"To understand the true quality of people, you must look into their minds, and examine their pursuits and aversions. "
~Marcus Aurelius

What is Sociology?

The field of sociology is concerned with the study of the organization and behavior of human groups, communities or various social, economic, political or religious groups. Sociologists study the ways in which human behavior is predictable and affected by such factors as one's organizational position, social class, race, and gender. They also examine how social problems such as poverty, crime, and pollution are framed by our social institutions, and how change affects social groups, including the dramatic changes that are currently taking place among urban industrial societies throughout the world.

To view the sociology department's website, click here:
http://www.wpunj.edu/cohss/sociology/

Admissions link to Sociology:
http://www.wpunj.edu/admissions/undergraduate/academic-programs/programs_detail.dot?id=126105

What interests and skills do potential employers value in this career?

• Ability to examine and interpret world events
• Can see correlations and relationships between events and factors
• Can write and present information in a clear, succinct manner
• Can interpret ideas and events
• Knowledge of community resources
• Integrity
• Appreciation of diverse cultures and groups
• Tact
• Knowledge of social structures and change

Some careers that Sociology majors pursue are:

Aside from majoring in Sociology, what else can I do that may enhance my qualifications?

Students who major in Sociology at William Paterson University have numerous opportunities to enhance their academic experience. Students can obtain internships at police stations, museums and non-profit organizations through the Sociology department. In addition, students can join the Sociology Club which will enable them to meet others in their major with similar interests and career goals. The department also offers membership to Alpha Kappa Delta, the Sociology Honors Society, to students who meet certain GPA requirements. Students can contact the department for more information. Finally, many students find that a study abroad experience enhances their curriculum because they are given the opportunity to experience other cultures.

Related Sites:

American Sociological Association http://www.asanet.org/index.ww

International Sociological Association http://www.isa-sociology.org/

North American Society for the Sociology of Sport http://www.nasss.org/

Other sources of information:

Please drop by the Career Development and Advisement Center to learn more about careers in Sociology. The career library carries career-specific books and counselors are available to answer any further questions you may have. Visiting the department may also prove valuable in addressing questions.

The Career Development and Gloria S. Williams Advisement Center
Student Center 301, 300 Pompton Road Wayne, NJ 07470
Phone 973.720.2281/2282 Fax 973.720.2074

Contact us with comments, questions and feedback about the website.