Sociology Careers
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
- academic research
- policy research
- social work
If you would like a better sense of what previous Sociology students have done after their degree, you can browse through our graduate profiles
To find out more about the career pathways of our recent graduates, explore the latest Destination of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) statistics for BA Sociology and BA Politics and Sociology graduates.
Skills development
Our degree programmes give students the chance to develop the skills and knowledge they need to thrive in the world of work. 88% of 2014 graduates in Sociology were in either work or study within six months of graduation.
The curriculum supports the development of vital skills in:
- analysis
- group work
- written and oral presentation
- problem-solving
- time-management
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.
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 training in social research skills, including:
- survey methods
- statistical analysis
- qualitative interviewing
- focus groups
- observational methods
- critical textual and visual analysis
Careers advice
Sociology students are able to take advantage of the excellent careers resources, support and connections provided by the University, including the ncl+ service. Careers advisers assist with valuable work placements and offer helpful advice about possible career trajectories.
In year two, 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.
Our pastoral support ensures that personal tutors are with students at every step.
The 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. Our degrees are endorsed by the University’s Graduate Skills Framework.
In addition, please browse through some detailed career profiles of our graduates, who explain how we helped shaped their careers.