With this broad foundation, the question remains: What can you do with a sociology degree? What are the careers in Sociology? Given the expansive scope of the discipline, students frequently have the freedom to tailor their sociology curriculum, particularly beyond the initial year of study, enabling them to specialize in particular areas. Keep in mind that the area of specialization you choose during your sociology degree will not only help you specialize in a specific area, but may also make you more employable within your professional field. For example, specializing in the Crime and Punishment specialization may be helpful in pursuing a career in sociology in the rehabilitation field.
What is Sociology
Sociology is a social science that helps us understand how society works. It encompasses a vast array of sub-disciplines and interdisciplinary fields, including but not limited to economic sociology, historical sociology, gender and sexuality studies, social psychology, stratification, cultural sociology, and demography. Moreover, American universities often feature sociology courses tailored to American contexts, such as women’s studies, LGBTQ+ studies, African American studies, Latinx studies, and Asian American studies.
Basic criteria to apply for a Sociology degree
Prospective sociology majors should possess robust reading and writing abilities, as these are highly beneficial for the application process. Moreover, for undergraduate sociology applicants, it’s advisable to consider taking SAT2 or AP subject tests like human geography, history, government, and society, as they can enhance the strength of your application.
Different types of careers in Sociology
Careers in Sociology: Counseling and Therapy
Studying sociology can lead to careers in counseling and therapy, offering opportunities to work closely with individuals, couples, or groups to address various issues like substance abuse, relationship conflicts, and mental health concerns. While psychology is a common path, counselors and therapists can emerge from diverse backgrounds. Essential skills include interpersonal communication, critical thinking, and empathetic understanding. Professional qualifications, such as medical degrees, may be necessary for roles in mental health. Counseling and therapy roles require sensitivity, non-judgmental support, and effective dialogue to help clients navigate challenges and improve their well-being.
Careers in Sociology: Education
A sociology degree offers opportunities in education at various levels. For primary and secondary education, it provides insight into societal education dynamics, child development, and classroom management. However, teaching qualifications are typically necessary, requiring about a year of additional study. In higher education, postgraduate degrees like master’s or PhDs are often essential. These qualifications enable roles such as lecturer, tutor, or researcher, focusing on specialized areas within teaching and research. Many academics combine these roles, prioritizing research and publication in academic journals.
Careers in Sociology: Public Service
Sociology graduates find diverse career paths in public services, addressing community development issues. Roles encompass social welfare, public health, criminal justice, probation, rehabilitation, and housing services. Social researchers monitor sectoral developments. Required skills include analytical thinking, cross-cultural understanding, information organization, legal knowledge, and interpersonal proficiency. Job demands vary, but employers value critical thinking, effective communication, and knowledge of relevant laws and regulations.
Careers in Sociology: Politics, Activism and Philanthropy
Sociology careers in politics, activism, and philanthropy offer avenues for societal change and advocacy. In politics, sociologists analyze social issues, inform policy, and may hold positions in advisory roles or elected offices. Activism allows sociologists to engage directly in grassroots movements, advocating for social justice and policy reform. In philanthropy, they contribute to charitable organizations, addressing systemic inequalities and supporting marginalized communities. These roles require skills in research, analysis, communication, and a deep understanding of social dynamics. Whether influencing policy, mobilizing communities, or driving change through philanthropy, sociology professionals play a crucial role in shaping a more equitable society.
Universities that offer Sociology degree
Harvard University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (AB) in Sociology
The sociology department at Harvard University provides an in-depth examination of social structures, organizations, and behaviors. In addition to engaging in demanding courses, students have access to esteemed faculty members and research opportunities.
SAT: 1470-1570 (25th-75th percentile)
ACT: 33-35 (25th-75th percentile)
University of Cambridge
Degree: BA (Hons) in Sociology
A thorough understanding of sociological theories, techniques, and empirical research is offered by Cambridge’s sociology curriculum. Students use interdisciplinary ways to investigate a range of social issues and phenomena.
Stanford University
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology
The sociology curriculum at Stanford places equal emphasis on theoretical knowledge and useful research techniques. There are chances for individual research projects, internships, and fieldwork for students.
SAT: 1440-1570 (25th-75th percentile)
ACT: 32-35 (25th-75th percentile)
University of Chicago
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology
The sociology program at UChicago provides a thorough curriculum with an emphasis on substantive themes like race, gender, and social movements as well as sociological theory and research methodologies. Students work on their own autonomous research projects.
SAT: 1500-1570 (25th-75th percentile)
ACT: 34-35 (25th-75th percentile)
University of California, Los Angeles
Degree: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology
The sociology department at UCLA provides a broad curriculum that covers a range of sociological subjects, such as globalization, culture, and social stratification. Internships and research opportunities are available to students.
SAT: 1330-1530 (25th-75th percentile)
ACT: 31-35 (25th-75th percentile)
Next, you may be interested to explore one of our sociology students’ case study.
