This occupation requires complex human judgment, social interaction, and creative problem-solving that are difficult to automate.
Study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members.
Also Known As:Clinical Evaluator, Clinical Sociologist, Criminologist, Demographer, Evaluation Specialist, Family Sociologist, Medical Sociologist, Penologist +13 more
Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.
Prepare publications and reports containing research findings.
Develop, implement, and evaluate methods of data collection, such as questionnaires or interviews.
Collect data about the attitudes, values, and behaviors of people in groups, using observation, interviews, and review of documents.
Teach sociology.
Plan and conduct research to develop and test theories about societal issues such as crime, group relations, poverty, and aging.
Present research findings at professional meetings.
Explain sociological research to the general public.
Develop problem intervention procedures, using techniques such as interviews, consultations, role playing, and participant observation of group interactions.
Consult with and advise individuals such as administrators, social workers, and legislators regarding social issues and policies, as well as the implications of research findings.
Direct work of statistical clerks, statisticians, and others who compile and evaluate research data.
Collaborate with research workers in other disciplines.
Write grants to obtain funding for research projects.
Develop approaches to the solution of groups' problems, based on research findings in sociology and related disciplines.
Observe group interactions and role affiliations to collect data, identify problems, evaluate progress, and determine the need for additional change.
Emerging Tasks
New and evolving responsibilities for this role:
Mentor sociology students.
Review sociological research and articles.
Education & Training
Job Zone 5Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed
Education: Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Experience: Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.
On-the-Job Training: Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Doctoral Degree
50%
Master's Degree
30%
Bachelor's Degree
10%
Post-Doctoral Training
10%
Relevant College Majors
SociologyCIP 45.0401Social structures, institutions, and human behaviour.