Sociology
What is Sociology?
Sociology is the study of social life. Since all human behaviour is social, the subject matter of sociology ranges from the intimate family to the hostile mob; from organised crime to religious cults; from the divisions of race, gender and social class to the shared beliefs of a common culture; and from the large-scale issues of global development and social change to the more immediate issues of everyday relationships within our family, friends and communities. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations, and societies, and how people interact within these contexts. Its broad scope and relevance for research, theory, and application of knowledge makes sociology one of the most versatile and valuable university majors.
Why study Sociology?
- Are you curious about people?
- Do you want to know why people act the way they do?
- Do you want to understand what social justice is?
- Do you want to understand the possibilities and obstacles for social change?
- Do you want to understand a specific problem such as homelessness or global terrorism?
- Do you want to be able to see the bigger picture?
- Do you want to understand how social institutions such as school, church or sport shape social life and who we are?
- Do you want to explore questions related to gender, race, sexuality and class?
Sociology canÂ…
- Be studied as both a major and minor.
- Lead to rewarding careers in local, state and federal government agencies and administration; in politics; in social development; in managerial positions in public and private organisations; in industrial relations; in counselling; in research, and many more.
For more information see Monash University Handbook entry for Sociology: Areas of Study.