phd in psychology vs sociology

What Is The Difference Between Sociology And Psychology

Julia Simkus

Editor at Simply Psychology

BA (Hons) Psychology, Princeton University

Julia Simkus is a graduate of Princeton University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. She is currently studying for a Master's Degree in Counseling for Mental Health and Wellness in September 2023. Julia's research has been published in peer reviewed journals.

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Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Sociology and psychology are closely related disciplines that complement each other in understanding human behavior and social phenomena.

Psychology studies the mind of an individual to understand human behavior and social and emotional reactions. In contrast, sociology looks beyond individuals and studies society, social behavior, and social institutions.

Sociology provides a broader perspective by examining the influence of social structures, cultural norms, and societal factors on individuals and groups. It investigates how social interactions, institutions, and systems shape behavior, beliefs, and identities.

Psychology focuses on the individual level, studying the internal processes, cognitive functioning, emotions, and motivations that drive behavior. It explores how individual experiences, personality traits, and mental processes contribute to social interactions and influence societal outcomes.

Both disciplines share a common interest in understanding human behavior, albeit from different angles. They often intersect in areas such as social psychology , which explores the interplay between individual psychology and social influences, and in studying topics like group dynamics, social cognition, and identity formation.

Differences Between Psychology and Sociology

• Psychology is the study of the emotions and behavior of an individual whereas sociologists look beyond the individual to examine societal institutions and groups of people.
• Psychologists typically need to pass a test to become licensed, while sociologists have no licensing requirements.
• Psychologists can diagnose and treat mental health disorders whereas sociologists cannot.
• Psychologists must understand basic medical science, such as the biological processes of the brain, whereas sociologists must have a strong understanding of social theory and public policy.
• Sociologists tend to work in social work, social justice, and social services while psychologists are usually better equipped to work in human resources, health clinics, or counseling.

Similarities Between Psychology and Sociology

• Both psychology and sociology are social sciences that involve the study of human thought processes and behaviors.
• Both fields are concerned with improving people’s lives and bettering society.
• Both professions utilize communication, interpersonal, analytical, research, listening, observational, and problem-solving skills.
• Both psychology and sociology degrees are versatile and can lead to a wide range of career opportunities.

What is Psychology?

According to the American Psychological Association, psychology is the scientific study of the mind and behavior of individual people. Psychologists aim to understand the mental processes behind the behavior of individuals, or groups.

They study the mind, how it works, and how it affects behavior. Psychologists focus on social and emotional factors like anger, intelligence, aging, anxiety, depression, and stress.

What You Study in Psychology

Psychologists look into the cognitive and emotional processes of individuals and try to understand how they influence human behavior.

Coursework in psychology might include topics such as human development, psychopathology, statistics, mental illness, and personality.

Psychologists are involved in research such as cognition, attention, emotion, brain functioning, motivation, and perception.

There are a number of specific disciplines within the field of psychology that students can study including behavioral neuroscience, clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, quantitative psychology, and abnormal psychology.

Career Paths in Psychology

Similarly, there is a plethora of potential careers that someone with a psychology degree can pursue.

Psychologists can work in outpatient facilities or offices, either as an individual practitioner in a private practice or as part of a group practice.

They can also work in hospitals, health clinics, schools and universities, sports teams, rehabilitation centers, or for large corporations as organizational psychologists.

While many psychologists are involved in some kind of therapeutic role, such as  practicing psychotherapy in clinical, counseling, or school settings, other psychologists conduct scientific research in academic settings on a variety of topics relating to mental processes and behavior.

What is Sociology?

Sociology is a social science that studies human social relationships and institutions. Sociology looks past individual differences to examine groups of people – families, nations, companies, communities, etc.

Sociologists strive to understand how human action and consciousness are shaped by surrounding cultural and social structures.

Sociologists are concerned with people’s reactions to certain physical characteristics and how these reactions affect individuals in society.

Sociology’s subject matter can range from the social causes and consequences of love, racial and gender identity, family conflict, aging, poverty, crime, and religious faith to phenomena such as population growth and migration, war and peace, and economic development.

What You Study in Sociology

Sociologists try to answer questions about current social issues and learn about the ways diverse communities interact with each other.

Coursework in sociology might focus on globalization, race and ethnicity, diversity and inequality, methods of research, and social problems.

The research methods sociologists use are varied but include conducting large-scale surveys, interpreting historical documents, analyzing census data, studying video-taped interactions, interviewing participants of groups, or conducting laboratory experiments.

Students learn to think critically about human social life and know how to help others understand the way the social world works.

Career Paths in Sociology

Careers in sociology are essentially limitless. Sociologists can be employed by research institutes, criminal justice systems, public health and welfare organizations, private businesses, law firms, international agencies, medical centers, educational institutions, advertising firms, and more.

They often work as social researchers, case workers, paralegals, public relations workers, administrators, community organizers, public policy researchers, or data analysts.

According to the American Sociological Association, about a quarter of those with a bachelor’s degree in sociology work in social services, as either counselors or psychologists.

