Career with a B.A. in Sociology

Sociologists study human behavior as it pertains to human interaction within the guidelines of an organizational structure. The interaction between humans is more complex than the interactions between other animal species. Human behavior is greatly influenced and governed by social, religious, and legal guidelines. A sociologist studies these behaviors and the influences that preserve certain behaviors and change others.

Sociology is a broad science, covering many different disciplines the social sciences. Anthropology, archeology, and linguistics are the few disciplines that surpass what sociology readily encompasses. Sociology also studies more tangible measures of human behavior such as class or social status, social movements, criminal deviance, and even revolution.

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Career Education in Sociology

Because sociology-related careers are so diverse, one's education requirements vary from one position to the next. To ensure the proper degree or courses are available, future sociology majors should consider their ultimate career goals before enrolling in a degree program. Consider the following degree types:

Diplomas, Certificates, and Associate Degrees in Sociology

Certificate programs in sociology give students a solid foundation in the field. Course time is typically equivalent of two full time semesters of work. The actual time required to obtain an online certificate in sociology varies depending on the educational institution and the individual student's learning pace.

Bachelor's Degrees in Sociology

A bachelor's degree in sociology requires degree specific classes such as principles of sociology, social problems, statistical analysis, race and ethnicity, social deviance, social theory, sociology of business, sociology of politics, sociology of education, urban sociology, and social psychology. Many colleges and universities also expose sociology majors to key arts and science courses, including: composition, humanities, mathematics, general science, fine arts, history and a variety of electives.

Many full-time students can complete their bachelor's degree in sociology in about four years. Part-time students can complete their course work in four to seven years, depending on their own learning pace and their outside commitments.

Preparing for a Sociology Degree

Because a sociology degree demands that students devote a significant amount of time to research and writing, high school students can relieve some of their time burdens by enrolling in advanced placement courses. These high school courses allow students to earn college credit for key subjects such as history, literature, and mathematics.

By reducing their course load, students can graduate early and join the work force sooner. More often, students choose to use their extra credits to give themselves lighter schedules that allow them to spend more time on research. Students who hold a part-time job during their undergraduate degree programs particularly benefit from advanced placement courses.