SOCIOLOGY

Sociology is the study of human society and social behavior.   Sociologists exam groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, political, religious, and business organizations.   Sometimes, sociologists study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of the group on individual members.   Earning a Bachelors Degree in Sociology allows individuals access to positions in applied work and research in the field.   However, recipients of Sociology degrees are eligible for nearly any entry level position in the world of work.   Earning graduate degrees in Sociology allows professionals access to teaching, research, and practice, or any combination of the three.

Job Options

Market Research Analyst
Public Relations Specialist
Urban/Regional Planner
Admissions Counselor
Peace Corps/VISTA Worker
Community Service Agency Worker
Motivational Researcher
Criminologist
Researcher
Rehabilitation Counselor
School Counselor
Social Worker
Personnel Interviewer
Personnel Manager
Fundraiser/Development Officer
Career Counselor
Public Opinion Interviewer

Industries and Organizations that
Employ Professionals in Sociology

Community Service Agencies
Advocacy Groups
Local, State, and Federal Government
Non-profit Organizations
Religiously-affiliated Service Organizations
Private Foundations
Adoption and Child Care Agencies
Nursing Homes and Retirement Communities
Hospitals
Wellness Centers
Correctional Institutions
Court Systems
Law Enforcement Agencies
Primary and Secondary Schools
Colleges and Universities
Advertising and Marketing Firms
Consulting Organizations
Information Brokers
Newspapers, Magazines, and News Agencies
Public Opinion Research Polls
Waste Management Firms
Hetitleh Agencies
Research Institutes
Environmental Protection Agency
Housing and Urban Development
Drug Enforcement Administration
Veteran's Administration
National Institutes of Hetitleh
National Institute of Aging

For more information on these jobs and workplaces, visit your
Career Counselor.

Skills and Talents Required

There are some basic qualities necessary for Sociology students to be successful in their studies; the following are some examples:

Curiosity
Organization
Leadership abilities
Writing skills
Capacity for teamwork
Problem solving
Critical thinking
Analytical skills

Certainly, throughout the course of undergraduate study, the aforementioned talents and skills will be professionally honed.   Many other skills will also be added to the Sociology major's repertoire as they work toward their Bachelors Degree, for example:

Data collection
Data analysis and interpretation
Knowledge of quantitative research methods
Knowledge of qualitative research methods
Statistical skills
Insight into group dynamics
Conflict resolution skills
Knowledge of social structures and change
Cross-cultural understanding
Planning and organizational skills
Knowledge of how to conduct ethical research
Understanding of value systems
Ability to clearly present and defend a position
Maintaining appropriate project records

Strategies—
What Should I Do to Prepare

Meet with your Career Counselor.
Explore the benefits of gaining experience through the Coop program.
Conduct informational interviews with Professionals working in fields that interest you.
Develop relationships with professors with whom you share similar interests.
Offer to assist professors with their research.
Seek leadership opportunities in student organizations.
Gain volunteer experience in fields that interest you.
Plan on earning a graduate degree for advancement and promotion.

Sociology Websites

American Sociological Association
http://www.asanet.org/index.ww

International Sociological Association
http://www.ucm.es/info/isa/

Society for Applied Sociology
http://www.appliedsoc.org/

SocioWeb
http://www.socioweb.com/

Stop by the Office of Career Services
and see your career counselor
Pratt 5th Floor