Welcome to the Department of Sociology
Welcome to the Department of Sociology at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Ours is a research and teaching environment that emphasizes the theme of SOCIAL JUSTICE. We conduct research and teach in the interest areas of:
- CRIMINOLOGY
- CRITICAL RACE AND ETHNIC STUDIES
- ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND GLOBALIZATION
- POLITICAL ECONOMY AND GLOBALIZATION
Students develop an understanding of both everyday social behavior and the structural factors that contribute to social injustices. In the seminar room and in the field, students also acquire the intellectual tools to identify and critically analyze social phenomena and trends, along with the methodological tools to conduct rigorous research.
In and out of the classroom we understand that how we conduct ourselves affects the learning and well-being of others. We are individual scholars as well as a scholarly community, and therefore – against polarizing currents – we invest in both our own and others’ capacities and insights.
In Memoriam
The Department of Sociology is saddened by the loss of Prof. Scott Frey who passed away in December. A prolific writer, research and teacher, Frey published four books and 59 journal articles, book chapters, and movie reviews across his career. He developed 35 courses, as well as served on 58 degree committees. And he traveled extensively in relation to his research on environmental sociology, including trips to China, Cambodia, Vietnam, Russian Federation, and Cuba. He will be missed by colleagues and students.