The department’s focus on basic science is complemented by a deep commitment to informing public and educational policy, particularly on issues related to gender and racial inequality, income inequality, poverty, drug use, economic development, school funding, organizational practices and race and ethnicity.
The department also has close ties with the many other research centers on campus. Interdisciplinary research touches on subjects such as inequality, economics, social sciences, nonlinear systems, politics and social dynamics.
Department Resources
Alumni Spotlight: Catherine Zhang ’22
Learning about sociology was fascinating, said Catherine Zhang ‘22, about her experience delving into subjects like inequality and how institutions shape social phenomena.
During her time at Cornell, she appreciated learning under the brilliant faculty members in the department and finding support in her advisor Professor Bischoff.
Learn more about Catherine's journey and her future endeavor joining pioneering technologist program Schmidt Futures.
Explore more profiles of recent sociology majors below:
Sociology News
Is 'millionaire migration' really a thing? Lessons from states that already tax the rich
Seattle’s NPR station hosts Professor Cristobal Young to discuss taxing high-income individuals and its implications for Washington State and beyond.
If you Tax Them, Will They Leave?
A California wealth-tax proposal makes a high-stakes bet on billionaire psychology.
Cornell experts on Trump Christ image, Catholic–evangelical tensions
Faculty experts from Cornell's College of Arts and Sciences analyze how Donald Trump’s AI-generated Christ image and attacks on Pope Leo have escalated Vatican tensions and drawn criticism from Catholics and evangelicals. The controversy reveals fractures linking faith, politics, and conservative Christian identity.
Lila Schwab | Undergrad Student Spotlight
Lila Schwab is a senior completing a double major in Sociology and Government. She did research last summer with the European Center for Not-for-Profit Law, which recently culminated in a Fellowship Publication with ECNL.
‘Built by alumni, sustained by community, driven by purpose’
An anniversary gala will mark the Cornell Black Alumni Association’s 50th anniversary April 24-26 in Washington, D.C. Hosted by alumni of Cornell University, the event honors leading alumni and launches a $1.5 million legacy fund.
Admitted Class of 2030 seeks real-world impact
Cornell admits the Class of 2030 emphasizing real-world impact, enrolling 5,776 students from 102 countries.
At Cornell University, the diverse cohort reflects the land-grant mission and applied learning goals across multiple colleges.
Historic and swift: Mullally’s rise to Archbishop of Canterbury
Sarah Mullally’s historic installation as the first woman Archbishop of Canterbury highlights rapid institutional change within Anglicanism. Cornell University sociologist Landon Schnabel emphasizes how incremental reforms built support for her swift rise.
Your March 2026 reads
This month’s featured titles by A&S alumni and faculty include an evolutionary look at dating, a Christian work on inner peace and a queer love story.
Giving to the Department of Sociology
Unrestricted gifts, no matter what the amount, help support every facet of the Cornell Sociology Department. Gifts may also be designated to support a specific area of the the department's activities.
You can make a gift online at Cornell's Alumni, Parents & Friends page here.