Prout, T. (2021, June 24). Sociology vs. psychology. National University. Retrieved from https://www.nu.edu/resources/sociology-vs-psychology/

Saint Leo University. (2015, December 17). Psychology vs. sociology: What’s the difference? Saint Leo University. Retrieved from https://www.saintleo.edu/blog/online-psychology-degree-vs.-sociology-what-s-the-difference-infographic

University of North Carolina. (n.d.). What is sociology? Department of Sociology. Retrieved from https://sociology.unc.edu/undergraduate-program/sociology-major/what-is-sociology/

What is the difference between ethnomethodology and sociology?

Sociology encompasses broad studies of social interactions and structures, including the symbolic interactionism framework that focuses on interpersonal symbols and meanings.

Ethnomethodology , a subset of sociology, specifically examines the daily methods people use to perceive and construct social reality, diverging from broader sociological analyses.

Sociology vs. Psychology: Differences, Degrees, & Careers

In social sciences, two disciplines—sociology and psychology—often intertwine yet maintain distinct identities. In this article, you will explore their differences, the degrees they offer, and the diverse careers they can lead to.

Both majors are a mirror image of each other. There’s no definitive answer to say that one is superior to the other. Each has its own areas of expertise. But if you earn a bachelor’s degree in either of the majors, you can pretty much pursue their careers interchangeably.

However, the real distinction starts to emerge as you begin pursuing advanced studies and roles. That’s what you’re going to learn further in this article. 

Sociology vs. Psychology

What is Sociology?

Sociology is the study of how societies work, focusing on relationships and interactions among people, groups, and societal institutions. It involves studying social structures (e.g., families, schools, governments), behaviors, and issues (e.g., crime, poverty, discrimination).

What is Psychology?

Psychology is the science of how our brain influences our actions. It helps us understand human behavior, from how our brain works to how society affects us. It uses this understanding to help with mental problems in everyday life, like work, school, or home.

Related: How Long Does it Take to Get a Psychology Degree?

Psychology and sociology are interconnected fields of social science. 

Sociology is about studying society and how people behave in groups. It examines how social rules, culture, and community affect people and groups.

On the other hand, psychology is about studying the human mind and how it affects a person’s actions. It looks at things like thoughts, feelings, and what motivates us.

What is Social Psychology? How is it Different from Sociology?

Social psychology is about understanding how others shape a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. It looks at how people’s minds affect their behavior in social situations, often focusing on group behavior.

Sociology and social psychology both study human behavior, but they focus on different aspects. Sociology looks at society as a whole, while social psychology looks at individuals within society.

What is Social Work?

Social work is about helping people and communities to better their lives. It deals with meeting basic needs and improving life quality.

Social workers assist those dealing with life problems or who are socially disadvantaged. They can work directly with people or focus on improving social conditions and promoting fairness.

Social work is closely tied to social sciences like sociology, psychology, economics, and political science. These fields provide the theories and research that help social workers understand complex social issues.

For instance,

• Psychology helps social workers understand individual behavior and mental health.
• Sociology offers insights into social structures and issues like poverty and inequality.
• Economics aids in understanding how economic factors affect social issues.
• Political science helps understand the role of policy and government in social issues.

In essence, social work is an applied social science. 

Related: How Does Human Services Differ from Social Work?

Degrees: Sociology vs. Psychology

While psychology focuses on the individual level, sociology looks at the broader picture of society and social structures. Both fields complement each other in understanding human behavior and social phenomena.

If you have a bachelor’s degree in either of these fields, you can choose to pursue one of the following graduate degrees:

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master’s in Social Work
• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• MA in Strategic Communications & Public Relations (SCPR)
• Master of Science in Healthcare Management
• Master of Public Administration (MPA)
• Master of Science in Business Analytics
• Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational (I-O) Psychology

Related: Should I Get a Master’s in Industrial Organizational Psychology?

As you read along, you’ll learn about the different degree options available to you across undergraduate and graduate programs in both majors, so you can make an informed choice for your career. 

Sociology Degrees

Are you curious about the world around you, how it functions as a whole, and how groups interact with each other? Sociology is the study of finding the patterns and characteristics that govern groups, cultures, and how societies impact people.

The key skill you will learn while studying sociology is being able to think critically, evaluate, and make inferences that help the greater good of our communities. If you’re still hooked, check out the following degree options in sociology:

Associate Degree in Sociology

If you’re looking to jump into the job market ASAP, an associate of arts (AA) in sociology is a great fit for you. Many of these programs are available online, making them convenient for those who are working at the same time.

Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology

You can choose to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sociology either in liberal arts or science discipline. A bachelor of arts degree is more focused on the humanities and liberal arts aspects of sociology, while a bachelor’s of science degree is more focused on data collection and analysis. 

If you intend to pursue an advanced degree—like a master’s or a doctorate—and a career in sociology, selecting a bachelor of science is an excellent choice. However, if you are not sure about your career goals, a bachelor of arts degree is a more flexible option.

During your bachelor’s program, you’ll study the basics of sociology, social inequality, research methodologies, social psychology, and much more. You don’t necessarily have to become a sociologist but the fundamentals of your bachelor’s degree provide you with transferable skills that are applicable across a wide variety of industries and roles.

