Gain deep insights into the ways society functions and shapes the lives of individuals and groups.
Understand the world around you and prepare for a career that makes a difference through sociology or criminal justice at Adelphi.
As a sociology or criminal justice major, you’ll examine how social structures influence everyday life—from opportunity and inequality to law, policy and human rights. Our program combines theory, research and real-world analysis to help you understand how societies function and change. And you can expand your perspective by studying a range of subjects relating to crime, delinquency, law, inequality as well as race, gender, family, education, immigration, and health.
You’ll learn in small classes led by distinguished faculty members who prioritize open dialogue. And you’ll develop skills in active listening, effective communication, problem solving and data analysis. It’s preparation for successful careers in law, public policy, advocacy, education, government and beyond.
Take advantage of everything Adelphi has to offer… establish standing relationships with the faculty and staff; they will be your champions.
Shayla Clarke ’16, MS ’19
BS in Criminal Justice and MS in Emergency Management, 10 Under 10 Award Recipient
Faculty and Student Research
Critical thinking and hands-on engagement are at the heart of your sociology and criminal justice education at Adelphi. Our faculty guide you in exploring social systems, inequality, law, policy and community issues while encouraging original inquiry, debate and applied learning.
Our sociology and criminal justice faculty are experienced researchers whose work incorporates a wide variety of methodologies. Their scholarly interests are varied as well, and include studies in areas relating to race and ethnicity, social movements, class and gender, immigration, social policy, mental health, and criminal justice. They will guide you in exploring these areas, helping you deepen your critical thinking and research skills.
You’ll have opportunities to present your research at Adelphi’s annual Scholarship and Creative Works Conference, participate in public forums or conferences, and engage with organizations in the community—helping you build your professional network and real-world experience.
Through the SPARK Center (Scholars Pursuing Arts, Research, and Knowledge), you can access funding, mentorship, and resources to turn your innovative ideas into meaningful research projects that make an impact.
A Celebration of the Latino Student Experience
Proposed by Jacqueline Olvera and led by Giovani Burgos, Program Director of Latin American & Latinx Studies, the giant student-created mural that adorns the exterior wall of the Swirbul Library celebrates the pride and accomplishment of the growing Latino population at Adelphi.
Student Life and Hands-On Learning
Sociology and criminal justice students have many opportunities to extend their learning well beyond the classroom. The department works with organizations across the region to provide internships, while campus programs offer ways for students to expand their perspective and get involved.
Internship Opportunities
Students gain real-world experience through internships with community organizations and nonprofits, applying sociological thinking to real challenges while building professional networks. Our sociology department has developed relationships with numerous organizations in the New York area to provide meaningful internships for our students.
Global Perspectives in Action
Studying sociology and criminal justice means understanding how culture and social systems shape communities, justice, and policing around the world. Through Adelphi’s faculty-led study abroad programs and the Levermore Global Scholars program, students can explore these dynamics firsthand while earning academic credit.
Student Clubs and Organizations
Get involved and build connections by joining the Criminal Justice Club, Criminal Justice Honor Society – Alpha Phi Sigma, Adelphi’s chapter of Alpha Kappa Delta and other student organizations across campus focused on social justice, advocacy, research and community engagement. Network with peers, collaborate on projects, and develop leadership skills while making an impact on campus and in the broader community.
Considering Law School?
Sociology and criminal justice majors develop strong analytical, research and communication skills while examining how laws, institutions and social systems shape society—preparing them well for success in law school.
