How to Become a Sociologist

About Sociologist

Have you ever wondered how do the society and its dynamics work? People who study about society and social behavior by examining the groups, cultures, organizations, social institutions, and processes that develop when people interact, work and live together are the sociologists. As a sociologist, one will work and conduct many research projects to test theories and study social issues. They collect data through survey, observations, interviews and then tend to analyse them. They often use both quantitative and qualitative methods when conducting research, and they frequently use statistical analysis programs during the research process.

Sociologists are experts who conduct in-depth analyses of the various institutions, organisations, and groups that are created or developed through interactions and coexistence in order to study society and social behaviour. Sociologists are primarily in charge of gathering information through a variety of surveys and interviews, then analysing it to gain a better understanding of the social structure and the countless problems that come with it. 

Over 2,000 colleges in India offer UG and PG courses like BA Sociology and MA Sociology, including Loyola College in Chennai, St. Xavier's College in Mumbai, Fergusson College in Pune, Christ University in Bangalore, and Mount Carmel College in Bangalore. One may choose to pursue a PhD in sociology after successfully completing a postgraduate degree. These colleges' annual course fees range from INR 10,000 - INR 50,000. Students who complete the course can expect to earn an average salary of INR 3,50,000 - 5,00,000 LPA.

Roles and Responsibilities of a Sociologists 

Sociologists research a wide range of social issues, including human behaviour, interaction, and organisations. Health, gender, poverty, education, ethnic relations, and other social issues are examples. Here are some of the roles and responsibilities of a Sociologists listed below:

• Sociologists create various research projects to put theories about social issues to the test by collecting data via surveys, observations, and theories
• Sociologists give detailed presentations after analysing information and creating articles and reports
• Sociologists are also in charge of investigating the effects of social influences on sections of the population and individuals by following their growth and origin
• Sociologists also consult with other social scientists about research findings as well as other social issues
• Sociologists are responsible to prepare reports, articles and diverse presentations that discuss their findings
• In order to reach conclusions about their research findings, sociologists consult with other clients and decision-makers

Eligibility to become Sociologist

If you are planning to pursue a career in Sociology, you can opt for BA program at the undergraduate level and then later pursue post graduation in Sociology or related field, which is offered by most of the universities and colleges.

In order to pursue undergraduate (BA) in Sociology or its related fields, the candidate needs to have completed his/her 10+2 in preferable social sciences. The course lasts for three years.

Subject Combination: Any

Eligibility: 

For Undergraduate Courses:

In order to pursue undergraduate (BA) in Sociology or its related fields, the candidate must have passed class 12th with social science as one of the subjects.

For Postgraduate Courses:

Candidate must have completed their undergraduate studies in sociology with 60% as minimum aggregate.

How to Start Your Career as a Sociologist

Students should start preparing for sociology careers in high school. Students should focus on the subjects that will help them become sociologists and be mentally prepared. Following a few crucial steps can help you become a sociology:

• Making a Decision: Students who want to enroll in sociology classes must make their decision early, preferably while still in elementary school. They ought to participate in a debate or discussion about the subject
• Subject Options: Sociology courses are available in the future, and students with backgrounds in the arts and humanities are encouraged to do so. The required combination of subjects for sociology courses includes English, history, math, economics, political science, and a trade, among other things
• Preparing for Entrance Exams: The majority of colleges and universities use a merit-based admissions system. DUET, JMI, and CUET are a few universities that hold entrance exams, among others. Both objective and subjective type questions are asked in the entrance exams. Quantitative aptitude, reasoning skills, English comprehension, computer awareness, and data interpretation sections are among the many sections that make up the entrance examination
• Choosing the Right Colleges: Choose your college based on the following criteria:

                         - The colleges in your city that offer sociology courses should be ranked by the NIRF

                         - Based on the opinions of former students, choose a college

                         - Based on the teacher's experience and educational background, choose a college

• After Passing the Entrance Exam: After passing the entrance exams, some colleges and universities hold rounds of personal interviews, while other colleges base admission on the results of the entrance exam

Courses to Become a Sociologist

Sociology courses are available in almost all Indian colleges and universities. Students can easily pursue Sociology courses at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The details of sociology undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and doctoral programmes are provided below.

• BA Sociology

A bachelor's degree in sociology is a three-year full-time undergraduate programme. In this course, students will learn about social interaction, social stratification, culture, and social relations, among other things. The highest educational qualification is a Bachelor's degree, which is held by 46% of sociologists.

Admission Process

In some colleges where Sociology courses are offered, admission is determined by merit. However, the University of Delhi has an entrance-based admissions process for Sociology courses.