Master’s Degree in Sociology

A master’s degree in sociology can prepare you for a career in teaching, research, policy-making, management, and many other related fields. Pursuing a doctorate program is also an option if you wish to become a sociologist.

You can choose to pursue your master’s degree in either liberal arts or science discipline, similar to pursuing an undergraduate degree in sociology. A master’s program is designed to help you learn statistics and data analysis, research methods using surveys and interviews, advanced sociological theories,  critical social issues, and much more.

If you have a knack for numbers and data analysis, here’s a guide to help you become a data analyst .

During your master’s program, you can specialize in various subjects, including but not limited to: 

• Criminology and deviance
• Social inequality and social class
• Gender and race/ethnicity
• Urban sociology and environment
• Education, and health

As part of your syllabus, you can choose to complete a thesis, research project, literature review, or case study for your final project.

A bachelor’s degree from any background is eligible to pursue a master’s degree in sociology. However, specific admission requirements may vary, so please check with your college.

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology

At the PhD level, you can specialize in criminal justice, political economy, and other related subjects in addition to sociology. The coursework includes advanced courses in sociological theory, research methods, and data analysis. 

You will also be required to complete a dissertation project, which involves original research on a topic of your choice. This project typically takes several years to complete and requires you to demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research and contribute to the field of sociology.

If you have a bachelor’s degree in sociology and are committed to professional studies, you can choose to skip your master’s degree and pursue a doctoral degree in sociology through certain degree programs.

Related: Master’s Degree vs. PhD Degree: What Is The Difference?

Psychology Degrees

According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics , a psychology major is indeed a popular choice among students compared to sociology. The reasons are multi-faceted, some are:

• A degree in psychology opens up doors to a wide range of career possibilities across clinical and non-clinical roles in psychology and other fields. 
• Psychology helps you understand your own behavior and personality on a much deeper level. It’s always a tool for improved communication.
• Similar to a sociology major, students study psychology for its application to the human element of work.

NOTE: In many states, using ‘psychologist’ in your title or practicing psychology as a profession requires a license. As long as you don’t pursue any clinical role, you can study psychology for its application across various industries.

More Info: 9 Types of Psychology Degrees

Careers: Sociology vs. Psychology

When you consider careers in psychology or sociology, you might typically picture roles like psychiatrists or sociologists. But the reality is that these fields offer a whole lot more. Majoring in psychology or sociology equips you with skills that are transferable across a broad range of industries.

For instance, in marketing, studying any one of these majors can help you understand customer behavior and craft successful advertising campaigns. In human resources, you can improve employee satisfaction and ramp up productivity.

Both sociology and psychology degrees can open doors to a wide range of career paths, excluding certain clinical professions that may require specific qualifications. The curriculum of these two majors often overlap and complement each other, providing you with a broad skill set that can be applied to various job markets.

Let’s explore various career paths for sociology and psychology majors. 

Careers in Sociology

A sociology major equips you with a skill set that’s in high demand by employers. Sociology expands your perspective, allowing you to understand the bigger picture and make informed decisions. 

These skills are in demand across various industries, increasing your employability in today’s job market. Apart from some occupations that may require a master’s degree and/or certification to work, here are some rewarding career choices for a sociology major:

Community Health Worker

Health workers help people in specific communities to improve their health and well-being. They do this by providing education, support, and outreach services. Their average salary is $59,766 per year.

Criminologist

Criminologists study criminal behavior to understand why it happens and how to prevent it. They analyze crime patterns, conduct research, and develop strategies for crime prevention. Their average salary is $59,459 per year.

Related: What is Criminology? What Do Criminologists Really Do?

Demographer

Demographers study population dynamics to understand how populations change over time. They look at birth and death rates, migration patterns, and demographic trends to provide insights into population structure and changes. Their average salary is $72,563 per year.

Public Policy Analyst

Public policy analysts examine and evaluate government policies to provide insights and recommendations to improve public programs and services. Their average salary is $64,387 per year.

Survey Researcher

Survey researchers design and conduct surveys to gather data on various topics, opinions, and behaviors. They analyze survey results to provide insights into trends and preferences. Their average salary is $60,410 per year.

Extension Service Specialist

Extension service specialists work in agricultural or community outreach programs to provide expertise and education to farmers, communities, or other target groups. Their average salary is $64,559 per year.

Parole or Probation Officer

Parole or probation officers work with individuals who have been released from incarceration to ensure they comply with the conditions of their release. They help provide support and supervision to help individuals reintegrate into society. Their average salary is $63,478 per year.

Careers in Psychology

A psychology major can work across a broad range of fields such as healthcare, education, social work, business, human resources, marketing, legal, non-profit, government agencies, and many other work areas. 

Moreover, digital mental health services are on the rise, where you can provide therapy and counseling services online. Likewise, roles in user experience (UX) design and market research also benefit from a solid understanding of human behavior, making you a competitive candidate among your peers.

