There are two required research methods courses in the SOAN major. Quantitative research methods, SOAN 371, is offered in the fall and is taught by a sociologist. Qualitative research methods, SOAN 373, is offered in the spring and taught by an anthropologist. Taking the two courses offers majors a chance to do hands-on research using different methodological tools. By doing the research, students gain a better sense of how to produce and analyze social science research, which is one of the key learning outcomes of the major.
Students have presented their research to the St. Olaf community, at regional and national conferences, and to interested local organizations. For a sense of the broad range of topics researched, browse through the projects done by previous years of SOAN majors.