Sociology

Sociology is the study of social behavior or society, including its origins, development, organization, networks, and institutions. It is a social science that uses various methods of empirical investigation and critical analysis to develop a body of knowledge about social order, disorder and change. The field of sociology are called sociologists. Many sociologists aim to conduct research that may be applied directly to social policy and welfare, while others focus primarily on refining the theoretical understanding of social processes.
Social work is an academic and professional discipline that seeks to facilitate the welfare of communities, individuals, families and groups. It may promote social change, development, cohesion, and empowerment. Underpinned by theories of social sciences and guided by principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance well-being. A practicing professional with a degree in social work is called a social worker.

Career opportunities as a sociologist:
There are job opportunities of working as a sociologist, studying human society and social behavior, or studying various social, religious, political, and business organizations. Typically jobs as sociologists require a higher level of education. The following are the most lucrative industries for a sociologist as marked by The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Scientific Research and Development Services
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools
Management, Scientific, and Technical Consulting Services
Local Government (OES Designation)
State Government (OES Designation)
A great way to learn about career opportunities is to speak to your professors or college adviser. They may know of vacancies or people to contact to learn more about internships, research opportunities, or other positions of interest.

Career in Teaching
M.A graduates in sociology can pursue their career in teaching after qualifying the National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Level Eligibility Test (SLET). Those who qualify in NET or SET can join any college or University in India as an Assistant Professor or Associate Professor.
Career in Administrative Services
Indian Civil Services like IAS, IPS and IFS are also good options for these graduates as their main subject is sociology. For that, they should qualify the Civil Service Aptitude Test (CSAT) held by Union Public Service Commission. They can also write the exams conducted by State Public Service Commission and get into various administrative posts like
Assistant Commissioner
Block Development Officer
Tehsil Welfare Officer
Sub-divisional Magistrate
District Public Relation Officer
Career in Research
Those who possess M.A degree in Sociology can pursue their career as Junior Research Fellow in Indian Statistical Institute. Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology offer the job of Junior Research Assistant to these graduates on the contract basis. It is also possible for them to join as Junior Research Officer in National Institute of Urban Affairs. They can also join Centre for Advanced Research and Development (CARD) as Senior Research Officer or Field Officer. But in that case, they should have adequate experience in the related field.
Career in Health, family, and child development Services
M.A graduates in Sociology can join Centre for Gerontological Studies and pursue their career as Gerontologists. They can get into the post of Child Development Project Officer or District Programme Officer after qualifying the exam held by State Public Service Commission. They can also work in District Child Protection Society as Probation Officer. Other jobs available for these graduates in the field of Health, Family and Child Development Services are
Marriage Counselor
Liaison Officer
Family and Child Development Officer
Rehabilitation Counselor
Health Educator
Career in Criminology and Educational Institutions
After completing M.A in Sociology, one can get into the post of Probation and Prison Welfare Officer after qualifying the exam conducted by the concerned State Public Service Commission. They can also join as District Probation Officer or Parole Officer. Jobs available for these graduates in the educational field are
Admission Counselor
Placement Officer
Substance Abuse