Sociologists
What is a Sociologist?
Sociologists are social scientists who study the development, structure, and functioning of human society. They analyze social behavior, interactions, and institutions by applying various qualitative and quantitative research methods. Sociologists explore a wide range of topics, including family dynamics, education systems, social class, race and ethnicity, gender roles, and the impact of social policies. By investigating how social influences affect individual lives and overall communities, sociologists aim to understand the complexities of social phenomena and contribute to the development of solutions for social issues. Their findings often inform public policy, enhance social programs, and promote social justice by providing insights into the intricacies of human relationships and societal structure.
Tasks
- Analyze and interpret data to increase the understanding of human social behavior.
- Prepare publications and reports containing research findings.
- Develop, implement, and evaluate methods of data collection, such as questionnaires or interviews.
- Collect data about the attitudes, values, and behaviors of people in groups, using observation, interviews, and review of documents.
- Teach sociology.
Technology Skills
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Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- SAS
- StataCorp Stata
- VERBI MAXQDA
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Data base user interface and query software
- Microsoft Access
- QSR International NVivo
- Qualtrics Research Suite
- Thomson Reuters EndNote
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Web page creation and editing software
- Adobe Dreamweaver
- Social media sites
- Web editing software
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
Tools Used
- Scanners
- Videoconferencing systems
- Laser printers
- Digital voice recorders
- Digital camcorders or video cameras
Knowledge
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Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
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Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
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History and Archeology
Knowledge of historical events and their causes, indicators, and effects on civilizations and cultures.
Skills
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Active Learning
Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Abilities
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Inductive Reasoning
The ability to combine pieces of information to form general rules or conclusions (includes finding a relationship among seemingly unrelated events).
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Doctoral degree
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Master's degree
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
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Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
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Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Detailed Work Activities
- Conduct research on social issues.
- Interpret research or operational data.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Collect information from people through observation, interviews, or surveys.
- Develop methods of social or economic research.
Work Interests
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Investigative
Work involves studying and researching non-living objects, living organisms, disease or other forms of impairment, or human behavior. Investigative occupations are often associated with physical, life, medical, or social sciences, and can be found in the fields of humanities, mathematics/statistics, information technology, or health care service.
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Social
Work involves helping, teaching, advising, assisting, or providing service to others. Social occupations are often associated with social, health care, personal service, teaching/education, or religious activities.
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$59960.0 - $165280.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.