Majors merge in redesign of departments
The anthropology and sociology departments are combining for incoming students.
Like many departments at CSB+SJU, anthropology and sociology are making major changes to their program requirements. In fall of 2025, the two departments will be combined.
“Students will now be able to major in Sociology and Anthropology or add our very flexible joint minor (which consists of any five courses in our department) to enhance their other course of study,” Sociology Department Chair Ellen Block said.
The combined department will be called SOAN (Sociology/Anthropology). Students already focusing on either a sociology or anthropology path will be able to either switch to SOAN or continue their already planned course of study.
These curriculum changes provide an opportunity for students to fulfill requirements within their major without giving up the chance to travel.
“Many courses for SOAN can be filled abroad,” Block said.
The updated SOAN curriculum also allows students to complete more Integration Curriculum requirements. Within the major, students can fulfill the CI, CS, BN, EX, GL and QR attribute requirements as well as complete all three themes and two Ways of Thinking. This creates more room for other electives or areas of study for students looking to expand their education.
The updated Sociology and Anthropology courses will focus on quantitative and qualitative research skills to help students further their careers and network with real world clients. After completing data research, students will be able to present their findings at both local and national conferences.
The professors of the department hope that students who chose to study SOAN will make a real impact before they walk the graduation stage. Internships are also going to become a larger focus within the curriculum.
“As part of the redesigned major, we are strengthening internship options in Minnesota and beyond, and we have incorporated important job preparation skills into our curriculum,” Block said.
For students not looking into Sociology or Anthropology majors and minors but interested in taking classes under the new curriculum, the department looks to extend their options to other fields of study.
“We will also be developing courses that will be of interest to a wide range of students, from those in environmental studies, psychology, global health, business, exercise science and more,” Block said.