Careers

Sociology and Changing society

W.E.B. Du Bois

Sociology is an academic discipline that aids our understanding of social relations. Many sociologists work agencies promoting positive change in contemporary society.

Now established in most university course offerings, sociology is much influenced by its formal beginnings in European philosophy and its maturation in modern America and Britain as a tool of social reform. The study of urban social and political change is one area of sociology in which black scholars such as African Americans W.E.B. Du Bois, St Clair Drake, and E. Franklin Frazier have made seminal contributions.

What's it about?
With a sociology qualification you can work in a wide variety of jobs - in social work, teaching, local government, the civil service, personnel, the media and journalism. Research posts in political affairs institutes and welfare organisations are much sought after as are appointments in alternative political, social, gender, faith communities, anti-racist, and ecological and environmental groups.

How is it taught?
Students learn through attending class lectures, exams, essays, field work, projects and dissertations.

How relevant is it to today's concerns?
Very relevant, particularly if you have a conscience about human rights, social problems and change in social policy, policing and criminal justice, immigration, unemployment, alcohol and drug abuse. Cutttting edge topics include the changing nature of household and work relations, the impact of new technologies such as information technology or genetic modification on society.

What are the entry qualifications?
Best to have several A-levels and skill in maths and languages. Expect to be interviewed and tested if you're a mature student without A-levels or coming off access courses.

How many years of study?
Three years; but four in Scotland. To be a fully qualified professional you will have to undertake further years of postgraduate study

Where's best for a sociology degree?
How long is a piece of string? Courses are offered at the London School of Economics, Oxford, Edinburgh, Goldsmith and North London for research. And, Birmingham, Stirling, Sussex, Warwick and Thames Valley are noted for their teaching expertise. Check current educational directories for who's offering what courses and where (perhaps closer to home).

What do course tutors look for in new students?
Best to have some computer skills and prior work in a voluntary or community organisation. They also look for persons who are aware of social situations and patterns of behaviour other than their own.

What are some points to keep in mind?
Many applicants choose urban institutions. You may have to examine your own prejudices in order to learn from the laboratory of city life and institutions. Be prepared to be critical of your college course if it has no black and ethnic minority lecturers and if the library does not stock key books on black history and achievement.

What grades are expected at graduation?
B or C grades are OK, but most important is proving you have benefited from the course.

How to apply?
Consult your mentor, tutor or careers advisor.

For further information check out university websites, and see The Penguin Careers Guide