Career pathways and opportunities for Sociology majors
Considering a degree in Sociology? Here, you’ll find information on common career paths, types of employers that hire in the field, and the in-demand skills you’ll develop as a Sociology major. You’ll also learn steps you can take as a Sociology student to maximize career opportunities.
- how to use the “sociological imagination” to understand the world and their place in it
- about contemporary, critical Social Problems confronting society, including but not limited to crime, substance abuse, violence, poverty, homelessness, inequality, and globalization
- how to ask questions, develop explanations, and analyze data using classical and contemporary sociological theories
- Conduct and share research (orally and in writing)
- Define problems and research questions
- Understand and operate within the context of cultural and other diversities
- Conduct effective interviews and craft accurate and relevant descriptive narratives
- Review and critique narratives, policies, and group behaviors
- Design studies and appropriate instruments to find answers; make recommendations based on findings
- Prepare tables, graphs, fact sheets, and written reports summarizing research result
- Analyze both qualitative and quantitative data
- Environmental Sociology (including land use, recreation, and community planning, environmental and social justice advocacy/lobbying, and local, state, and federal environmental administration and management)
- Criminology/criminal justice (including advocacy, community organizing, and case management)
- Political organizing, campaign management and support
- Entry-level justice, counseling, and community service (including Courts advocacy, children and family advocacy services, anti-violence and prevention work, and victim advocacy)
- Law and legislation (e.g., defense attorneys, mediators, lobbying)
To best prepare to enter or advance in your career field of interest, prioritize gaining specialized knowledge and experiences most valued by employers. This might include internships, on- or off-campus jobs, research experience, a minor, or a certification.
- Pursue research experience by working on faculty projects through the Center for Social Science Research (CSSR), Institute for Immigration Research (IIR).
- Learn about grant writing, budgeting, and legal issues surrounding research in your field.
- Pursue relevant experiences like the Next System Fellows internships
- Complete Mason's Clearance Ready program to learn about the background investigation and security clearance process
- Join the Patriot Pre-Law Program if you hope to apply to law school