Social and Economic Disparities
The ISU Sociology department’s area of study, Social and Economic Disparities, focuses on theory, empirical research and the professional practices that have been the core of Sociology from the beginning of the discipline. The area of social and economic disparities involves innovative research methods combined with the most advanced theories of social and economic inequality, demography, labor and employment, migration and immigration, and group/organizational processes in society.
Agriculture, Environment, and Development
The Sociology of Agriculture, Environment, and Development is an area of study in the Department of Sociology that engages in research, teaching, and extension activities to help understand and solve problems related to agriculture and food, the environment and natural resources, development and social change, and rural and regional issues. The area is grounded in the disciplinary fields of rural sociology and development sociology, both of which share theory and methods with the larger discipline of sociology.
Criminology and Criminal Justice
The Sociology of Criminology and Criminal Justice is an area of study in the Department of Sociology that engages in teaching, research and outreach activities. The area incorporates a balance of practical and basic research in achieving the goal of helping stakeholders understand and manage the crime problem across the life span from youth to prisoners serving life sentences. The theme is grounded on the sociological traditions in criminology, but incorporates knowledge from many perspectives, heavily emphasizing interdisciplinary research and collaboration.