Resources for Prospective Students

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is sociology the same as social work?

  Sociology and social work both arose from Jane Addams' Hull House tradition, but they are different disciplines. Sociology prepares students to understand social problems and issues affecting communities and human societies at various levels. Social work prepares students to be practitioners, working directly with the individuals and communities that they serve, such as in the child welfare system. Students interested in working directly with clients can major in sociology and pursue a graduate degree in social work via DU's dual degree programs.

• I'm interested in criminal profiling/forensics/serial killers. Should I major in criminology?

  The advent of popular crime dramas on television has generated a great deal of interest in the criminology major. Rather than focusing on crime solving or individuals' motivations for committing crime, our department approaches the study of crime from a sociological perspective. This means we emphasize the causes and consequences of crime at the group, community, neighborhood and societal levels rather than at the individual level.

• Do I have to see a faculty advisor before registering for classes?

  Yes. Advising sign up sheets are posted outside faculty offices one week prior to official advising periods. No other department can sign off on a sociology or criminology major, so it's in your best interest to meet with one of our departmental advisors to make sure you will meet all major/minor requirements.

• How do I choose an advisor?

  Advisors are assigned to students as they enter the major, although you are free to visit with any faculty member to discuss your interests. Master advisor/advisee lists are kept in the Department of Sociology & Criminology office. Please email us if you forget who your assigned advisor is.

• I transferred to the University of Denver from another college. Will my sociology credits transfer?

  Approval of transfer credits is done on a case by case basis by our academic advisor, Hava Gordon, or our department chair, Lisa Pasko. See coursework approval work flow document for more details.