Why Sociology?

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of social life, social change, and social inequality. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies and how people interact within these contexts. Sociology looks at a wide range of issues from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from environmentalism to religious traditions; as well as race, Indigeneity, gender, sexuality, and social class.

What skills do I gain with a Sociology degree?

Sociology students bring many important skills to the workforce when they graduate such as:

  • Understanding the causes and effects of social inequality across multiple dimensions (such as gender, race, ethnicity, Indigenous identity, age, sexual minority status, and social class);
  • Data collection and interpretation;
  • Qualitative analysis (interviewing skills, focus groups);
  • Quantitative analysis (survey data analysis, statistics, demographic analysis);
  • Synthesizing and communicating complex ideas;
  • Presenting ideas and data clearly;
  • Writing and oral presentation communication skills;
  • Identifying and understanding social trends and social change.

 

What kind of jobs can I get with a Sociology degree?

The skills and educational background gained in sociology are well-suited for work in the following industries and functions: 

  • Analytics;
  • Communications;
  • Community Health;
  • Data Analyst;
  • Education;
  • Government;
  • Human Resources;
  • Immigration;
  • Justice;
  • Market Research;
  • Non-Profit Sector;
  • Public Policy Analysis;
  • Health Policy Analysis;
  • Public Relations;
  • Research.

 

Steps

1. Apply to Western

The first step in pursuing a degree in Sociology is to Apply to Western University. Admissions decisions are made by the Admissions Office. Students can declare an area of interest when applying, but this does not mean you are entered into our program. Students interested in our program should apply to Western in the Faculty of Social Science. 

2. Include Sociology in your first year courses

All modules in the Department of Sociology require that students complete 1.0 credits of courses in Sociology at the 1000 level. Enrol in both half-year courses offered at the 1000 level:

  • Sociology 1025A/B Society and You
  • Sociology 1027A/B Life is Not Always Fair

3. Declare a Sociology module 

Every year during Intent to Register, students sign up for an academic program (module) for the subsequent fall/winter term.