Uniting the social and cultural 

Linking two fields together, the Anthropology and Sociology program seeks to study the ways in which people live and interact together under various social and cultural conditions. By understanding the multifaceted dimensions of human societies, the disciplines seek to understand human behavior, social interactions and institutional structures in all their diversity.

Student Spotlight

ALEX BARNOSKY ’23
ANTHROPOLOGY AND SOCIOLOGY MAJOR

"Professor of Anthropology Jeffrey Anderson and Associate Professor of Anthropology Christopher Annear come to mind when I think of professors who have affected my studies. I appreciate how much they enjoy the subject and their personal examples of field work excite me for what is possible. Professor of Sociology Jack Harris is also very passionate about his work and it shows in the classroom. His insights have helped me see the world differently. After college, I would like to travel and pursue photography in the fields of Anthropology and Sociology using my knowledge from the major to succeed in the field of research."

 

Experiential EducationAn Actionable Scale

Engage in community-based research in the City of Geneva or attend a discussion-inducing lecture at the Fisher Center for the Study of Gender and Justice.

Because learning goes beyond textbooks or classrooms and into the community, you’ll get to explore the world’s most pressing issues while building the skills and insights you need to play a role in making its better future.

 

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No Borders:Global Education

Most Anthropology and Sociology majors engage in an experience abroad. Wherever you go, our top-ranked global education program will allow you to apply classroom knowledge, develop cultural understanding and build global connections that expand your personal capacity and sense of purpose.

Abroad

 

The departments of Anthropology and Sociology work together to provide an interdisciplinary experience to students in the program. Choose between a variety of courses in the individual Anthropology and Sociology departments to complete your major.

Alum Impact

ALLISON JORDAN ’21

J.D. Candidate at Northeastern University Law School 

An introductory course in sociology, a Witness to Innocence event on campus and involvement with the Centennial Center’s LEADS program inspired Allison to find solutions to the inequalities that exist in the world.

“The skills I have developed at Hobart and William Smith will allow me to engage with the community I am working with in meaningful ways. I am excited to apply them through my journey as an AmeriCorps member and beyond.”

companies that employ our graduates 

  • American Museum in Britain
  • Buffalo Bills
  • Eastman Kodak Company
  • Houghton Mifflin Publishers
  • IBM
  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
  • Microsoft
  • The Museum of Modern Art
  • New York Magazine
  • Target Corporation
  • World Health Organization
  • Yale University

Universities where our graduates are studying

  • Boston College of Social Work
  • Brown University
  • Case Western University School of Law
  • Columbia University
  • Indiana University
  • Northeastern University
  • Pace University Law School
  • Rutgers University
  • Simmons College
  • Syracuse University
  • University College London 
  • University of Pennsylvania
  • University of Utah Law School