The Sociology curriculum at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire is designed to foster the development of the sociological imagination. The major includes the studies of data analysis, research methodology, and social theory. These areas, along with the skills gained by academic experiences, prepare sociology majors for a vast array of career opportunities. Upon completion of their degree graduates are confident in their abilities to do research, provide social analysis, evaluate programs, and place issues in a larger social perspective. UW – Eau Claire offers a liberal arts and an early adolescence/adolescence teaching major and minor in sociology.
What will I learn from studying Sociology?
Knowledge:
As a sociology major you will learn the history and major theories that support the study and understanding of social structures. Included in the study of society are organizations, minority groups, gender roles, life-course patterns, and social policies. The sociology major will also learn the function of data in analyzing social and organizational problems, such as aging, medical resources, crime, and urban development.
Skills:
- Capable of using data analysis tools
- Apply various research methodologies
- Communicate effectively
- Plan and carry out complex research projects
- Problem-solving
- Capable of gathering information and summarizing it effectively
- Evaluate competing interpretations of social phenomena
- Resourcefulness in investigating social issues
What are some of the interests and values related to Sociology?
- Reading, writing, and speaking skills
- Critical thinking skills
- A global perspective
- An interest and understanding of social problems and current events
- Desire to solve social problems
- Curiosity about social life and its structures
- Use of a variety of "tools" in studying social issues
- Knowledge of community resources
What are related student and professional organizations?
Student:
- Alpha Kappa Delta, International Honor Society for Students in Sociology
- Sociology Organization for Students
Professional:
What career fields are related to the Sociology Degree?
Potential Employers:
An individual who looks at issues with a sociological perspective brings a useful approach to any workplace. In almost any business, industry, or government office, sociologists can offer helpful approaches to research and development, policy analysis and development, and program evaluation.
Potential Job Titles:
- Consumer relations worker
- Public relations staffer
- Human resources manager
- Recruiter
- Criminal investigator
- Juvenile court worker
- Special agent
- Rehabilitation counselor
- Community organizer
- Housing coordinator
What are some career paths of UW – Eau Claire sociology graduates?
- Executive of Guest Service , Target, Sheboygan Falls, WI
- Care Giver , REM, Bloomington, MN
- Coordinator , Family Support Center, Chippewa Falls, WI
- Real Estate Agent , Woodbury, MN
- Director of Children's Programs , Madison School District, Madison, WI
- Juvenile Probation Officer , Florida Dept. of Juvenile Justice, Jacksonville, FL
- Firefighter/EMT , Eau Claire Fire Dept., Eau Claire, WI
- Law Student , Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI
How can I learn more about Sociology?
Department
- Contact someone in UW – Eau Claire’s Dept. of Sociology
- Schneider Social Science 440, 836-2720
Career Services:
- Meet with a career counselor
- Take interest inventories and self-assessment tests
- Ask An Alum & Friends, a database of UW – Eau Claire Alumni & Friends available for informational interviewing
Career Discovery Center:
- Careers in Social & Rehabilitation Services , Geraldine O. Garner
- 100 Jobs in Social Change , Macmillan
- Opportunities in Criminology , Marilyn Morgan
- Great Jobs for Sociology Majors , Lambert
- Opportunities in Social Science Careers , Rosanne J. Marek
- Careers for Puzzle Solvers & Other Methodical Thinkers , Jan Goldberg
Internet:
What are some opportunities for experimental learning in Sociology?
Internship
Internships are a way to gain hands-on experience in a position that interests you as a potential career. To find an internship in Sociology that suites your interests, visit Career Services (Schofield 230) and speak with a Career Associate about the many available internships. Contact your advisor or the Sociology department chair about enrolling in SOC 498, Field Practicum in Sociology, to obtain academic credit for your internship.
Directed Studies or Independent Study Class
By participating in an Independent or Directed Studies course, students will be able to research an area that they find particularly interesting. Contact your advisor about enrolling in SOC 395, 399 or 499.