The establishment of the Department of Sociology coincided with the inauguration of the University of Sharjah in 1997. Originally a department in the College of Science, it has been part of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences since the academic year 2009/2010. The Department's vision is to provide quality education that is compatible with local, regional and international standards. In our programs, students acquire the scientific knowledge and technical skills necessary to understand social issues in their community and effectively contribute to their resolution.
Over the past ten years, the department has undergone a steady growth, which is reflected in the increasing number of faculty members and students, and the establishment of department branches in Khorfakkan and Al Dhaid. Currently, it is the largest department in the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, accounting for 40% of its student population. In the academic year 2007/08, the number of female students was estimated to be 272; today there are 685 male and female students. The number of master's students when our M.A. Applied Sociology was first offered in 2008/2009 was 18, and at present, 86 students are enrolled in this program. The department has also seen a significant rise in the number of doctoral students from 15 when the program was launched to 45. Accordingly, the number of faculty members increased from 7 in 2007/08, and to 21.
It should be noted that the specialization of sociology was limited to female students. This is no longer the case, with registration in our programs now open to all students and in all university branches. The department is also seeking to offer two new programs in the coming year: master's and doctor’s degrees in crime and criminal justice.
The Department of Sociology boasts a host of highly competent and experienced faculty with diverse research interests , education and community service. Our faculty enjoy a harmonious team spirit that encourages students to form a solid knowledge base and acquire high-quality technical skills that enable them to serve the community in various fields.
