Sociology investigates the relationships between social order and social change in three interconnected areas along the scale of individual to global, our personal lives, the communities we live in, and the world as a whole. When examining personal lives, sociologists study deviant behavior, family dynamics, and individuals racial, ethnic, gender, and sexual identities. At the community level, sociologists study poverty, prejudice and discrimination, education, corporate and business behavior, the criminal justice system, housing and homelessness, the health care system, and social movements. Finally, at the global level, they review human population dynamics, societal conflict, cultural diversity, socially-induced environmental change, globalization, and modernization.
Career Opportunities
Sociology students may find work in several areas public service. Take on roles in criminal justice as a parole counselor or rehabilitation specialist, enter the world of business as an HR or training representative, or find work as a social services case manager, advocate, or counselor. If students attend graduate school or complete certification programs, career options include work as lawyers, administrators, teachers, psychologists, therapists, librarians, professors, or researchers.