Sociology and Urban Studies

Dr. Marilyn Cohen at a book signing for her most recent book No Girls in the Clubhouse

David S. Surrey, Ph.D., Chairperson
Room 402, Hilsdorf Hall – 51 Glenwood
Saint Peter’s College
Jersey City, NJ 07306
E-mail dsurrey@spc.edu

Mission Statement

Sociology and Urban Studies are four-year courses of study leading to Bachelor’s degrees. Both degrees prepare students for graduate work and employment. Sociology can lead to careers in social work, advertising, marketing, and government, including foreign service, as well as teaching. Urban Studies graduates often work in social work, government agencies, planning firms, private non-profits, community organizations and private industry. Many graduates from both majors are also double majors in Education and become school teachers or administrators.

Close to  half of our classes have moved beyond the gates of the college to include community learning components. To improve the educational experiences of SPC students we introduce them to community based research and the work that local organizations do.  We have teamed up with local governmental and community based organizations to do evaluations, plan programs and allow students to explore career possibilities. Our students conduct research projects, hold conferences, attend conferences and continue to work with community groups and faculty to learn new research skills. 

Sociology majors acquire a greater understanding and appreciation of life in a diverse world. They become aware of how society influences lives. They learn to value the power of individuals and groups in changing society. Majors develop skills in gathering and analyzing data on social issues and putting this information into a sociological context. Sociology also has a six year articulation agreement in Occupational Therapy with Seton Hall University where students will receive a BA in three years from Saint Peter's and an MS in Occupational Therapy from Seton Hall in another three years.

Sociology Major and double minor in Anthropology and Latino/Latin American Studies Alexandra Hernandez is spending a semester abroad at the American University in Cairo Illinois Egypt.

A program in Public Policy is available in the School of Professional and Continuing Studies for both an Associate’s and Bachelor’s degree.