Sophie Casadonte, Class of 2019
Major: Sociology

“NAU Sociology Program has made my time here so incredible. The teachers are what makes this program work so well. They are friendly and helpful while also being so knowledgeable, making classes fun yet educational. My time spent in the program has reinvigorated my love for education and made classes fun once again. I love this program and all that it offers students!”

Matthew Lopez, Class of 2019

Major: Sociology

“NAU Sociology program has deepened my perspective of how society functions. Being a part of Dr. Doug Degher’s courses has really motivated me to dive into sociology. Dr. Degher is one of the many phenomenal sociology instructors that have helped me think critically about our society. In addition, I was able to practice what I learned by conducting my own research project in the Research Methods course I took with Dr. James Bowie.”

Taylor McKinney, Class of 2021

Major: Sociology

“My sociological lens is in full scope! Being a Sociology major has opened my eyes to society in a way I did not know was possible thanks to the professors in this department . With my B.S. degree in Sociology I plan to attend graduate school and receive a Ph.D. in Sociology so I can be a professor.  My goal is to inspire future sociologists just like my professors have done for me.”

“Getting my MA in Applied Sociology through NAU not only opened doors for me career-wise, but offered a supportive environment to grow and expand my worldview and academic skills. The professors were incredibly supportive throughout the program and my cohort was phenomenal and diverse! I will always look back at my time at NAU with a deep sense of pride in my accomplishments and hold warm memories of the people and experiences there.” —Teri, Social Worker, Child and Family Services

“This program prepared me for community work. The skills and theories covered are applicable to any organization or situation and make me a valuable member of society.”—Community leader

“The seminars are tailored and practically oriented to preparing students for the job market.” —Gideon, Department of Child Safety Investigative Specialist

“The graduate program is made up of a close knit group of people from various backgrounds that support one another and challenge each other to see the world through different experiences. A very attentive faculty that knows how to blend work, education, leisure and camaraderie. There is never a dull topic and faculty teem with energy and joy for the subject.”—Devin, Community College Instructor

“The experience and skills that I gained from my time in the Applied Sociology M.A. program have been instrumental in charting my career path. My coursework and internship helped me develop the tools needed to engage in both systems change work and direct service to others. Since graduating, I have found a passion working with people experiencing domestic violence and homelessness. In my career, I worked to develop a coordinated response in our community to domestic violence victims experiencing homelessness. Through this work, we’ve enhanced housing opportunities for victims of domestic violence, including creating a new supportive housing program specifically for victims of abuse – the first of its kind in our town.”—Kelli, director of a supportive housing program for victims of domestic violence

“What I value most is that the faculty were always available to give guidance and listen to my concerns regarding my studies.” —Sinah, Associate researcher in the climate change division of a Social Research Lab

“I’m grateful for the individualized support I received from a number of dedicated faculty.”
—PhD student and instructor at University of South Florida

“The program planning and evaluation focus of the graduate program really prepared me to do strategic planning, and learn how to make data driven decisions.”—Michelle Griffitts Fowler, Research Specialist II at Riverside County Behavioral Health Department in California

Matthew King, Class of 2019
M.A. in Applied Sociology student

“I loved NAU so much in my undergrad that I decided to get my Master’s here as well. NAU has changed my life for the better in so many ways. It is because of NAU that I am the person I am today. I could not have imagined going anywhere else; the faculty are amazing and supportive as well as wanting to see me grow not only as a scholar but also as a human being.”

Horizon Worden, Class of 2019

M.A. in Applied Sociology student

“As a sociology graduate student, I have the unique opportunity to really take responsibility for my education. In sociology, there is always something new to study, and it is ever changing. Upon the completion of my Master’s degree, I plan to continue my education in a Ph.D. program. No matter what I want to do long term, sociology provides an excellent foundation.”

Erin Whitesitt, Class of 2015
M.A. in Applied Sociology graduate

“Earning an M.A. in Applied Sociology from NAU was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. The university’s beautiful location and excellent reputation attracts qualified and engaged faculty who make the study of sociology come to life. Now I can share that knowledge with my own students.”

Abou Toure, Class of 2013

M.A. in Applied Sociology graduate

“I have a better understanding of the world and its people because of the Sociology graduate program at NAU. My training as a sociologist gave me the confidence and skills to be great at my job in international education.”