Faculty in the Sociology Department share a commitment to applying sociological principles and concepts through field work and research within community organizations, especially those in the Lowell community.

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For students, our commitment translates into multiple opportunities for hands-on learning, both inside the classroom and out. Many of our sociology classes hold a real-world learning component. Learn more about our Real-World Learning Sociology Courses.

Student Opportunities for Research

Sociology students have the opportunity to take on intensive research projects to enhance their understanding of the world around them. Students' research can involve working with professors as research assistants, conducting research for community partners and designing research projects of their own.

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Sociology Students Involved in Research

Connor Stemple designed and administered a campus wide survey to better understand why students choose their major and specifically why students choose to major in sociology. He designed the survey and analyzed the survey's results alongside professor Mignon Duffy in a Directed Study course.

The Emerging Scholars Program provides students with a unique year-long opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained from courses at UMass Lowell to a faculty member's on-going research. Emerging Scholars work one-on-one with a faculty member to aid in the development of their research projects. Students who participate gain valuable research experience and build on their classroom learning.
Examples of projects sociology majors have worked on include:
  • Travis Overton worked with Political Science professor Angelica Duran-Martinez on "Coping with Danger and Fear: Organized Civilian Response to Drug Violence"
  • Kayla Walkling worked with Psychology professor Urmitapa Dutta on "Reframing Everyday Violence from the Perspectives of Youth: A Participatory Action Research Project."
  • Nicole Lynch worked with English and Gender Studies professor Marlowe Miller on "The Representation of Domestic Space in Novels by Women Authors."