You can choose to work in a clinical setting or a non-clinical one, depending on your preparedness and career approach. Apart from some occupations that may require a master’s degree and/or certification to work, here are some rewarding career choices for a psychology major:

School Counselor

School counselors provide academic, personal, and social support to students. They assist with academic planning, career development, and address emotional or behavioral issues to promote overall well-being of students. Their average salary is $67,723 per year.

NOTE: You need a master’s degree in school counseling and a state licensure to work as a school counselor.

Correctional Treatment Specialist

Correctional treatment specialists work within the criminal justice system to assess and develop rehabilitation plans for individuals in correctional facilities. They focus on helping offenders address underlying issues and develop skills to reintegrate into society. Their average salary is $59,860 per year.

NOTE: You typically need rehabilitation counselor certification to work as a correctional treatment specialist.

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists handle communication between an organization and the public. They craft press releases, organize events, and use various media channels to create and maintain a positive image for their clients and build public relationships. Their average salary is $59,653 per year.

Forensic Psychologist

Forensic psychologists apply psychological principles to legal and criminal justice matters. They assess individuals involved in legal cases, providing insights into their mental state, behavior, or motivations. Their average salary is $78,869 per year.

NOTE: You need to pursue a master’s degree in forensic psychology approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and a minimum of three years of supervised practice or HCPC-accredited doctoral programme.

Social Worker

Social workers assist individuals and families facing challenges such as poverty, abuse, or mental health issues. They provide support, connect clients with resources, and advocate for their well-being. Their average salary is $54,034 per year.

NOTE: You need state licensure to work as a social worker.

Case Worker

Case workers manage and coordinate social services for individuals or families in need. They assess client needs, develop care plans, and connect clients with appropriate resources, such as healthcare, housing, or financial assistance. Their average salary is $71,991 per year.

NOTE: You need state licensure to work as a case worker.

HR Representative

A human resources representative manages employee relations, facilitates communication between staff and management, addresses employee issues, oversees onboarding and offboarding, and ensures adherence to company policies. Their average salary is $63,290 per year.

Why Should You Pursue Social Sciences?

Social sciences, often overshadowed by STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) majors, are vital in understanding our cultures, societies, and ecosystems of the world.

Studying social sciences is like holding up a mirror to society. It clues us in on why people behave the way they do. They allow us to see how science and technology affect society, ensuring these changes are helpful and just.

Before You Go: How to Pay for College Without Loans

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is psychology a social science.

Yes, psychology is typically seen as a social science because it helps you study human behavior and mental processes, which are shaped by social constructs and interactions.

What is a key difference between psychology and sociology?

Psychology examines how individuals behave based on their mental processes, while sociology looks at how groups act, with a focus on societal patterns and influences.

How is sociology different from other social sciences?

Sociology offers a wider view, looking at how social structures and cultural norms impact individuals and groups. It’s different from other social sciences that concentrate on specific facets of society.

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Ph.D. Program

Grad student, Tamkinat Rauf, with Sociologist, William Julius Wilson, at a CASBS event. Image credit: Jerry Wang, courtesy of CASBS at Stanford

The Ph.D. program is defined by a commitment to highly analytical sociology

The program trains graduate students to use a range of methods – quantitative and qualitative – and data – survey, administrative, experimental, interview, direct observation, and more – to answer pressing empirical questions and to advance important theoretical and policy debates.

The Ph.D. curriculum and degree requirements provide students with the methodological skills, substantive knowledge, and mentorship to make important and impactful contributions to sociological knowledge. The program guides Ph.D. students to work on ambitious, independent research projects about which students are passionate. Graduates finish the program well-positioned to be leaders in the field of sociology.

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Home / Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs / Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree Online / Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology Resources / Difference Between Sociology and Social Psychology

Understanding Behavior in Society: The Difference Between Sociology and Social Psychology Understanding Behavior in Society: The Difference Between Sociology and Social Psychology Understanding Behavior in Society: The Difference Between Sociology and Social Psychology

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Humans move through life navigating societal norms, cultural influences, and other variables that impact both individual behavior and society at large. Sociologists and social psychologists are two types of professionals who investigate our lives, behaviors, and thoughts, as well as how these elements play out in social groups.

In each profession, experts use their findings to understand group behavior and develop solutions to the complex challenges facing individuals, communities, and organizations. By observing, describing, and measuring social behaviors and situations, sociologists and social psychologists gain an understanding of human behavior and broad trends. Continue reading to find out more about the differences between sociology and social psychology and how to step into one of these exciting professions.

Sociology Overview

Sociologists study civilization and the social behavior of people, groups, and cultures. Sociology covers everything from how strangers passing one another on the street interact to how global conflict plays out. Sociologists observe religious, political, and economic groups, examining their far-reaching effects on society, as well as the impact they may have on individual lives.

Using qualitative and quantitative research methods, sociologists can predict, for example, the potential impact of new laws or policies on a specific demographic. Their research informs lawmakers as they formulate public policy or social workers as they navigate public health problems.

Sociology Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the employment of sociologists to increase by 9% between 2018 and 2028, which is faster than the projected average growth for all occupations (5%). For their important contributions to human understanding, which are applicable in economics, psychology, and other social sciences, sociologists earn a median average annual salary of $82,050, according to the BLS.

