Sociology Graduate Programs

Sociology Graduate Programs and Curriculum

A master’s degree in sociology or a Ph.D. in sociology will help students strengthen their understanding of social events and trends by utilizing analytical skills to interpret events. Graduate degrees in sociology prepare graduates for a variety of occupations including policy and market analysts, research positions, administrative positions, writers, and, if earning a PhD., college and university teaching positions.

Along with a keen interest in human society, sociologists also often share the following qualities:

• Intellectual curiosity
• Creative thinking
• Logical
• Methodical
• General interest in current societal trends
• Excellent communication skills
• Good writing skills
• Objectivity
• Cultural and demographic sensitivity and knowledge

Many sociology graduate programs culminate in an internship and thesis research project.

A background in sociology is helpful though not always necessary. Previous coursework in social sciences, research methods, and statistics is recommended.

Sociology Career Paths

Sociologist often find work as researchers, administrators, and counselors in a variety of industries, including but not limited to, science research and development, social advocacy, and governmental organizations. In addition, many other fields are beginning to add sociology as part of their comprehensive research. The skills that sociologists acquire can be applied to a number of different occupations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports some people with a Ph.D. degree in sociology will find opportunities as university faculty rather than as applied sociologists. In fact, they report that 37 percent teach in colleges and universities and in secondary and elementary schools.

Sociology Future Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, people seeking sociologist positions may face competition for jobs, and those with higher educational attainment will have the best prospects. Many jobs in policy, research or marketing are not advertised exclusively as sociologist positions. Since a variety of skills and knowledge are needed, many sociologists compete for jobs with others such as anthropologists and archaeologists, geographers, historians, market and survey researchers, psychologists, engineers and statisticians. By 2018, the BLS expects employment for sociologist to grow by 22 percent and is projected to be best for those with a graduate degree in sociology.