Sociology/Social Work (AA.SSW)

Sociologists and social workers are united by a passion for understanding people and making a real-world impact.

Sociology gives us the tools to make sense of the world around us:  how people connect, how power works, and why our communities function the way they do. It helps us see the bigger picture behind everyday life. Social work builds on that knowledge, focusing on creating positive change and helping individuals thrive. Together, these fields empower us to not just understand society, but to improve it.

Why Major in Sociology?

Understand Your Community. Make a Difference. Build Your Future.

Sociology is the study of people, relationships, and the systems that shape our lives, both on a large scale and right here in our towns, neighborhoods, and rural communities.

As a sociology student, you’ll explore real-life topics that matter:

• Poverty, inequality, and opportunity
• Family life, education, and work
• Health care, addiction, and mental health
• Community issues, migration, and social change

Sociology gives you the tools to:

✔ Support and serve your community
✔ Prepare for careers in social work, counseling, law enforcement, teaching, and healthcare
✔ Transfer to a 4-year school with confidence and purpose
✔ Create positive change, one person or one policy at a time

If you care about people, love your community, and want to make a real impact—sociology is the path for you.

Why Major in Social Work?

Turn Compassion into Action

Do you find yourself thinking, “How can I help?” when you see someone struggling? If so, social work might be the path for you.

As a social work student, you’ll learn how to create real change.  Whether that’s working directly with individuals and families or addressing larger community and policy issues.

In Social Work, you’ll learn how to:

• Support individuals through tough times
• Connect people to vital resources
• Advocate for children, seniors, and vulnerable populations
• Understand how poverty, addiction, and mental health impact rural areas
• Prepare for a rewarding career or transfer to a bachelor’s degree program

Social work students explore topics like:

✔ Family and child welfare
✔ Substance abuse and recovery
✔ Community resources and outreach
✔ Crisis intervention and advocacy
✔ Ethics and professional practice

A Shared Mission: Social Work + Sociology

Social work shares some common ground with sociology:  we both study human behavior and social systems. Here, sociology and social work live in the same department for transfer students, led by faculty who are passionate about people and deeply committed to preparing you for leadership and service. Together, these disciplines give you a strong foundation for making a difference.

Difference Between the two Career Paths According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics

Meet your faculty

“Lake Land College is a great place to start your sociology journey. Our program gives you a strong foundation and the support you need to transfer smoothly to a four-year school. If you want to understand society and prepare for a meaningful career, sociology here is the perfect first step.”

-Katie Parrish, Sociology Faculty and Sociology/Social Work Advisor, Lake Land College