Social Psychology Overview

Social psychologists study how individuals think about, relate to, and influence one another.

They also study how interactions between people can affect a wide range of issues, such as romantic attraction, friendship, and conflict. They may examine whether a person behaves a certain way due to their personality or environment, why certain social groups experience high levels of conflict, or what makes a couple more likely to stay together.

Leveraging both basic and applied research methods in their study, social psychologists conduct research on individuals and social groups. Basic research focuses on fundamental human nature by asking questions about people’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. A researcher might explore what causes us to fall in love, or what inspires people to build friendships or enter into conflicts. Applied research tends to focus on a specific niche of human life, such as business, health, or education. Social psychologists can employ the insights gained from research to improve an aspect of life. For example, a professional in this field might design a program to help reduce conflict in the classroom.

Social Psychology Job Outlook

The BLS projects the overall employment of psychologists to grow 14% from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations (5%). While the BLS does not keep specific data for social psychologists, the average psychologist in any specialty earns a median annual salary of $79,010. Pay can vary with education, location, and industry.

Similarities Between Sociology and Social Psychology

Both sociology and social psychology are fields of study that examine aspects of human behavior, such as how humans think and behave in different situations and times. Professionals can step into an entry-level job in either field with just a bachelor’s degree, but it is more common for sociologists and social psychologists to hold a master’s degree or doctorate, especially if they would like those exact job titles. With a graduate-level education, these experts can conduct research or teach in higher education.

Differences Between Sociology and Social Psychology

Although there are similarities between sociology and social psychology, there are notable differences, too. The differences between sociology and social psychology have largely to do with the focus of their study and research and the educational paths required.

Area of Study

Sociologists focus on society as a whole or large groups within society. They study patterns of behavior and how they shape the world around us. For example, if they’re researching religious organizations’ impact, they may examine whether a concentration of churches in a neighborhood has any effect on crime, income, or education.

In contrast, social psychologists focus on individuals and how social factors impact behavior. For example, a sociologist may study the spending patterns of an entire population during a recession, whereas a social psychologist might examine how an individual handles stress, anxiety, or mental health during that same time of economic decline.

Educational Path

Earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology offers students career opportunities in areas such as public health, senior services, data management, nonprofit management, and academic leadership. Students completing a bachelor’s in sociology can tailor their coursework to specific interests and career goals, such as criminology, social justice, and social work. Sociology offers two types of master’s degree programs: traditional programs and applied, clinical, and professional programs. A traditional program prepares students to pursue a PhD. An applied, clinical, and professional program prepares students to enter the workforce and perform sociological research.

Social psychologists often begin their academic careers by studying psychology or sociology at the bachelor’s level. They typically go on to earn a master’s degree in psychology; however, it is important to note that psychologists in clinical practice must have a license. Most research psychology positions require a doctoral degree. Students may choose to complete a PhD in psychology, which requires a comprehensive exam and a dissertation based on original research.

Typical Career Path

Sociologists can use their expertise to initiate change in areas such as public health, senior services, data management, nonprofit management, and academic leadership. A bachelor’s in sociology can equip students with the skills needed for a diverse range of job opportunities in human, social, and community services.

Social psychologists have a unique understanding of human behavior, combined with extensive training in research methods. Many work as instructors or researchers in universities and colleges, across departments such as psychology, business, political science, health sciences, and education. Others are employed as consultants, researchers, political strategists, marketing directors, or other related roles in the private sector. Social psychologists may also work in government and nonprofit organizations, helping to design and evaluate public policies and programs.

Sociology vs. Social Psychology: Which Is Right for You?

Sociology and social psychology are ideal fields for students interested in studying people. Although there is some overlap, there are many differences between sociology and social psychology, such as areas of study, educational paths, and career trajectories. Those interested in studying people at the individual level may consider pursuing social psychology. Students who want to develop a broad social perspective, as well as have the flexibility to select a concentration and tailor research projects to serve society, should consider a degree in sociology.

Maryville University’s  online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology  gives you options, as the curriculum covers a broad range of topics, such as community responsibility, mental illness, human sexuality, race, ethnicity, and crime. Discover how honing the right skills can help you find your path in the exciting field of sociology or social psychology.

Recommended Reading

The Future of Psychology: New Methods for Helping People

What Do Sociologists Do? Explore the Dynamics of This Rewarding Profession

American Psychological Association, Pursuing a Career in Social Psychology

American Sociological Association, What Is Sociology?

Science Daily, Social Psychology

Simply Psychology, Social Psychology

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Psychologists

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Sociologists

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College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Department of Sociology

Ph.d. in sociology.

UConn’s Ph.D. in Sociology trains students to scientifically analyze culture, human interactions, and social relationships. Graduates pursue careers in academia, research, government, and industry, where they work on important topics that impact our society.

The Department of Sociology offers a Master of Arts (MA) and a Doctorate of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Sociology. Most students enter with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and obtain the MA in Sociology in the first two years of the program, then proceed to the Ph.D.

Students who are admitted with the MA in Sociology from another institution will typically finish the Ph.D. program in a shorter time. Students entering with graduate degrees in disciplines other than Sociology must fulfill the requirements of both the MA and Ph.D.

