Sociology and Anthropology Bachelor of Science Degree

This bachelor of science degree at RIT, which pairs a sociology major with an anthropology major, is dedicated to understanding and appreciating social and cultural complexity and diversity across the globe and through time. You will be exposed to critical perspectives, theories, and research skills that are necessary to engage in complex global and local issues that crosscut the economy, politics, society, gender, ethnicity, and culture. Understanding societies both past and present better will prepare you to face the challenges of a rapidly changing world and to assume positions of leadership that promote vision and equity.

RIT’s Bachelor of Sociology and Anthropology

This integrated, multidisciplinary sociology and anthropology degree explores the common scholarly roots and creative differences of sociology and anthropology, through which you will gain a synergistic set of perspectives and skills that prepare you for social analysis in the broadest array of social and cultural settings. You will choose one of the following specializations: 

• Archaeology
• Cultural anthropology
• Sociology
• Sociocultural

Careers in sociology and anthropology include medicine and public health, law, business, international development, the not-for-profit sector, urban planning, architecture, social work, education, and government, among other possibilities.

RIT’s Pre-Law Program

Law schools welcome applications from students majoring in a wide range of academic programs including sociology and anthropology. RIT’s pre-law program helps you navigate the admission process for law school and explore a range of legal careers. Pre-law advisors guide you through course selection to ensure that you build the skills and competencies required of competitive law school applicants. 

Furthering Your Career in Sociology and Anthropology

Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees

Today’s careers require advanced degrees grounded in real-world experience. RIT’s Combined Accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s Degrees enable you to earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in as little as five years of study, all while gaining the valuable hands-on experience that comes from co-ops, internships, research, study abroad, and more.

• Sociology and Anthropology BS/Artificial Intelligence MS: With this accelerated dual-degree program, the study of sociological and anthropological factors such as race and ethnicity, cultural norms, belief systems, and social structures provides an invaluable and informed foundation for future artificial intelligence professionals.
• Sociology and Anthropology BS/Communication MS: An accelerated dual-degree program that builds on expertise in sociological and anthropological factors such as race and ethnicity, cultural norms, belief systems, and social structures to provide a foundation for successful, strategic communication through social media, applications of artificial intelligence, visual storytelling and data representation, organizational communication, engagement data analysis, and more.
• Sociology and Anthropology BS/Hospitality Business Management MS: In this accelerated dual degree pathway you'll pair a BS degree in sociology and anthropology with an MS degree in hospitality business management. You'll develop a foundational understanding of cultural and societal norms, belief systems, and expectations that can give hospitality and tourism leaders an advantage for success. This accelerated pathway is designed to prepare you with both deep and meaningful insight and analytical and technological skills.
• Sociology and Anthropology BS/Science, Technology, and Public Policy MS: An accelerated dual-degree that develops a foundational understanding of societal forces and issues to equip the policymakers of tomorrow to make informed and intelligent decisions regarding science, technology, and the public good.
• Sociology and Anthropology BS/Sustainable Systems MS: With this combined accelerated dual degree, you’ll gain a deep understanding of human behavior, cultural systems, and societal structures while learning how to apply sustainability science principles to global challenges. By combining social science with sustainability, you’ll be equipped to address issues such as environmental justice, community resilience, and sustainable development—preparing you for impactful careers in policy, advocacy, and international development.
• +1 MBA: Students who enroll in a qualifying undergraduate degree have the opportunity to add an MBA to their bachelor’s degree after their first year of study, depending on their program. Learn how the +1 MBA can accelerate learning and position you for success.

3+3 Accelerated BS/JD Programs

RIT has partnered with Syracuse University’s College of Law and University at Buffalo School of Law to offer accelerated 3+3 BS/JD options for highly capable students. These programs provide a fast track to law school where you can earn a bachelor’s degree at RIT and a Juris Doctorate degree at Syracuse University or University at Buffalo in six years. Interested students may apply to the option directly, with successful applicants offered admission to RIT and conditional acceptance into either Syracuse University’s College of Law or University at Buffalo School of Law.

RIT’s sociology and anthropology degree is one of the approved majors for the 3+3 option.

Learn more about Accelerated Law 3+3 Programs.

RIT’s Teaching Partnership Programs

Whether your goal is to go into early childhood or elementary education, become a secondary education teacher with a content area specialty at the middle or high school level, or work in the higher education field, RIT’s partnership programs with local universities provide a guided pathway to a career in teaching. 

4+1 programs enable you to earn your bachelor’s degree at RIT and a master’s degree in education at one of our partner universities. As you progress, you’ll benefit from focused academic advising, career exploration opportunities, and resources for research, learning, and skill development.

RIT’s sociology and anthropology degree is eligible for RIT’s Teaching Partnership Programs.