Since its establishment in 1998, the Sociology Program has quickly emerged into a dynamic and innovative locus of study and research. The Program currently provides students with a solid foundation in sociological research and theory and prepares graduates for work in a variety of academic and professional fields. Of the three departments in Kyrgyzstan that offer a degree in sociology, the Sociology Program at AUCA is the only one that offers western-style professionalism and instruction and encourages critical thinking among its students.