A bachelor's degree with a major in sociology provides a liberal arts and sciences education. Sociology provides a broad foundation for a number of careers that require a deep understanding of human interactions and behaviors. Though broad in scope, sociology can be broken down into many marketable specializations including these at the University of Iowa: criminology; family, health, and well-being; organizations, networks, and careers; social psychology; and social and political organization.

The major provides background for employment in fields such as human services, criminal justice, corrections, sales, public relations, advertising, personnel, applied social research, community organization, and teaching social science in secondary schools. It also provides a foundation for graduate or professional study in social work, urban planning, law, criminal justice, social policy, and similar areas. Finally, the major prepares students to work toward advanced degrees in sociology, which qualify them for college or university teaching and work in academic, private, and governmental research.