Sociology Careers: taking you where you want to go
Newcastle Sociology graduates go on to pursue a wide range of careers across the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Our students have obtained rewarding jobs in a number of professions, including:
- journalism
- marketing and public relations
- teaching
- environmental NGOs
- overseas development
- local council officers in various fields
- university lecturers and academic research
- policy research
- social work
If you would like a better sense of what previous Sociology students have done with their lives, you can browse through the fascinating profiles of our Sociology alumni.
Newcastle University has a great record for graduate employment, ranking 12th nationally for ‘numbers in graduate level jobs’ (Sunday Times University Guide 2011). To find out more about the career pathways careers of our recent graduates, explore the latest DLHE (Destination of Leavers from Higher Education) statistics for BA Sociology and BA Politics and Sociology graduates.
The right skills for the new world of work
Our degree programmes give students the chance to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the new world of work. 95% of 2010 graduates in Sociology were in either work or study within six months of graduation.
- Our curriculum supports the development of vital skills in analysis, group work, written and oral presentation, problem-solving and capabilities in time-management and personal confidence
- Teaching in sociology draws on current debates in the social sciences and in public and political life. Modules explore the contemporary issues that we face nationally and globally, allowing students to specialise in areas of interest with direct relevance to future employers, including: urban issues; media; crime; environmental challenges; political institutions; social change; work, and many more.
- Our degree programmes train students to become independent researchers who are able to plan, carry out, and present their own project. To support this, we offer invaluable training in social research skills, including survey methods, statistical analysis, qualitative interviewing, focus groups, observational methods, and critical textual and visual analysis.
Careers advice that works for you
The University’s multi-award winning Careers Service was ranked in the top 10 internationally in 2010 (International Student Barometer). Sociology students are able to take advantage of the excellent resources, support and connections provided by the university, including the ncl+ service. Careers advisers put our students in touch with volunteer mentors from the private and public sectors, assist with valuable work placements and offer helpful advice about possible career trajectories.
In year three, students in Sociology can take the careers service’s innovative Career Development module to get a real taste of the world of work to inform their future choices.
The Sociology personal development profile resource file has been specially designed to support students to manage their learning, develop their skills acquisition, and work out their career plans. Our pastoral support ensures that personal tutors are with students at every step.
Our degrees are endorsed by the University’s Graduate Skills Framework. Newcastle University works closely with key employers to define the graduate skills which, when added to a degree, will give students the skills they need in life beyond university.