Resources for
Department of Sociology and Family Studies
Study the forces that shape individuals, families and communities, and graduate prepared to be an agent of renewal in a world that desperately needs one.
Ethos
In Person
Grounded in Union’s four core values, the Criminal Justice major pairs an interdisciplinary curriculum with a strong ethical foundation. Students gain practical knowledge of the criminal justice system and its institutions, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice administration, and related fields.
In Person
The Family Studies program takes an interdisciplinary look at families across the lifespan, building expertise in family behavior, policy, communication, and development for careers in social services, marriage and family therapy, ministry, and family advocacy.
In Person
From crime scene to courtroom, the Forensic Science major offers interdisciplinary training in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting evidence. Students build expertise across both the scientific and investigative sides of forensic work, opening doors to careers in law enforcement, crime laboratories, legal systems, and forensic research.
In Person
What holds a society together, and what breaks it apart? Sociology at Union examines human relationships, social institutions and cultural norms through a Christ-centered lens, equipping students to think critically about the world through a biblical worldview and to love and serve their neighbors well. Graduates pursue careers in social… Read More
Union's sociology and family studies faculty are scholars and people of faith who bring both academic depth and genuine passion for human flourishing into every classroom. With small class sizes, they invest personally in every student, developing social thinkers who understand the world analytically and engage it faithfully, prepared for careers and graduate programs in counseling, social work, family ministry, and human services.
David Keith Bates
Chair and Professor of History; Interim Department Chair, Sociology; and Interim Director for Curriculum and Program Development
David Keith Bates
Chair and Professor of History; Interim Department Chair, Sociology; and Interim Director for Curriculum and Program Development
Johnny K. Jines
Adjunct Instructor in Criminal Justice and Sociology
Johnny K. Jines
Adjunct Instructor in Criminal Justice and Sociology
Kayla Kemp
Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology; Interim Discipline Coordinator, Sociology; Assistant Director of Debate
Kayla Kemp
Visiting Assistant Professor of Sociology; Interim Discipline Coordinator, Sociology; Assistant Director of Debate
Eric Warren
Adjunct Instructor in Forensic Science
Eric Warren
Adjunct Instructor in Forensic Science
The goal of the Department of Sociology and Family Studies’ Discipline Specific Honors (DSH) track is to help students to produce a high-quality research paper or community project that is the culmination of their academic coursework and interests.
