Vassar broke ground several years ago with its innovative approach to introductory sociology, which begins with the the ideas of the classical sociological tradition applied to an understanding of contemporary social phenomena. Following up on this introduction students may then select from a broad range courses offered by the Department. Sociology at Vassar now offers students and faculty a means of conceptualizing the Department's curriculum in terms of six "clusters" – Theory, Inequality and Difference, Culture, Social Justice, Policy, and Globalization. In addition, many students integrate field work into their program of study and participate in a variety of projects in the local community and New York City, including work in prisons, courts, social service agencies, advertising agencies and urban planning departments. A senior thesis, written under the direction of a faculty member is also required.
