Studying sociology contributes to an objective understanding of both personal and social relationships. Sociologists also know how to create, interpret and analyze large data sets that describe various social processes such as the U.S. Census and several types of crime statistics.

Sociology provides students with basic skills that can be applied in a variety of work environments. Many market researchers, public relations directors and recreation workers have sociological training. Students obtaining the bachelor’s degree in sociology or a strong minor in the field are often employed in jobs related to the understanding of human social behavior.

New fields of opportunities are continually being developed. Studies indicate that there are at least half a dozen major job categories where the majority of graduates with sociological training find employment including:

• Human services - children and families work, recreation, community work, public administration and environmental planning;
• Criminology - police service, juvenile and adult corrections and service to the courts;
• Business and commerce - sales, marketing, market research, personnel and production;
• Education - teaching, educational research and administration;
• Research and data processing -public and private research positions, computer programming and systems analysis; and
• Communications - journalism, public relations and media research.

The department encourages students to participate in internship experiences to develop skills and to gain experience for a future career. These experiences provide students with chances to learn more about occupations and to determine whether these jobs and careers are compatible with their interests.