Department of Sociology

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Why Study Sociology at the University of Missouri-Columbia?

The Department of Sociology is brought together by a common focus on a broad sociological perspective. Compared to most other graduate programs, we are less specialized and less dogmatic with reference to theoretical orientation, methodological preferences, and substantive interests. We pride ourselves on our willingness to engage critically and comparatively a broad range of substantive issues applying many different perspectives. The common theme which unites this diversity is our shared concern with the central theoretical and methodological issues of the discipline. Regardless of the substantive area, theoretical perspective, or methodological approach, we expect faculty and graduate students to engage the central issues that have been historical concerns of sociological work and to bring to bear a critical and reflexive perspective.

We train students to have a broad understanding of sociology, to use and develop the full corpus of sociological theory competently and creatively, and to thoughtfully take advantage of the full range of sociological research methods. We insist that students become familiar with current debates and new methods in our rapidly changing field, yet our emphasis is on the enduring concepts, issues, and perspectives that will outlive the "fads and foibles" of any single approach or historical moment. We engage in both basic and applied research. Both require a firm grounding in sociological theory and research methods and a common core of knowledge and skills. It is that core that is the primary focus of the graduate program.

Another common theme that characterizes much of our research and teaching is the relationship of research to social policy. We interpret this broadly to encompass basic research relating to fundamental human values, as well as applied research that has policy significance. Because of our concern for the policy implications of research, we place considerable stress on approaching research from a critical and reflexive perspective. Social research is a social process and, like any social process, it has implications for and is influenced by, the values and interests of the affected parties. We believe the sociological perspective provides an understanding of and a basis for approaching policy research that cannot be obtained from narrow and unreflexive views of social life.

312 Middlebush Hall
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211-6100
(573) 882-8331
Fax: (573) 884-6430