Overview of Sociology and Anthropology
Sociology is the study of groups of people and their interactions and shared behaviors. It focuses on the connections between individuals and society, how people form social bonds, and how society influences cultures. Anthropology is the study of the various cultures of the world. It examines the common technologies, language, and beliefs that make up a particular group, and the changes that come with contact with other cultures.
Career Opportunities Associated with Sociology and Anthropology
The knowledge and skills gained through majoring in Sociology or Anthropology can be applied to a variety of careers. These fields are valuable for research, social science, government policy, teaching, and counseling. Some specific examples include sociologist, research analyst, urban planner, demographer, history professor, social worker, psychologist, and health educator.
Internship and Co-op Opportunities
Many colleges and universities offer internships and co-ops related to sociology and anthropology. For example, students may learn more about marketing research or anthropology by working with a marketing firm, or work with an NGO to gain experience in international marginalization or globalization. Internships and co-ops are an excellent way to gain practical experience in the fields of sociology and anthropology.
Specialized Tracks or Concentrations
There are several specialized tracks or concentrations available across sociology and anthropology, including: cultural anthropology, economic anthropology, political anthropology, medical anthropology, gender studies, urban studies, media studies, and development studies. Students may also specialize in a region of the world, such as Latin America or the Middle East.
How Sociology and Anthropology Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education
Sociology and Anthropology provides students with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for success in any graduate or professional education program. Students gain an extensive understanding of research methods, data analysis techniques, and the ability to interpret, diagnose, and deal with social issues and challenges. In addition, students learn the fundamentals of cultural diversity, including cross-cultural relations, cultural values, and humanistic approaches.
Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Sociology and Anthropology
Artificial intelligence has huge potential to revolutionize sociology and anthropology. AI can be used to track trends and patterns within social networks and track changing social behaviors. AI can also be used to monitor and analyze large data sets and uncover patterns not visible to the human eye. AI is also used to automate many administrative tasks within a research project and can even be used to predict how a population or culture will respond to a given situation.
The Career Outlook for Sociology and Anthropology
The career outlook for sociology and anthropology is very positive. Employment in the field is expected to grow steadily over the next decade, with particular growth in the areas of public policy, healthcare, urban development, and market research. Additionally, those with a specialization in applied anthropology can find a variety of roles in consulting, non-profits, and government research, among other areas.
Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Sociology and Anthropology:
- College of Staten Island CUNY, Salary: $29,091
- Denison University, Salary: $28,362
- Valdosta State University, Salary: $26,899
- University of Puget Sound, Salary: $24,431
- Southern Oregon University, Salary: $23,321
- St Olaf College, Salary: $19,528
For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology.

