The science of sociology is a discipline which concerns social organizations and social problems in society.
Sociologists study almost all aspects of social phenomenon in society:
Among the many topics and themes of sociology studies are Small groups, characteristics of complex bureaucratic structures (companies, hospitals, schools, etc.), patterns of behavior in everyday life, changing functions of the institution of family, coping strategies people find in their lives
Those who major in sociology will be able to systematize, understand, and analyze complex social phenomena; play an important part in the flow of work in an organization; manage processes regarding conflict resolution; hold a holistic viewpoint of social institutions as well as society; and produce objective analyses of social phenomena using scientific research principles.
To achieve these, they are able to use critical thinking instead of a value laden or spontaneous outlook.
Being ‘critical’ does not mean denigrating every phenomenon by taking a negative view, on the contrary, it means enlightening visible and invisible phenomena using scientific and rational principles.
Therefore an important objective of this department is to provide opportunities for students which are both theoretically and methodologically enriching.
In the past century, transformations in institutions such as family, religion, education, and science, as well as in social processes related to politics, technology, culture, and economy have re-emphasized the significance of the discipline of sociology.
Sociological knowledge depends on important conceptual terminology by which we can understand relationships between social institutions, the nature of society – nature relationship, new life practices which emerged during the process of the transition of agrarian communities into the industrial society, the impact of political power on our lives, and the relationships between family and communities. Through sociological language/discourse, it is possible to define social problems we observe in society. Accordingly, as described below, sociologists can be employed in various roles, as educators, managers, researchers, and consultants.
Izmir University of Economics, Department of Sociology aims to provide the analytical tools for students to increase their understanding of themselves well as social phenomena.
Students who choose to become the members of the Department of Sociology will benefit from gaining the skills and interests required by the globalized world. This is achieved through the instruction language (English), the structure of courses based on universal criteria and approaches, the strong background of academicians, the wide range of opportunities for students, and the lessons and syllabi, which are designed to develop analytical skills.
Sociology graduates have prospects of employment in different departments of the following (public/private) institutitons and organizations
State Planning Agency
Turkish Statistical Agency
Institution of Social Work and Child Protection Agency
Family Research Institution
The Ministry of Family and Social Policies (Consultancy of Family)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Justice (Prisons, The Branch for Improving Child Care Education, Probation Office)
The Ministry of Agriculture
Project Regional Development Administration, South-eastern Anatolia
Youth Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Centres
Municipalities
Offices of Governorships
Development Agencies
(National /International)Foundations and Associations
National / International Organizations (UN, FAO, ILO, WHO, Foundation for Turkish Economic and Social Studies)
Marketing Research Companies
Companies and Organizations specializing in media, PR and advertising, marketing, research and development, and corporate communications
In addition, those who aim to pursue an academic career can apply for a graduate program (M.A. and Ph.D.)
