Sociology majors study human behavior and interactions for individuals, groups, communities, organizations, cultures and societies.
A sociology major focuses on the study of humans. Students in this major explore the diversity of social behavior and interactions. They seek to understand the human perspective by investigating different groups and institutions, such as religious sects, families, or gender and race.
What Is a Sociology Major?
Sociology majors study society and human behavior. Sociology is a social science that analyzes human interactions, so students in this major study individuals, groups, communities, organizations, cultures and societies. They could look at interactions as small as two strangers at a coffee shop to something as large as globalization. Students not only focus on present-day interactions, but also cultures and societies throughout history.
Students are trained to ask important questions, conduct research and collect data for analysis. Sociology majors apply their conclusions to address issues they’ve identified and improve key social processes. This could include addressing family conflict, religious discrimination and health care inequity.
Common Coursework Sociology Majors Can Expect
Required coursework for sociology majors includes an introduction to basic principles of analysis. Students study societies throughout time and examine their direction, what went right and what went wrong. They take courses to help build their research techniques, develop methods of observation, and learn how to establish surveys and questionnaires.
Once students build a foundation of analysis and research methods, they apply those resources to study the population. Students in this major may take classes on race and ethnic relations, family interactions, drugs and crime in society, sex and gender, the aging population and retirement, and more. They could study the effects of media, the impact of religious beliefs or the difference between city and suburban living. Students then formulate thoughts and actions based on their observations. Some bachelor’s degree programs have an option to choose a focus, such as law, social services or world development.
How to Know if This Major Is the Right Fit for You
Sociology majors should be interested in human behavior. They examine human actions, interactions, beliefs, perspectives and values to better understand society, so students with a natural curiosity for the world around them are a good fit. This major works for critical thinkers, as students should objectively analyze behavior to understand humans and society. Students interested in social justice are also the right fit. Not only do sociology majors analyze what works within society, but they also seek to understand what doesn’t work. They identify and try to solve social issues confronting society, such as crime, poverty or inequality. Sociology majors also develop a solid foundation in writing and public speaking, so students who are creative and effective communicators will thrive.
What Can I Do With a Sociology Major?
Sociology majors are prepared for a wide variety of graduate programs and jobs. A common next step is to pursue a graduate degree. Options may include law school, business school, or a master’s degree in social work, education or sociology.
Sociology majors often pursue careers in social services, such as counselors, police officers, social workers and educators. Some pursue management roles that put their skills in human behavior analysis to practice, like jobs in human resources. In this role, they support employee and labor relations, personnel functions like hiring and training, and quality assurance. Other graduates launch a career in research.
Because sociology majors are up against other liberal arts majors when entering the workforce, some pursue roles that may not be directly relevant to their studies. But graduates with a sociology degree have an immediate advantage for their ability to navigate relationships and the globalizing world. Some pursue administrative roles, as a paralegal or data administrator, while others may land in communications, as a marketing or public relations professional.
