Sociology

Sociology is the study of how individuals affect wider groups, institutions and society as a whole and how these groups and institutions in turn affect individuals. It provides an understanding of how groups and institutions work. The Swinburne Sociology major has a strong emphasis on policy and research skills. It provides a broad understanding of research design and students learn about different methods, ranging from participant observation and focus groups through to large scale surveys and analysis of secondary data. A sociological perspective is an essential part of informed decision making and human resource management in a rapidly changing social world.

Sociology at Swinburne studies Australian society in an international perspective. It also focuses on the social consequences of new technology, particularly biotechnology and information technology. The program takes an applied approach, emphasising how sociology can be used to solve practical problems faced by individuals, organisations and governments.

Some students majoring in Sociology will have the opportunity to gain experience of social research in the workplace through the Sociology internship program.

Faculty of Life and Social Sciences
Tel: +61 3 9214 8859
Fax: +61 3 9214 5921
Email: lssinfo@swin.edu.au
Website: www.swinburne.edu.au/lss/