In order to know if a sociology degree is right for you, it’s necessary to review your personal interests and establish your career aspirations. Sociology students examine historical trends in human behavior to understand things like the impact of race, gender and class relations around the globe. A number of world famous figures graduated with a degree in sociology, including the comedian Robin Williams, former president Ronald Reagan and the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. Sociology students will share the common interests and professional qualities described below.
Personal Interests
Sociology students are usually interested in learning statistical reasoning because this is the foundation of most sociology research. Sociology students enjoy complex and extensive research activities and will have to gain experience in qualitative and quantitative research methods. They are curious about humanity and driven to explore the rationale behind human behaviors and social patterns.
Sociology students are comfortable having difficult discussions about sensitive topics like discrimination, gender identity and socio-economic status. Sociologists are interested in the collective dynamics and behaviors of humanity as a whole, so they place a high value on diversity. They tend to be passionate advocates who believe in supporting great causes, like local charities, homeless shelters and anti-bullying campaigns.
Professional Skills
Sociology students have strong management, organizational and interpersonal communication skills. They are naturally observant and aware of their surroundings. This is important because observation of the world is the first step to constructing unanswered questions that can be tested by sociological research and investigation. Sociology students tend to be confident and outgoing, so they can easily understand the emotions of others and discuss personal problems with strangers.
Sociologists can objectively look at difficult or depressing social problems and motivate people to be optimistic about applying research to make positive changes. Sociologists are creative problem-solvers who can think about social questions and identify potential solutions. Sociology students must have the ability to follow ethical guidelines to maintain accuracy and avoid the exploitation of subjects.
Career Spotlight
Social workers who are interested in advocacy, public policy and community programs can major in sociology. While most Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) programs prepare students for generalist duties in the social work profession, some social workers focus on promoting and enhancing community well-being. They usually pay particular attention to the needs and empowerment of those who are oppressed and vulnerable, such as poor or immigrant populations.
A sociology degree won’t prepare these students to become licensed social workers through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), but it will teach them the core social work values of service, dignity, integrity, human rights and social justice. These graduates will use their sociology training to tackle serious local issues, foster relationships with regional organizations and sustain safe and positive environments for all persons.
A sociology degree will also prepare graduates for work in the fields of politics, public relations, criminal justice, youth services, mental health, law enforcement, adoption services, religious organizations and non-profit management. If you want to know if a sociology degree is right for you, learn more about potential careers at the American Sociological Association’s website.
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Best Top 10 Online Sociology Degree Programs
