Sociology is the scientific study of groups of humans. So, Rural Sociology is the scientific study of groups of humans who live out in the country. At some schools, Rural Sociology is offered as a minor only and, at others, it is offered only to graduate students. Rural sociologists analyze the problems of rural people and their communities all over the world. It’s a good thing, too, because rural areas are pivotal in providing for national and international energy needs, national defense, agricultural production, and outdoor recreation. If you major in Sociology, you’ll learn about how groups, organizations, and societies are structured in rural communities. You’ll study crime and violence, sex and gender, families, health and illness, work and leisure, ethnic relations, religions and cultures, and social classes. You’ll also study the very fascinating ways in which perpetually increasing technology affects and transforms rural life.

Preparation

Sociology involves lots of writing, reading, analysis, and criticism. American history and English composition courses are probably the most similar subjects in high school. You’ll probably be required to take a college-level Statistics course, so some Math isn’t a bad idea, either. Knowledge of a foreign language is a big plus, too, because you will probably be required to take several foreign language classes as a Sociology major.