Are you interested in:

  • Learning why human events occur
  • Questioning “common sense” knowledge
  • Creating social change
  • Advocating for social justice
  • Being comfortable with not always having “right” answers
  • Working with others
  • Understanding how groups work
  • Social diversity

Sociology is the scientific study of society, which involves the study of human behavior and the social lives of people, groups and societies. Students within the sociology program conduct research and field work, work in internships, and participate in special events related to their program of study. This major prepares students for a job market where critical thinking skills and problem solving are major assets. Sociology prepares students to complete research and assessments of social problems in society. Students are fully prepared to go into graduate school or to continue into a career in the community.

Types of jobs:

  • Nonprofit administration
  • Advocacy work
  • Research analyst
  • Social justice/welfare organizations
  • Political action organizations
  • Labor relations
  • Emergency and disaster management
  • Victim advocacy
  • Teaching K-12
  • Human resource manager
  • College teaching

Attend graduate school for:

  • Sociology
  • Public administration
  • Public policy
  • Social work
  • Criminal justice
  • Education
  • Law

Options for the major:

  • B.A. in sociology
  • Double major in sociology/criminology
  • Internship – recent placements include:
    • InterAct of Wake County (domestic violence and sexual assault prevention agency)
    • Boys and Girls Clubs of NC
    • Planned Parenthood
    • Wake County Public Schools
    • United Ministries of Wake County
    • Salvation Army
    • Haven House
    • Neighbor to Neighbor
  • Participation in Sociology Week
  • Participation in CSI Week
  • Service learning courses
  • Sociology career toolkit
  • Job fairs
  • Sociology/Criminology Club
  • Include specific electives as needed for licensure requirements if you are interested in elementary, middle, or high school teaching

Professional associations:

Career outlook:

Sociologist
Nonprofits
High school teacher

Additional information:

Meredith’s sociology major »

Assistant Professor of Sociology Amie Hess is the primary author on The Status of Girls in North Carolina. This report offers a detailed compilation of data that documents factors that impact girls’ lives within the state.