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Degree Requirements

Below are the general requirements for the Sociology MA/Ph.D. degree, consistent with the Graduate School policies in the Graduate Catalog . For more detailed information please see the Graduate Handbook.

MA/Ph.D. Track

Students entering the Ph.D. program without a Master of Arts in Sociology (with completed thesis) must complete additional requirements to earn a Master's degree before completing the requirements for the Ph.D. in Sociology. It is expected that most students will complete the MA degree in two years.

In Sociology, students follow the Plan A (thesis) requirements for the Master's degree and continue into the Ph.D. program. Students only enroll in the Plan B (non-thesis) program if they will be discontinuing from the MA/Ph.D. program.

See the Registrar's Steps to a Successful Graduation with a Master's Degree  for full information regarding required timelines and paperwork.

Courses and Credits for the MA

The Master’s degree in Sociology requires a minimum of 39 credits in Sociology, including the following:

• SOCI 5001 & 5002 Proseminar (year long, 3 credits)
• SOCI 5201 The Logic of Social Research (3 credits)
• SOCI 5203 Quantitative Methods I (3 credits)
• SOCI 5231 Qualitative Methods I (3 credits)
• SOCI 5251 Core Theorists (3 credits)
• GRAD 5950 Master’s Thesis Research (9 credits)
• Plus 15 additional credits in Sociology

MA Plan of Study

The Master’s plan of study should be filed by the end of the fourth week of the student’s final semester before the degree is completed. Make sure to count only 39 Sociology credits toward the Master’s Degree. Additional credits can be carried forward to the Ph.D. program.

Credits for 6203 and 6231 should not be included on the MA Plan of Study and will carry forward to the Ph.D. program. Students that decide to take both SOCI 6203 & SOCI 6231 in the same semester of their second year will need to take an additional elective in the Spring of the second year.

To complete a Master’s thesis, students need to have their Master’s thesis research plan approved by their Advisory Committee. Students in consultation with their Advisory Committee may be asked to hold a Master’s thesis proposal defense, but a formal proposal defense is not required of a Master’s thesis. All students who complete a Master’s thesis must pass a formal Master’s thesis defense. Students are expected to complete the Master’s thesis ideally by the end of their fourth semester in the program.

Plan B (non-thesis)

Students who do not wish to continue in the program may elect to complete the Plan B option. In addition to completion of the coursework outlined above, students must also submit a portfolio of their scholarly work. The portfolio should consist of a minimum of 3 papers, each at least 15 pages in length, that together illustrate a command of sociological theory, research methods, and at least one substantive area. The scholarly work may originate from:

• Formal course requirements, such as research papers that demonstrate competency in one or more of the areas outlined above. Students are urged to pursue with their Advisory Committee the appropriateness of course related submissions
• Research or writing done in an independent study
• Non-course related accomplishments, such as grant proposals or conference presentations

In all cases, any written material that is co-authored is not eligible for submission as part of the student’s portfolio. The portfolio should be designed in consultation with the major advisor and will be evaluated by the student’s three-person advisory committee. Please note, students who choose this option cannot continue into the PhD portion of the program and thus the election of this option is only advised for students seeking a terminal Master’s degree.

Please note that Plan B students do not receive thesis credits. These students must take additional elective classes to attain the 39 total credits necessary for the Plan B Master's.

Ph.D. Track

Once the MA is completed, the Ph.D. typically requires an additional four years to complete. Students entering the Ph.D. program with a MA in Sociology, with a completed thesis, may be required to complete additional coursework to cover equivalent material as students who attained their degrees at UConn.

See the Registrar's Steps to a Successful Graduation with a Doctoral Degree for full information regarding required timelines and paperwork.

Courses and Credits for the Ph.D.

• SOCI 6203 Quantitative Methods II (3credits)
• SOCI 6231 Qualitative Methods II (3 credits)
• 12 credits of Sociology elective seminars
• 15 credits of GRAD 6950 Doctoral Dissertation Research

Major Advisor and Advisory Committee

All students in the graduate program must have a Major Advisor who is a tenured or tenure track member of the Sociology Department and the UConn Graduate Faculty. The Major Advisor should be selected by mutual consent between the student and the faculty member based on similarity of interests and/or availability of the faculty member. The Major Advisor serves as a mentor to the student, Chair of the Master’s Thesis Committee, General (Area) Exam Committee, and Dissertation Committee. The Director of Graduate Studies will facilitate the selection of an initial Major Advisor for students entering the program. Students may change the Major Advisors if it becomes apparent that another faculty member is more suitable. In such cases, appropriate forms must be filed with the Graduate School to make the change official. By the start of their second year in the program, all students should have an Advisory Committee of at least three members, the composition of which is described in the paragraph below. The Advisory Committee serves as the student’s Master’s Thesis Committee.

