Sociology
Sociological investigation ranges from the analysis of small groups to large social systems. Using a variety of methods and skills, sociology explores how individual and collective ways of thinking, feeling and acting are shaped by our social experience.
Admission Information
- Apply to the Social Sciences admission category on the St. George campus
- Six Grade 12 U or M courses, including English are required
- Students outside of Ontario should have the equivalent senior high school credits
Bachelor of Arts Programs
- Sociology (specialist, major and minor options)
First-Year Courses
- SOC 101Y1 – Introduction to Sociology
- SOC 102H1 – Introduction to Sociology: Social Inequalities
- SOC 103H1 – Introduction to Sociology: Social Institutions and Processes
Advice for First Year
Students who are interested in enrolling in a sociology program should take SOC 101Y1, or both SOC 102H1 and SOC 103H1. This is a prerequisite for many other courses in the department and is required for all programs in sociology.
Careers
Organizations of all kinds need sociologists with skills in data analysis, policy analysis and the ability to work with people from different fields of expertise. Municipal governments, for example, hire specialists in urban sociology, social work, community relations and regional planning. In private business, sociologists work in management consulting firms and public opinion polling organizations, as well as in labour relations and human resources.
A degree in sociology gives students many different skills and abilities that can be applied to a wide variety of career opportunities. Some students pursue further studies at the graduate level. A master’s degree takes one or two years beyond the BA. A PhD in sociology requires the writing of a thesis and may take five to seven years of study beyond the BA. Positions as faculty members in post-secondary educational institutions require a doctoral degree (PhD) with evidence of first-class scholarly research and excellent communication skills.
Direct career options include:
| Community worker | Public policy analyst |
| Counsellor | Public relations |
| Foreign service officer | Sociologist |
| Human rights officer | Social survey researcher |
| Probation or parole officer | Social worker |
| Public administrator | Volunteer coordinator |
What is the difference between a sociologist and a social worker?
A sociologist has obtained a specialist or graduate degree in sociology and is qualified to work in fields which require the analysis of social organization. Social work is more applied and practice-oriented than sociology. However many social workers find that a degree in sociology is useful.
