“To understand people, a sociologist needs to see past the walls, the misconceptions, to bypass established boundaries and establish new insights. Cultural similarities and differences are variations of the same human search for meaning. Through immersion in different places and different ways, study abroad offers the greatest range of opportunities to understand people and their culture,—all essential to a sociology major and minor, to careers in a global economy, and to life in a technological age. Expanding our intellect, our range of emotions, our recognition of a common humanity amidst a myriad of expressions, this is sociology, and this is study abroad."

-  Dr. George Lundskow, Department Chair of Sociology

Sociology Study Abroad Programs

By studying abroad, sociology students will gain a global outlook. Students will be able to integrate the cultural diversity they experience abroad into their profession by developing  international and comparative perspectives on social problems, race, and social relations. From working at a refugee camp community center in Jordan to a malnourished infants clinic in Chile, there’s a program for you!

Study abroad opens the world to you. Imagine studying the Scandinavian approach to welfare in Norway, exploring multicultural London, or working with the youth of Jamaica. These experiences and more are available to you through the many study abroad programs offered through the Padnos International Center!

Academic Advice

• Department input requested
• Overseas courses should have significant sociological content, but don’t have to be listed under sociology.
• Consider fulfilling your General Education Issues requirement abroad. Find out how!

Restrictions

• Students may NOT take SOC 495 Capstone abroad. 
• Courses will be approved on a case to case basis through the course equivalency process.

Keep in Mind

• Once you have selected a program, be sure to meet with your adviser at least three months prior to departing for your program.
• Be sure to explore both GVSU and external options by browsing the Program Suggestions below. Students are not limited to GVSU study abroad programs.
• There are several opportunities to intern and or volunteer while abroad.
• Students are also able to fulfill General Education requirements abroad, including their General Education Issues requirement.

To determine the GVSU course equivalencies for courses taken abroad, please view the “How to Request Course Equivalencies” page. For more information email Department Contact below.

George Lundskow

[email protected]

2172d Au Sable Hall