Social scientists study all aspects of society—from past events and achievements to human behavior and relationships between groups. Their research provides insights that help us understand different ways in which individuals and groups make decisions, exercise power, and respond to change. Through their studies and analyses, social scientists suggest solutions to social, business, personal, governmental, and environmental problems.

Research is a major activity for many social scientists. They use various methods to assemble facts and construct theories. Applied research usually is designed to produce information that will enable people to make better decisions or manage their affairs more effectively. Interviews and surveys are widely used to collect facts, opinions, or other information. Information collection takes many forms including living and working among the population being studied; field investigations, the analysis of historical records and documents; experiments with human or animal subjects in a laboratory; administration of standardized tests and questionnaires; and preparation and interpretation of maps and computer graphics.

The work of the major specialties in social science—other than psychologists, economists, and urban and regional planners—varies greatly, although, specialists in one field may find that their research overlaps work being conducted in another discipline.

Expanding opportunities exist for practicing sociologists, who apply sociological knowledge, theory and methods to affect interventions at the individual, group and community levels. Practicing sociologists, including clinical sociologists, work in business, government, social service and education, performing evaluations, counseling, substance abuse and prevention and treatment and economic and community development.

• For detailed career information, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook: www.bls.gov/oco.
• Click here to view curriculum guide

Educational Opportunities in Sociology at LCCC

Associate of Arts
The associate of arts is for students who want to pursue bachelor’s degrees in sociology by completing the first two or more years at LCCC. Students completing the associate of arts degree may transfer with junior (or higher) standing to the four-year university or college of their choice. The associate of arts program may be completed in two years, if taken on a full-time basis.

Other Educational Opportunities through LCCC’s University Partnership

Cleveland State University
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Many students decide to major in psychology because the CSU program prepares them to work with and help others in many different ways, from providing one-on-one, in-depth assistance to those who are suffering to conducting research into the causes of mental illness to understanding what motivates people to respond to written or oral communication. Individuals, couples, families, schools, businesses, and communities all seek and use psychological services.

Youngstown State University
Bachelor of Social Work
The baccalaureate degree with a major in social work prepares students for entry into beginning, generalist, professional social work practice. Social workers are employed in a variety of settings such as public and private welfare agencies, mental health centers, health care settings, educational systems, correctional institutions, and business and industry. The Social Work Program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. A baccalaureate degree in social work from an accredited degree program qualifies a person to apply for licensing in the state of Ohio. 

Master in Health and Human Services
Certificate in Health Care Management
The Certificate in Health Care Management is a collaborative program between the College of Health and Human Services and the Williamson College of Business Administration. The program accommodates students from health and human service professions who require the skills and abilities for supervisory/managerial positions or who desire competence in health promotion. After completion of an academic core of course work, students may concentrate in either health promotion or administration for health and human service professions.

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