Humanities and Social Sciences

School of Social Sciences

Sociology Program

What is Sociology?

Sociology is concerned with the study of social life and human behaviour - the structural arrangements and cultural patterns which shape behaviour at every level of social action, whether personal, local, national or global. It examines how we are shaped by the world around us but also how we also shape and construct the social and cultural world within which we live.

This broad field of study involves the examination of social structures (distribution of power, resources and privilege across major sections of society), the analysis of social processes (the means by which social structures are reproduced and changed), patterns and direction of social change (are things getting better or worse? can we detect a direction of change?) and patterns of meaning by which we try to make sense of the world around us.

Teaching

Sociology is currently available to students at the following campuses:

• Albury Wodonga
• Bendigo
• Melbourne (Bundoora)
• Mildura
• Shepparton

Career Opportunities

Sociology allows students to develop a range of skills appropriate to a diverse range of occupations. As well as providing specific training in research methods and techniques all the subjects (units) are designed to promote systematic and analytical thinking.

Subjects provide specific skills in research, analysis, writing, argument and thinking and promote an understanding of and sensitivity to social and cultural differences. The subjects seek to enable students to be adaptable and employable in a variety of careers rather than providing narrow training in a career that may not exist in tens years time. Areas in which sociology graduates obtain work include teaching, social research, market research, community development, human resource management, immigration and work with youth. Sociology graduates also go into administrative work and sociology provides an excellent foundation for social welfare courses.

Community Engagement

Sociologists in the School of Social Sciences have significant links with individuals and organisations outside of the University. Members of staff regularly advise or consult with organisations, including the media, ethnic or indigenous organisations, government institutions, development organisations, museums and many more, both in Australia and overseas.