In addition to this, sociology students learn to look critically at ideas, to question assumptions and to evaluate information. Using a Sociology degree Sociology provides students with knowledge and skills that are relevant for a wide range of occupations such as social research, social policy formulation, law, social work, nursing, tertiary teaching, secondary teaching, medicine, personnel management, resource management, journalism, engineering, town planning, architecture etc. Any occupation that involves working with people is an occupation that would benefit from sociological insight. Where sociologists work Some sociologists work in government departments where they research such topics as the distribution of income and wealth. Others are involved in policy development and analysis, preparing discussion papers for Cabinet committees, drafting new legislation and analysing the pros and cons of different social policies.
Some sociologists conduct research, others teach in schools, polytechnics and universities.
Others work in local government. Some work for trade unions as researchers and organisers. Others are employed by private sector research organisations. If you find that you need help sorting out career or course options, please don't hesitate to ask for help. You may need to make an appointment through the departmental secretary.