Sociology is the study of social groups and human behavior. Sociologists examine how different institutions, political beliefs, cultural practices, and religions influence people. If you enjoy learning about humanity, then sociology may be the major for you.
Choosing the right major in college is a very overwhelming task. It can seem like the most difficult decision in the world. In this article, we examine some reasons why sociology is a good major to consider in 2023.
1. Sociology has a good scope
You can’t think about choosing a major without considering the job opportunities that await you after graduation. Well, things are looking good on that front. The median annual wage for sociologists is $92,910. The salary for sociologists varies depending on the industry, the level of experience, and the location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor, employment growth for sociologists is expected to be 5% from 2021 to 2031.
2. It’s not limited to a narrow field
Sociologists can work in a variety of different fields, including education, healthcare, social services, research, marketing, finance, legal system, government, and non-government sectors. Sociology offers a unique lens through which to view and understand the world around us. By studying sociology, you can gain a deeper understanding of the social forces that shape our lives and the world we live in.
Here are some specific careers that you can pursue with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology:
- Social Worker: Social workers help people in need, such as those who are struggling with poverty, addiction, or mental health issues.
- Counselor: Counselors provide support and guidance to individuals and groups. School counselors can guide students in making good career and life choices.
- Human resources specialist: Human resources specialists recruit, hire, and train employees.
- Business analyst: Business analysts analyze business problems and develop solutions.
- Researcher: Researchers research a variety of topics, such as social problems, public policy, and human behavior.
- Policy Maker: Sociologists often work in collaborating with the government or the non-profit sector to propose new policies for better governance. Sociologists are often at the forefront of efforts to promote social change and address social problems.
3. You can develop good research skills
People pursuing a sociology degree tend to develop very strong research and analytical skills, especially when preparing for their thesis.
Sociologists can use many different research methods.
- Survey research: Collecting data from many people through surveys.
- Interview research: Collecting data from a smaller number of people through interviews.
- Observational research: Collecting data by observing people in their natural settings.
- Historical research: Collecting data by examining historical documents and artifacts.
Sociologists are trained to gather, analyze, and interpret data, conduct research studies, and critically evaluate existing theories and social phenomena. These skills are transferable and can be applied in various career paths that require evidence-based decision-making and problem-solving.
4. You will develop good interpersonal skills
Sociology graduates often have excellent interpersonal skills, such as teamwork, collaboration, and empathy. Their curriculum emphasizes group work and exploring diverse cultures, fostering an understanding of diversity and social dynamics. With these abilities, they thrive in teamwork and adapt to diverse environments, making them highly sought-after professionals in various fields. Employers in almost any field appreciate candidates who can work well with others and understand the complexities of human behavior.
The concepts and theories studied in sociology are highly relevant to everyday life. By studying sociology, you can gain insights into your own behavior and relationships, as well as the behavior of those around you.
5. You can choose between a variety of specializations
Sociology is a broad field of study, and there are many different specializations within the discipline. Some of the most common specializations in sociology include:
- Criminology
- Demography
- Economic sociology
- Environmental sociology
- Family sociology
- Gender and sexuality studies
- Health sociology
- Organizations and management
- Political sociology
- Race and ethnicity studies
- Social change
- Social movements
- Urban sociology
6. Personal growth and development
Sociology can be a life-changing experience that promotes personal growth and self-reflection. It challenges your beliefs, introduces you to different viewpoints, and fosters critical thinking about social problems. This reflective aspect of sociology can help you develop personally and become more self-aware.
Sociology offers a unique perspective for understanding the complexities of human behavior, social interactions, and social structures. If you’re interested in exploring how individuals and groups are influenced by social forces and want to learn more about the intricacies of society, sociology can provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics.
As a student of sociology, you will often find yourself facing uncomfortable aspects of humanity, like violence, human rights violations, or climate change. The encounters will force you to self-reflect and look beyond any internal bias you may have about these issues. These can be big learning opportunities for you.
7. You can make a real difference in the world
Sociologists can leave a huge mark on the lives they touch. Whether they are working as social workers, counselors, or human resource professionals, they can be sure to use their skills to better people’s lives. For a person living on the poverty line, or a troubled teenager struggling in school, their social worker or counselor can make a big difference for them by looking out for them on an individual level. Sociologists are at the forefront of all the big decisions that can affect a community or a society. As policymakers and advisors to the stakeholders, they can hold a unique position of analyzing and understanding a society’s needs and recommending decisions for its betterment.
The Bottomline
In conclusion, sociology is a versatile and dynamic major that offers a wide range of career opportunities. It can be very rewarding and fulfilling, both emotionally and financially.
With its broad scope and interdisciplinary nature, sociology provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and social interactions. The skills developed through studying sociology, such as research and analytical skills, interpersonal skills, and critical thinking, are highly valued by employers in various fields.