Careers

Many students are concerned with how their major will help them obtain work after graduation. An undergraduate degree in sociology provides a broad range of analytical, organizational, critical thinking, and communication skills that are in high demand in today’s job market, regardless of the career field. According to the American Sociological Association, 87% of sociology majors go directly into the labor force after earning a degree, while the remainder pursue some type of advanced study.

What can I do with a Sociology major?

Keys to Academic and Career Success

Why Sociology?

Sociology is an ideal field for those who want a modern, competitive degree that will make them valuable in today’s changing job market. An undergraduate degree in sociology provides a solid foundation for a wide variety of occupations and professions, as well as graduate school training.

Sociology majors learn the fundamental skills and knowledge employers seek:

Analytic reasoning and problem solving skills
The research skills of collecting and analyzing data
The ability to think critically
Oral and written communication skills
Global and multicultural awareness
The ability to interact effectively in diverse teams
A sense of social responsibility

What else can I do?

The most employable students are those who have completed several internships, gained volunteer and leadership experience during their college career, and who have excelled in their courses. Visit the Internship page, the Internship Database, and the Dean of Students Involvement page for more information on these opportunities.

What are my career options?

A major in sociology provides an excellent background for a variety of occupations. Consult the ISU Career Center for more information about career opportunities for sociology majors.

The fields listed below are just some of the areas sociology major have been able to find work in:

Business
Criminal Justice
Education
Environment and Health
Government
Human Services
Law
Research & Technology
Nonprofits and Foundations
More...

Where else can I find information?

The Illinois State University Career Center

The ISU Career Center is located on the lower level of the Student Services Building (across from the Bone Student Center). The Career Center offers career advisement and a wealth of information about potential careers for sociology majors.