The members of the Advisory Committee are also chosen by mutual consent of the student and the faculty members. The Advisory Committee consists of two faculty members in addition to the Major Advisor. In cases where the student forms a three-person Advisory Committee, all three must be members of the Sociology Department or affiliated members of the Sociology Department. All members of the three-person Advisory Committee must be members of the UConn Graduate Faculty. In cases where the student forms an Advisory Committee of more than three faculty members, these faculty must meet the same requirements, except that a fourth and fifth member may also be: a) a faculty member from another UConn department who is a member of the Graduate Faculty, b) a faculty member from another university who receives approval from the Graduate School.

Most students constitute an Advisory Committee of only three members during the M.A. portion of the program and increase the Advisory Committee to four or five persons during the PhD portion of the program . The decision about the size of the Advisory Committee is at the discretion of the student in consultation with the Advisor and other members of the Advisory Committee. Students may change members of their Advisory Committees if other faculty are more suitable and are willing to serve. When a change is made to the Advisory Committee, appropriate paperwork should be filed.

Ph.D. Plan of Study

The Ph.D. plan of study should be submitted when no more than 18 credits of coursework toward the degree have been completed. Forms should be filed with the Registrar’s Office. The Plan of Study should reflect all content coursework and research credits (GRAD 6950). Please note that students who completed more than 39 credits before filing for their MA degree should include the excess credits on the Ph.D. Plan of Study.

Ph.D. General Exam

The General Exam must be taken after all Sociology coursework for the Ph.D. is completed (including removal of all incompletes), unless there is unanimous consent by the General Exam Committee that it can occur earlier. The General Exam is designed to demonstrate mastery over at least one area, of sociological expertise, but two areas is more typical. The Exam should be considered a “bridge” between coursework and the dissertation. It is designed to go beyond previous coursework that a student has taken, and to be broader than a dissertation-specific topic. The breadth of the General Exam should dovetail with that of an ASA section or the intersection of two ASA sections .

The reading list for the General Exam will be tailored to the student’s interests within the area and will be determined by a process of negotiation between the student and the members of the General Exam Committee. Those faculty members with greater expertise in the area will typically have greater influence in shaping the reading list, but all committee members must approve the list before the exam can be scheduled.

The General Exam shall have both a written and oral component. It is important to simultaneously schedule both the written and the oral components. Students will have two weeks to complete the written portion. The written portion is take-home, with open book and open notes. Students will typically respond to at least three questions designed to emphasize a broad understanding of theory, methods, and substantive areas. Faculty have leeway as to how they ask questions and what choices students have in answering questions. Student responses must be 40 pages or less (not counting references).

The oral portion of the General Exam must be completed within one week of turning in the written portion. During the oral portion, committee members may probe answers that seem insufficient, ask about questions the student did not choose to answer, or raise anything else within the parameters of the reading list. There can be no feedback from committee members to the student between the written and oral portions, except for questions of clarification.

The written and oral portions shall be assigned a single grade of either “Pass” or “Fail.” A grade of “Pass” requires a positive vote of at least four members of the General Exam Committee. There is no grade of “Partial Pass” and there is no provision for retaking just a portion of the General Exam.

If the student fails the General Exam, they may schedule a second opportunity to take it within six months of failing the first exam. The student may constitute a new General Exam Committee for the second exam, but ordinarily this is not advisable. If the student fails the exam a second time, or does not complete it within six months, this is grounds for dismissal from the graduate program.

Dissertation Proposal

According to Graduate School rules, the Dissertation Committee must consist of five faculty members. If the student’s Advisory Committee has less than five members, then the student must ask additional faculty members to be present at the dissertation defense as members of the Dissertation Committee. A fourth and fifth member may also be:

• a faculty member in Sociology who is a member of the Graduate Faculty
• a faculty member from another UConn department who is a member of the Graduate Faculty
• a faculty member from another university who receives approval by the Graduate School. These additional members do not have voting status on passing the dissertation, but they must sign the paperwork required to indicate they were present at the defense.

The decision to approve the dissertation is made by those members of the Dissertation Committee who are also members of the student’s Advisory Committee. Approval of the dissertation is thus determined by a majority of faculty on the Advisory Committee voting to approve the dissertation. A majority is defined as 2-1 in the case of a three-person Advisory Committee, 3-1 in the case of a four-person Advisory Committee, and 3-2 in the case of a five-person Advisory Committee.

Final Semester

Student's should complete these steps to prep for graduation in their final semester:

• Apply to Graduate in the Student Administration System by the  fourth week of the semester . This application can be withdrawn at any time by the student if needed.
• Check name and addresses
• Prepare for oral defense (two weeks prior)
• Submit final paperwork (deadline published on Academic Calendar )
• Submit dissertation
• Check email to confirm progress of steps to graduation

See the Registrar's Steps to a Successful Graduation for the Doctoral Degree for full details regarding degree conferral.

Applications are due by January 5.

Prospective students may apply to the program online via the Graduate School’s website.

Full Admissions Requirements

For more information about the Ph.D. in Sociology, please contact:

Jeremy Pais

Sociology Careers vs. Psychology Careers: Similarities and Differences

What are the differences between sociology careers and psychology careers? Saint Leo explains the specific roles within these two related fields.

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• Career Advice
• Applied Psychology
• Career Advancement

When deciding on a career, one of the first things to consider is your areas of interest. If you've always enjoyed working on or with computers, for instance, you might enjoy computer programming or coding, graphic design, or computer repair.

