What you can do with a degree in Sociology?
What Sociologists do
Sociologists are employed in many different areas. Some work in schools or colleges where they research and teach. Others work in government positions. Businesses and unions employ sociologists because of their excellent writing, communication, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Non-profits often call on sociologists to help research problems and find solutions.
Sociologists study diverse fields: they can research any topic, so you will find them exploring such diverse issues as business, immigration, the environment, racial and religious discrimination, disabilities, social psychology, and health care reform.
Employment Outcomes
A degree in Sociology means you have a lot of skills that employers want. A major in Sociology means that you will have skills in the following areas:
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Report writing
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Data collection and analysis
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Evaluating research
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Using statistical software
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Working with a diverse group of people
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Identifying ethical issues in research
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Delivering presentations
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Around 75% of people with a Bachelors Degree in Sociology work in social services, administrative support, management, teaching, librarianship, research, or marketing.
Students who intend to go into the workforce directly after graduation usually participate in activities outside the classroom that help improve their employability.
When they compete for jobs with graduates from other social sciences of liberal studies, Sociology majors often emphasize their statistical skills, their ability to understand complex social dynamics and diversity, and their abilities in research design and methods.
Many students use a Bachelors Degree in Sociology as a stepping stone to a graduate degree. These undergraduates often benefit from getting to know faculty, working on research projects, getting involved in the Honors Society, and looking for opportunities to present at conferences or to publish.
Comments from our graduates
“Having a background in sociology has proven invaluable for me. It allows me to better understand human behavior and how to interact with others. Like most jobs, mine requires interaction with people from diverse backgrounds; understanding sociological perspectives has aided me in working more efficiently with others. The concepts and skills I’ve learned from studying sociology are transferable to any job I will ever have. Changing my major to sociology was one of the best decisions I’ve made.” (Michelle, who now works as an Assistant Director at a university in Rhode Island).
“I first attended UT to receive a B.S.W., then I decided to get a Master’s degree in Sociology at UT. I am now pursuing a Ph.D. in Sociology at Case Western Reserve University. Sociology has helped me to hone both my research and critical thinking skills. The program at UT was instrumental in preparing me for my future career, and for that I am very grateful.” (Holly, who is now completing her Ph.D. in Sociology).
“The sociology program was a great experience for several reasons. It gave me a new perspective on the organizations and people around me. It was a great basis for my Master’s program providing me with critical thinking, observational skills, and the ability to work with theory. The instructors were challenging and thought provoking. I had the opportunity to present a paper at the American Sociological Association in San Francisco, California. It was all an experience I will never forget!” (Samantha, who works at Owens Community College as a Manager and is now doing a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership).
"When I came to the University of Toledo, I knew that I wanted to pursue a career as an attorney. With that in mind, I chose to major in sociology for a myriad of reasons. First, and foremost, sociology was a fascinating subject to me. I was always aware of social inequality in our culture, but I wanted to develop a perspective on why it existed and what could be done to achieve social change and justice for those underprivileged in our society. Additionally, I wanted to develop my critical thinking, research skills and writing ability. After successfully becoming an attorney, I can now definitively say that Sociology, and Sociology at the University of Toledo in particular, provided a perfect avenue to do all of these things. The above skills, and the added bonus of enhancing my oral communication abilities in class discussion groups, allowed me to excel in law school and obtain a job immediately out of school. Additionally, I continue to use all of the tools I obtained at UT in my daily life while practicing law. I would highly recommend Sociology as a major for anyone, as the skills learned in those courses can easily translate to any career path." (Dustin, now a lawyer).
Our Department
Our Department includes scholars who are known internationally for their work but who also are making a difference in the local community.
Some of our department’s strengths include:
- The sociology of inequality and diversity,
- Global and urban societies;
- Sustainability; and
- Social psychology
Students receive an excellent education learning from our faculty. Department members have won teaching awards such as Master Teacher and Teacher of the Year.
Exciting Opportunities
Students in our Department have been exposed to wonderful opportunities for academic and personal growth including:
- Presenting at local and national conferences;
- Presenting their work to State legislators;
- Independent studies with faculty;
- Working with faculty on their research;
- Being mentored by faculty;
- Internships in community agencies;
- Assistance with finding the right career after graduation; and
- Assistance with Graduate School.
For More Information, contact:
Dwight Haase, Sociology Undergraduate Advisor, Department Chair
E-Mail: dwight.haase@utoledo.edu
Phone: 419.530.5574
Barbara Coventry, Sociology Graduate Advisor
E-Mail: karie.peralta@utoledo.edu
Phone: 419.530.4659
Download a .pdf document of this information here.