Sociology is the study of societies in relation to history, culture and place, including the interaction between individuals and groups, as well as the norms, laws and social institutions that constitute a society. Applied sociology describes the use of sociological theories and methods outside of university for specific client groups and audiences. It is used in the active transformation of social life, by addressing ‘real world’ research questions, and by helping different public audiences to consider and adopt a sociological imagination.

The Sociology at Work website focuses on the application of sociological knowledge beyond university settings. We mean this literally – how do people use sociology in their jobs? To put it another way: how we ‘do’ sociology in the workplace? At the same time, we are also interested in the ways in which sociology might be used to work towards the positive transformation of society. 

Our aims are to:

• enhance awareness of applied sociology and to advance understanding and esteem of our discipline to wider audiences across the world;

• support the careers of sociology graduates at various levels (undergraduate and postgraduate), and to ensure that students better appreciate the various work opportunities available to them; For more information please see our Students page

• foster links to industry, non-government organisations, government agencies, and other professional groups in support of sociology as a vocation. For more information on our long-term projects please see our Internship page

This website is run by volunteers, currently from Australia, the UK and Portugal. This is a not-for-profit project that is free to use by anyone. We want it to evolve and grow as we reach all parts of the world. Please explore our site to find out more about us and how to contribute to Sociology At Work.

This website has been made possible by a grant by The Australian Sociological Association*.  Please visit: http://www.tasa.org.au

* The information provided on this site does not imply any official endorsement by The Australian Sociological Association or the opinions, ideas or information contained therein, nor guarantee the validity, completeness or utility of the information provided. Reference herein to any products, services, processes, hypertext links to third parties or other information does not necessarily constitute or imply endorsement, sponsorship or recommendation.