Or maybe you've always had a passion for animals. In this case, working as a veterinarian, zoologist, animal trainer, or animal control officer may be more appealing to you.

But what happens if your interests involve people and how they think, feel, behave, and interact? If this sounds like you, both sociology careers and psychology careers should be on your short list.

Similarities in Sociology and Psychology Careers

It's not uncommon to have some confusion about sociology and psychology careers, and rightfully so. Both of these fields require a certain level of understanding about what motivates people to act a certain way or factors that cause them to develop specific behaviors or patterns.

Both professions can also be found working in similar, humanitarian-based businesses and organizations. If you walk into a mental health clinic, for instance, you may find both sociology and psychology majors working side by side.

Another similarity between sociology careers and psychology careers is, within each one, you can choose to work directly with people or you can decide to be on the research side of things and study others from afar. So, how are these two career paths different?

Sociology and Psychology Career Differences

The main difference between sociology and psychology is that sociology involves the study and understanding of society (or collective groups of people), whereas psychology focuses more on the individual person. Because of this difference, individuals working within these fields must have education and training in different areas.

For example, sociology majors need to learn more about social theory, social policy, and other aspects of social thoughts and interaction to better understand why people act the way they do when involved in certain groups.

Conversely, individuals working in psychology must develop a greater comprehension of factors that impact an individual's cognitive and emotional growth and status. This involves studying environmental, biological, chemical, and a variety of other impacts.

Career Options in Each

The great thing about both sociology and psychology is that each one offers a variety of career options. So, regardless of which one you choose, you have a host of career paths you can ultimately take. Let's start with sociology careers first.

Sociology Career Options

According to the American Sociological Association (ASA), a majority of sociology grads work in the social services or act as counselors. Some are even working as psychologists, which shows just how closely these two career tracks are related.

The ASA adds that many other individuals with degrees in sociology are also employed as teachers and librarians, in sales and marketing positions, or as researchers in the field. Essentially, any position that benefits from a greater understanding of the factors that somehow impact groups of people can be held by a sociology major.

What else can you do with this type of degree? Here are a few titles people are able to hold when choosing a sociology career path:

• Guidance counselor
• Social caseworker
• Policy or program analyst
• Public relations specialist
• Market research analyst
• Health facilities evaluator
• Public education coordinator
• Health statistician or planner
• Social service agency administrator

Psychology Careers to Consider

Again, psychology careers are different in that individuals who follow these types of career paths typically work more one-on-one with others to help identify their own individual issues, providing guidance in how to overcome them so they can live a higher quality of life. Not that sociology majors can't work one-on-one with others as well, but this is psychology's primary focus.

So what can you do with a degree in this field? Some psychology careers to consider include:

• Youth worker
• Special agent
• Correctional officer
• Probation or parole officer
• Childcare worker
• Art therapist
• Career counselor
• Psychologist

Saint Leo University Offers Both Sociology and Psychology Degree Programs

Whether you feel more compelled to work in sociology or psychology is the field that piques your interest most, Saint Leo University offers degree programs in both.

Our Bachelor of Arts in Sociology is a 120-credit hour program that provides students the option of specializing in clinical/applied sociology or diversity and equality, and our Bachelor of Arts in Psychology —which is also 120 credit hours—offers the ability to specialize in clinical/counseling, developmental psychology, or experimental psychology.

If either of these could help you reach your career-related goals, contact Saint Leo University today to learn more.

Greg Lindberg See more from this author

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Our faculty encourages you to become a creative independent researcher. During your graduate career, you will read broadly across fields and generate work that is theoretically, empirically, and analytically rigorous. The program provides advanced training in quantitative and qualitative research methods as well as mixed methods.

Students in the program have conducted research on a variety of projects, including investigating food insecurity in Atlanta, the social effects of climate change, and community policing in a public housing project.

The program has an excellent placement record with graduates securing faculty positions at institutions such as Stanford University, Yale School of Management, Harvard Business School, University of Chicago, and University of Toronto. Others have gone on to non-academic careers at organizations such as The Urban Institute, Abt Associates, and Facebook.

Related Programs

Students considering the PhD program in sociology may also be interested in the PhD programs in Sociology and Social Policy or Organizational Behavior , both of which are offered jointly with the Department of Sociology . Students who wish to apply to one of these programs in addition to the PhD program in sociology may do so.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Sociology and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Sociology .

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and should be a term paper, senior thesis, master’s essay, or similar written work. Citations and references are not included in the page limit.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Required

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Sociology

See list of Sociology faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

BU Today feature: What’s the Difference Between the Majors?

• By: Matthew Dineen
• March 26, 2024

Sociology major Sofia Marin (CGS’22, CAS’24) represented our department in BU Today talking with a Psychology student about how their majors differ from each other.

“I became more politically involved and realized that I was really interested in looking at how institutions affect things on a macro level,” Marin says. “And there were such niche topics that I could take, and the course load really just interested me.”

The full article and accompanying video of their conversation about the differences between Sociology and Psychology is available here.

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