Sociology is an academic discipline involving the scientific study of social behavior, human groups, and social institutions. A major in sociology provides excellent background for careers in a wide range of fields as well as entry into postgraduate PhD and professional programs. The following are some of the sectors where sociology majors commonly find employment:
- Government, all levels
- Business & Corporate entities
- Non-Profit Organizations
- The Criminal Justice System
- Educational Institutions
- Healthcare Organizations
- Social Welfare Organizations
- Research Organizations and Institutes
Unlike applied majors like nursing and engineering with narrower career paths, sociology provides a greater breadth and range of possibilities. However, sociology majors are wise to take extra steps to expand the skills they acquire in the major, and to be prepared to articulate their skill set to potential employers who may not be familiar with the field. The following are among the competencies students acquire by majoring in sociology:
Research and data analysis capabilities: qualitative and quantitative analytic techniques on social topics in a variety of formats and from a variety of sources including interviews, survey data, observational research, and public databases.
Oral and Written communication skills: an ability to clearly and concisely communicate information orally and in writing to a range of audiences.
Knowledge of patterns of social and cultural diversity, including: class, racial/ethnic, gender, religious, and other types.
Awareness of social problems and their roots, including: poverty, crime, racial bias, gender inequality and similar issues, along with contributing factors and possible solutions.
Team building skills from working with fellow students and faculty on research and other projects.
Additional strengths of sociology graduates noted by employers in the 21st century include:
- An ability to contribute to innovation in the workplace
- A capacity to think critically and tackle complex problems
- An ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings
- An ability to work collaboratively with others to improve systems
Where CU Denver Sociology Graduates Work:
•University’s Counsel’s Office, University of Colorado
•Gateway Domestic Violence Services
•Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program
•Colorado Organization for Latina Opportunity and Reproductive Rights
•Human Resources, University of Colorado, Denver
Testimonial from a recent graduate, now enrolled in Law School:
As a non-traditional, career changing student, I needed a university and program which provides an excellent education that is also affordable and with flexibility in class scheduling. With a passion for social justice underlying my decision to pursue a career in the law, I determined that the sociology program at CU Denver met my needs. What I found were instructors who are not only accomplished in their field, but who are genuinely committed to the success of their students. Although I completed my degree primarily online, I always felt a part of the community. The education I received was absolutely top notch; it allowed me to accomplish all of my undergraduate goals, and helped me gain acceptance to several top-rated law schools.
~Tim Binns, South Texas College of Law
Sources:
- Sociology, 2018, Richard Schaefer, McGraw-Hill.
- 21st Century Careers With an Undergraduate Degree in Sociology, 2014, American Sociological Association.
- The Book of Majors, 2009, The College Board