Entrance Exam for Admission

Admission to BA Sociology programmes is typically based on merit. Before the admissions process begins, colleges publish their cut-offs. BA Hons entrance exams are typically held. in Sociology, as well as an MA in Sociology.

Eligibility criteria BA Sociology Course

In order to be considered for the BA Sociology course, candidates are required to fulfill the following admission criteria:

• Students must have a minimum aggregate of 50% in their 10+2 examination from a recognised board. SC/ ST/ PWD/ OBC applicants will receive a 5% relaxation
• English should also be one of the candidates' main subjects in 10+2. Aside from that. In some cases, you may also be required to meet the entrance exams cut-off to be eligible

Other Courses Related to Becoming a Sociologist

Aside from a Bachelor's degree to pursue a career as a Sociologist, students can also study sociology through a variety of other courses.

• Sociology Certificate Programs

These are brief courses. Certificate courses in Sociology are available in a variety of specialisations, including Applied Sociology, Comparative Sociology, Collective Behaviour, and Cultural Sociology, among others. The time span of these certificate courses is 6 months to one year.

Admissions Procedure

This course is available at Delhi University and Central University. The admissions process is completed online, and students are not required to take an entrance examination before enrolling in this course. The admissions process for these courses is based on merit.

Eligibility Criteria for the Course

Students must graduate with a minimum of 50% in Science or Arts, with Sociology as one of the required subjects.

• MA Sociology

MA Sociology or Social Researcher is a two-year full-time postgraduate course that focuses on the broad study of society and its mechanisms. Sociologists with a Master's degree account for 35% of the total.

Admissions Procedure

There are two methods for admitting. It can be based on the performance of the candidates in the entrance exam or on their performance in graduation.

• The application forms are usually made available in June
• The list of selected applicants is mostly displayed on the college's website

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria differ from one college to the next. Here are some of the most widely accepted MA Sociology eligibility criteria that candidates must meet:

• Students must complete their graduation requirements in any undergraduate course. The students from Humanities backgrounds have an advantage over others
• The minimum graduation percentage can range between 45% and 50%. The percentage varies depending on the college

• PhD in Sociology

A sociologist can continue pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology after completing a postgraduate degree in Sociology. This is an advanced research methods course. Sociologists can specialise in a variety of fields, including social movements, race and ethnicity, culture and politics, urban sociology, clinical sociology, and so forth.

Admissions Procedure

Students are admitted to universities based on their performance in the entrance examination and their post-graduate grades. Jawaharlal Nehru University holds an entrance examination for students interested in pursuing a PhD in Sociology.

Eligibility Criteria

• Candidates must have earned at least a master's degree in sociology from an accredited university or institution, or have taken sociology as a subject
• Candidates must hold an MPhil degree in a relevant field from an accredited university or institution with a minimum of 55% overall
• According to UGC guidelines, candidates from the reserved categories of SC, ST, OBC, and PH are given a 5% mark or equivalent grade relaxation
• 5 years of senior-level experience in the teaching, business, government, or other professions

Types of Job Roles Sociologist

Sociologists undertake many research projects in the field. Listed below are some of the popular sociologist job profiles:

Teacher/Professor: Sociologists after completing their Ph.D. degree can start teaching in schools/ colleges/ universities as teachers and lecturers.

Psychologists/Guidance Counselor: The guidance counselors use their knowledge regarding the society to provide students with academic assistance and guidance. They are also in touch with families to devise strategies to support the achievements of their students. Guidance counselors utilize their interview and counseling techniques to help students make the right academic and career choices.

Management Consultant: Many sociologists, after completing their formal education, become management consultants. They analyse business issues and look for possible remedies and present solutions by making use of qualitative and quantitative sociology skills.

Market Research Analyst: Their job responsibility is to test products and services and evaluate the effectiveness of marketing campaigns. They utilize social science research techniques, including interviews, surveys, and focus groups, to gather data.

Social Worker: They utilize the knowledge of social dynamics and social institutions learned as a sociology major to assess client issues and help resolve problems. They make referrals to appropriate community agencies to leverage resources on behalf of individuals and families.

