direction along the way and allow students opportunities to throw out ideas in a relaxed and informal learning environment. Studying Sociology at Waikato will open your eyes to the inner workings of society and how people drive them.

Career Opportunities

  • Community Advocate
  • Community Development Advisor
  • Criminal justice worker
  • Criminology researcher
  • Journalist
  • Policy Analyst
  • Research Advisor
  • Teacher
  • Youth or Family Worker

Hamilton, Tauranga, Online

Study in Tauranga

In Tauranga you can major in Sociology within these degrees:

Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

Sociology papers

Contact us

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School of Social Sciences

School of Social Sciences, The University of Waikato, Ground Floor, J Block, Gate 1, Knighton Road, Hamilton