The Department of Sociology cultivates skills for analyzing and elucidating an ever-changing contemporary society from three main perspectives.

First, the curriculum helps students to acquire a broad base of knowledge in order to better understand the issues of society, culture and thought, training them to interpret the changes of international society from a variety of perspectives. Secondly, students learn methodologies for analyzing multiple forms of data such as documents, statistics, and film, enabling deeper understanding of changes in communication, networks, and the political aspects of information in the advanced society that we live in. Thirdly, students analyze lifestyle developments in modern society and focus on issues regarding family, regions, and the workplace from both short-term and long-term points of view, thus acquiring a sound grasp of how people are choosing to live in this contemporary society of ours.

Our department also places an emphasis on teaching social research techniques (methodology for surveys, observation, interviewing, visual analysis, document searching, and field work). By planning and carrying out such research, students are able to capture a more accurate picture of society in its true form and thus enhance their ability to address research questions. Furthermore, the curriculum cultivates the practical ability to articulate and share one's research via theses, homepages, and works of film. The department participates in the Social Researcher Certification Program offered by the Japanese Association for Social Research (JASR). Those who complete the courses acknowledged by the JASR can apply for the certification.