Sociology Major - Preparation for Careers

Students who graduate with a B.A. or B.S. in sociology and enter the job market directly will find themselves competing with other liberal arts students, but with an advantage--knowledge of key social factors and a firm grasp on research design and methods. This advantage of the B.A. sociology program provides breadth and the potential for adaptability.

Although few occupations include "sociologist" in their title at the bachelor's level, the sociological perspective is excellent preparation for a wide variety of occupations. You should look for an entry-level job, gain experience through internships, and watch for opportunities of specialized training or advanced education.

If you are approaching graduation (or have recently graduated) and are seeking a job in the business world, focus on general areas of interest that motivate you. Sociology majors who are interested in organizational theory gravitate toward organizational planning, development, and training. Those who study the sociology of work and occupations may pursue careers in human resources management (personnel) and industrial relations. Students who especially enjoy research design, statistics, and data analysis seek positions in marketing, public relations, and organizational research. Courses in economic and political sociology, cultural diversity, racial and ethnic relations, and social conflict can lead to positions in international business.

Regardless of your career path, the breadth of your preparation as a liberal arts major is very important.

Suggested courses include:

Core courses

• Introductory Sociology
• Social Problems
• Social Psychology
• Social Statistics
• Research Methods

More specialized sociology courses

• Sociology of Education
• Sociology of Medicine
• Sociology of Aging
• Sociology of Race Relations/Cultural Diversity
• Sociology of Sex and Gender
• Sociology of Politics
• Sociology Internship

Supplementary courses

• Labor (or Industrial) Relations
• Industrial Psychology
• Personnel Management
• Public Speaking
• Business and Technical Writing

With this spectrum of courses, sociology majors successfully compete for entry level position in the private sector. You may wish to combine a major in sociology with a major in computer science, business management, or pre-law in order to broaden the impact of your degree.

Corporate interviewers are looking for applicants who display purpose and commitment to their future occupation. This does not mean that B.A. graduates will be hired as industrial sociologists, but that applicants may be considered for junior positions in corporate research, human resources, management, sales, or public relations. 

Interviewers will seek to determine if applicants can easily adapt to organizational life in the private sector. In particular, this means the ability to work well with others as part of a team. Employers value graduates who have a keen understanding of the impact of cultural, racial, and gender diversity in the workplace, and who comprehend the global nature of business and industry. 

During the job search, B.A./B.S. sociology graduates should stress their work and internship experience, analytical skills, oral and written communication skills, computer literacy, and knowledge of statistics and research design. 

Those who are determined to succeed will be at an advantage. Ambition, drive, and competition are positive words in the world of business and organizations.

Tips for the job search...

Acquire a broad educational background 
Gain experience through jobs, internships, and volunteer work 
Obtain skills in public speaking, writing, and computer applications 
Focus on an area that interests you (for example., human resources, industrial relations, management, marketing, public relations, or sales) and learn as much as you can before applying for positions.

What do Sociology graduates From Mansfield University do? They are

• Directors and Administrators at ICF at Human Service Providers
• Customer service supervisors
• Training supervisors
• Service associates for insurance company
• Construction work and landscaping
• Child care counselors
• Independent living coordinators
• County caseworkers
• English teachers in Japan
• Field Techs
• Community College instructors of Sociology
• Substitute Teachers

For more help on careers in sociology, click here.