Employment Opportunities for Sociologists

Sociologists can be found in a surprising array of fields and careers. From management to public sector to corporates to MNCs, their social skills are needed in almost all the sectors. Listed below are some of the popular employment opportunities for sociologists:

• Rural and Child Welfare
• Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Advertising Agencies
• Management Consultancy
• Hospitals
• Schools/ Colleges/ Universities
• Government and Political Action Groups
• Journalism & Media
• Media Research
• NGOs
• Medical Aid Institutions
• Public Sector Undertaking (PSUs)
• Education and Child Welfare

Top Recruiting Companies for Sociologists

Top companies and organizations that recruit sociologists are as follows:

• WHO
• UNICEF
• KPMG
• Deloitte
• UNESCO
• Central and State Government Agencies

Skill Required for a Sociologist

A Psychologist must possess certain abilities. These abilities are required of a sociologist. These abilities are listed in the table below:

• Communication Ability
• Analytical Ability
• Problem-Solving Ability
• Critical thinking Abilities
• Writing Ability
• Patience

Pay Scale/Salary of Sociologist

The salary of Sociologists depends on the level of qualification in education, professional experience and the industry type where they are working. The salary of a Sociologist will increase with professional experience and the nature of the job they do. Sociologists can expect higher salaries from corporate houses as compared to the government sector. The salary packages of the sociologists are listed below:

Note: The above figures are an estimate and may vary from individual to individual and company to company.

Career Path of a Sociologist

The Sociology course assists students in developing critical thinking skills as well as marketable skills. A Sociologist may pursue careers as a Journalist, Social Worker, Family Counsellor, Administrative Assistant, or Survey Researcher. These job opportunities also have a good starting salary range.

Higher Education: After completing UG and PG Sociology courses, students can begin working as family counselors. Students can also pursue an MPhil and a PhD in Sociology courses with various specialisations. These degrees will prepare students to work as Sociology lecturers and Welfare Rights Advisers.

Start Job: After completing their UG and PG Sociology courses, students can begin their career as a family counsellor or social worker. A Sociologist may pursue careers as a Journalist, Social Worker, Family Counsellor, Administrative Assistant, or Survey Researcher.

This course is appropriate for people who have strong communication skills and an interest in delving into society's complexities. Community outreach is an important factor in determining the depth of sociology. Another requirement is the ability to separate data qualitatively and quantitatively. Sociology has a broad scope because it intersects with almost every other discipline. Sociologists' functions fit into a variety of job profiles. 

There is a high demand for people who are well-versed in data research and analysis, particularly in fields such as public relations, market research, and insurance, among others. Because people cannot separate themselves from social functions, integration, and interaction, the field of sociology continues to be very relevant in India. Sociologists play an important role when this social function extends to corporations. Additionally, they must oversee these organisational processes and contribute to improving the client-employee relationship.

Advantages of Career as a Sociologist

There are numerous specialisations available to students in the field of sociology. For students, future employment prospects are excellent. A student's ability to better understand their own life is aided by studying sociology.

• Salary: A sociologist can make a good monthly wage. After earning their degree, sociologists typically earn between INR 4,00,000 and INR 6,00,000 annually as their starting salary
• Job Security: A sociologo can look into careers as a journalist, social worker, family therapist, administrative assistant, and survey researcher, among others. These jobs typically come without any hassles and are secure in terms of any financial risk
• Positive Impact of the Career: The sociology course can improve your critical thinking abilities and sharpen your marketable skills, which will benefit your career
• Higher Education: After completing UG and PG sociology courses, students can continue their education by pursuing an MPhil or a PhD in sociology with a variety of specialisations
• Unique Experience: A Sociology course allows students to explore the systematic nature of various dynamics and phenomena, which is a unique experience. In fields like education, healthcare, public policy, and marketing, sociology is a crucial course to take

Books & Study Material to Become Sociologist

Candidates who are planning to pursue a career in sociology must have access to the right books and study material. To become a sociologist, it is very important for candidates to study both textual and non-textual books to enhance their knowledge and intellectual growth. Listed below are some of the popular sociology reads that can help you build a career in the field.

• Sociology Theory by George Ritzer
• Indian Sociological Thought by B K Nagla
• Sociology - Anthony Giddens
• Handbook of Indian Sociology by Veena Das
• Social Background of Indian Nationalism by A.R. Desai
• Sociological Thought by Francis Abraham and John Henry Morgan
• Modernization of Indian Tradition by Yogendra Singh

Pros of becoming a Sociologist

• Being a Sociologist helps one in constant intellectual growth which is not usually offered in other job profiles.
• Sociologists examine human society within larger social, political and economic contexts. One of the major benefits of being a Sociologist is the chance to influence efforts to solve social problems.
• Although most sociologists are not wealthy, they do earn healthy and stable incomes. The annual incomes of sociologists do not fluctuate from year to year, and they often have a lot of time off. This provides them with ample time to spend with their family and friends.

Cons of becoming a Sociologist

• Sociologists spend a lot of their time interacting with strangers and conducting surveys which require a lot of patience and public relation skills at their end.
• To have a stable career as a sociologist, it is very important for one to pursue Ph.D. in the respective field as the competition is very high.