Sociologist
Tasks & duties
Sociologists may do some or all of the following:
- research social issues such as ethnic relations, gender and social inequalities
- research social interactions or behaviour between groups
- conduct surveys, interviews, field observations and other investigations into society
- analyse and interpret information
- develop and test theories about society
- write reports on research findings
- provide commentary or analysis for the media
- advise government, businesses, community groups or local authorities on social policy
- teach sociology at tertiary level
Skills & knowledge
Sociologists need to have:
- knowledge of theories about society
- knowledge of the media and social issues
- knowledge of gender and social differences, including different cultural and religious beliefs
- research skills
- the ability to analyse and interpret information
- the ability to think critically
- planning and organisational skills
- written and oral communication skills
Entry requirements
To become a sociologist you need to have a Master of Arts or a Master of Social Sciences majoring in sociology. A Doctorate in sociology is preferred for most academic positions.
Secondary education
A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter tertiary training. Useful subjects include English, history, sociology, geography, or languages.
Training on the job
Skills are gained on the job and sociologists are expected to keep up to date with sociological theory, reports and research methods.
Useful experience
Useful experience for sociologists includes work involving contact with people and research and statistics.
Related courses
Anthropology
Sociology
Teacher Education: Tertiary
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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