What Sociologists Do

Sociologists study society and social behavior by examining the groups, cultures, organizations, social institutions, and processes that people develop.

Duties

Sociologists typically do the following:

• Design research projects to test theories about social issues
• Collect data through surveys, observations, interviews, and other sources
• Analyze and draw conclusions from data
• Prepare reports, articles, or presentations detailing their research findings
• Collaborate with other sociologists or social scientists
• Consult with and advise clients, policymakers, or other groups on research findings and sociological issues

Sociologists study human social lives, activities, interactions, processes, and organizations within the context of larger social, political, and economic forces. They examine how social influences affect different individuals and groups, and the ways organizations and institutions affect people's lives.

They study the behavior of, and interaction among, groups, organizations, institutions, and nations. They look at activities in social, religious, political, economic, and business organizations. They also trace the origin and growth of these groups and interactions.

Educators, lawmakers, administrators, and social workers use sociological research to solve social problems and formulate public policy. Sociologists specialize in a wide range of social topics, including the following:

• Health
• Crime
• Education
• Racial and ethnic relations
• Families
• Population
• Gender
• Poverty
• Aging

Many people with a sociology background become professors and teachers. Others often find work in related jobs outside the sociologist profession as survey researchers, statisticians, policy analysts, and demographers. For more information, see the profiles on postsecondary teachers, survey researchers, and statisticians.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition