The Department of Sociology works closely with several interdisciplinary programs that offer a minor.  Several of our faculty have joint appointments and / or close working relationships with professors & professionals in these areas. Below is more information & contact information for these affiliated programs.

Gerontology
An interdisciplinary gerontology minor is offered at the undergraduate level, and a gerontology certificate is offered at the graduate level through the College of Arts and Sciences Continuing Education Division and the Center on Aging Studies. The minor is available to any undergraduate enrolled in a degree program. The gerontology certificate program can be completed either in conjunction with a degree program or as a free-standing credential. Students in such diverse fields as sociology, psychology, nursing, dental hygiene, public administration, law, pharmacy, and education have completed the certificate. As the number and proportion of older adults in the population increases, career opportunities in gerontology also increase. Eighteen (18) credit hours are required to complete the minor and the certificate.

For more information, contact Linda Breytspraak.

Family Studies
The College of Arts and Sciences offers a Family Studies Minor to educate students concerning the welfare of American families as well as aid human service professionals in empowering the families with whom they work. This interdisciplinary undergraduate academic program introduces participants to the sociological, psychological, and historical foundations of the family. The Family Studies Minor complements degree programs in such fields as sociology, psychology, nursing, criminal justice and criminology as well as the bachelor's degree in liberal arts (B.L.A.) program. Students completing this course of study have expanded career opportunities in related fields such as human services, health care, law, communications, program development, and academic research.

At least eighteen (18) credit hours or six (6) classes are required for the completion of this course of study, including nine (9) hours of core classes and nine (9) hours of electives. For more information, contact Dr. Deborah Smith.

Women's & Gender Studies Program
The minor in WGS examines women, girls, and gender throughout history and across cultures.  it draws on courese in sociology and anthropology, as well as a variety of other disciplines.  For more information, contact wgs@umkc.edu. or Dr. Kathy Krause, Directory.