About Us

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

Administration and Staff Contacts History of the Department Socioverse

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:

Spotlight on Recent Sociology Graduates

Mia Krishnamurthy ’22 published article on the Undergraduate Research Journal

Carolyn Chun’22 presented thesis on the Digital Divide during CURB Poster Session

'It's a joy to be in spaces where serious discussions can be inclusive'

'I gained perspective from my Arts & Sciences education'

Sociology News

Bezos’ Miami Move Is Not About Washington’s Taxes

11/03/2023

The billionaire is returning to a city where he went to high school and where his parents live — it’s as simple as that.

Community spotlight: 2023 First Generation Celebration Week

11/10/2023

To kick off the 2023 First Generation Celebration Week, Student and Campus Life gathered insights and advice from first-gen students, alumni and staff.

Wealth flight: should we care when the rich threaten to go into tax exile?

10/16/2023

High earners often warn they will up and move when taxes are raised, but in the long term they are better off staying put

With McCarthy out, ‘we are slouching towards political chaos’

10/06/2023

With our government stalled, our democracy is threatened like never before, says comparative sociologist Mabel Berezin.

Uyghur children in China’s genocide: A symposium

10/02/2023

Reported violations of ethnic minority children’s rights by the Chinese government will be explored in a symposium Oct. 27.

Sociologist honored with early career award

9/18/2023

The award is given by the American Sociological Association's Sociology of Religion Section.

2023's Happiest States in America

9/12/2023

Professor Sharron Sassler weighs in on what key ingredients make up a happy life.

Remotely Unfair

9/06/2023

Tulsa, Oklahoma, offers remote workers incentives to move. There are a few issues for existing residents.

More News

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.