How To Use a Sociology Degree in Business

While psychology studies the human mind, sociology studies how groups of humans interact and relate to one another. Many professionals in the business sector can benefit greatly from supplemental studies, but sociology may help business-minded individuals understand their customers better.

This is essential for creating a great product or service, and developing an effective marketing strategy that makes customers want to purchase it. We'll discuss sociology degrees and how the social sciences can help business professionals.

What Is Sociology?

A sociology degree is an academic program focused on society, social relationships, and social institutions. It explores structures, patterns, and functions of human behavior in various contexts, ranging from small groups to large-scale organizations and societies.

In a sociology degree, students will learn to examine prominent groups in society, such as:

• family
• education
• religion
• economy
• government

It's important to understand how these groups function in society, and why these dynamics are often seen as necessary. Students will learn about social hierarchies and develop their critical thinking skills by analyzing data sets and using quantitative research methods.

How Is Sociology Used in Business?

Sociology is highly applicable to business because companies must understand their customers to create excellent products. However, it's not only limited to products and services. The group dynamics studied in sociology come into play through focus groups and various other group studies.

Office managers and professionals in human resources can also apply sociology studies to inter-office dynamics.

Business Career Paths for Sociology Majors

Sociology students can benefit from their undergrad studies and eventually various employment opportunities. Some of the most popular career tracks for sociology majors are listed below. The below entry-level positions utilize the analytical skills and social research developed through the typical four-year sociology degree.

Human Resources Specialist

A human resources specialist utilizes their understanding of group behavior and organizational culture to manage recruitment, employee relations, and workplace diversity. The next step up from specialist is to become a human resources manager, where they may take on added responsibilities for fostering positive office relationships.

Marketing Research Analyst

Marketing research has to do with public opinion regarding a company or the products and services they offer. A market research analyst applies sociological research methods to analyze consumer behavior and market trends, helping businesses develop targeted marketing strategies.

Marketing research might include conducting focus groups where they can ask specific questions to a control group within their demographics. Sociologists develop research designs to understand an inquiry about the audience. For example, a soap company may ask what kind of laundry detergent the focus group members use, and why they choose one brand over another.

Corporate Social Responsibility Analyst

Modern consumers are more educated and aware of social issues including social inequality. Often, they may choose to buy from a company that aligns with their views. The corporate social responsibility analyst develops and implements programs that align business practices with social and environmental values.

Public Relations Specialist

A public relations specialist is the middle person between the company and the consumer. They manage communication between organizations and the public to maintain a positive public image of the company.

This professional must have excellent communication and data analysis skills to develop insights based on information they learn about the public. Professionals usually obtain degrees in English or communications, though sociology graduates may also get hired for this role.

Community Relations Manager

The community relations manager maintains relationships between organizations and the communities. This role is important for non-profit companies as they may directly serve a specific community For example, a healthcare non-profit within a region may want to offer free services and initiatives to build its reputation. The communication relations manager may develop mental health services for free within the community, or host an awareness campaign.

Policy Analyst

From a governmental perspective, it's important to understand the local or national audience they serve and represent. A policy analyst must work closely with policymakers to research and analyze data to influence and develop policies.

This is a great profession for those studying sociology because it directly relates to large groups of people and how social change may affect them. To properly address these social issues, a professional may need to earn a master's degree in sociology or attend law school.

Entrepreneur

As a business owner, this individual must fully understand market trends to build a great company from scratch and deeply know their target audience for effective sales strategies. An entrepreneur can use sociological knowledge to identify market needs, build inclusive business models, and create ventures that address social challenges.

Sociology coursework can help entrepreneurs learn how to conduct study groups while they're in the phase of building a product. This area of study can also help them foster an effective office environment. While sociology degree programs are a good stepping point, professionals may want to gain experience through a business school where they can understand important skills related to business ownership.

Strategic Planner

A strategic planner works internally in a company to develop long-term business strategies that consider social trends and organizational goals. Social services can come into play as the planner will likely encourage internal initiatives to develop employees and maintain a learning-first environment.

This position will likely require an advanced degree through grad school where the professional can demonstrate a long history of analyzing research and building model programs.

Diversity and Inclusion Specialist

Aligning with the same points made for corporate social responsibility, consumers are concerned about diversity and inclusion and usually don't want to purchase from a company that isn't making an effort in this area.

A diversity and inclusion specialist usually promotes diversity in the workplace. They may implement policies that ensure equitable treatment for all employees. They may also act as a consultant to the hiring managers to emphasize hiring employees from all ethnicities.

Corporate Trainer

A corporate trainer designs and delivers training programs that enhance employee skills, focusing on topics like:

• diversity
• leadership
• organizational behavior

This position is more general than the diversity and inclusion specialist and may only require a bachelor's degree in a sociology program.

FAQs About Using a Sociology Degree in Business

Sociology can lead to several different subfields within business and provide a wealth of knowledge for improving relationships. If you're considering a future in business and want to know if sociology is the right higher education track, then continue reading for these frequently asked questions.

Can I Work in Business With a Sociology Degree?

Yes, there are a variety of positions within the business sector that can start from a sociology degree. If you're considering which career track is right, research business professions and their responsibilities.

For instance, search LinkedIn for other business professionals with a sociology degree for real-life examples of how to use this degree. Alternatively, you can check out the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) during your job search for information on popular professionals and if they're currently in demand.

Can I Get an MBA With a Sociology Degree?

Yes, there are some sociology programs at the graduate level. You may enter a master's of sociology program. This program will continue your undergraduate studies and incorporate more opportunities to conduct research.

How Can I Apply My Sociology Degree in a Corporate Setting?

Corporate trainers may design and conduct training programs on topics like communication and team-building. Additionally, human resources initiatives may include an analysis of group dynamics and social behavior to foster a positive work environment.