The presence of a sociologist in various work settings is as desirable as possible, yet this role is not particularly valued. To attempt to clear this fog and take a step toward effective career guidance for Sociology graduates, it seemed useful to begin by defining certain work contexts and considering, on the one hand, the concrete possibilities that exist and, on the other, the potential that this role can have in a given context. Today, let's try to understand where a sociologist fits into the educational landscape, and, therefore, what could a sociologist teach in training contexts?

Index

A unique but under-exploited potential

Let's start from the assumption that, first and foremost, he is a figure capable of integrating theoretical knowledge, analytical skills, and planning abilities, making a significant contribution to both direct teaching and educational planning. But let's take a closer look.

From a formal-potential point of view , the graduate in Sociology can access the teaching of various subjects within secondary schools, in line with their academic path and with the competitive classes provided for by the school system , and therefore, almost always integrating many exams.

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The immediate field that comes to mind is that of the human sciences , especially in the homonymous "high schools"... and yet, it is not that simple.

Teaching qualification courses for sociologist in schools

To teach in public schools, those with a degree in sociology must follow the qualifying pathways established by current legislation . These include:

The exclusive competition classes of interest to Sociologists today are:

  • A-65 Communication theory and technique: The class that can be accessed directly with the master's degree in sociology, precisely with at least 12 credits in the scientific disciplinary sector SPS/08 (it is literally impossible not to have these exams in the path since they are all basic exams, such as "general sociology" or "history of sociology" etc etc); It qualified to teach only Communication theory in the second two-year period and fifth year of Technical Institutes (Technological sector, Graphics and Communications major).
  • A-18 Philosophy and Human Sciences: For this class, the LM-88 (Sociology and Social Research) and a high number of credits in philosophical, pedagogical, psychological, and sociological disciplines are required. Specifically, one is considered qualified for the class with at least 96 credits in the scientific disciplinary sectors M-FIL, M STO; M-PED, M-PSI, and SPS of which 24 are among: M-FIL/01, M-FIL/02, M-FIL/03 or 04 M-FIL/06 or 07 or 08, M-STO/05 24 are among: M-PED/01, M-PED/02, M-PED/04 24 are among: M-PSI/01, M-PSI/02, M-PSI/04, M-PSI/05 or 06 24 are among: SPS /07, SPS/08, SPS/09, SPS/11, SPS12; This allows the teaching of the above-mentioned subjects at high schools for the humanities and LES (economic-social sciences), art, linguistic, musical and choreographic high schools, scientific high schools (Applied Sciences option) and technical and professional institutes (but only specific specializations).
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How to consult the requirements

Furthermore, precisely because of its versatility, a degree in sociology is usually not a complete degree. For example, you might not major in "sports sociology" or "media sociology" because you didn't choose them as majors or... they weren't even included in your curriculum! Therefore, ongoing training is essential , not only to "maintain certification" and "update skills" in a constantly evolving education system, but also because the world of work changes, and our knowledge changes with it.

IMPORTANT: To effectively access teaching, it is essential to constantly monitor competition announcements and ministerial requirements, which are frequently updated; to verify that you possess the required credits (CFU) in anthropological, legal, pedagogical, and didactic disciplines; and to supplement your education with specific university courses in teaching. To do all this:

  • I will consult sites like Classidiconcorso.it e FLC CGIL For detailed information on each competition class, please check the specific requirements for your degree (old or new system).
  • It is essential to check your study plan to ensure you have the required academic credits (CFU) for each class. 

The Sociologist in Professional Training

In addition to "direct teaching," sociologists can play a key role in educational support and planning (if they have training and work experience in educational settings) or work in tandem with pedagogues and psychologists. They can therefore participate in public tenders issued by schools, or offer their services as freelancers for regional training courses (for example, GOL and FORMATEMP), depending on their knowledge and experience.

Francesco D'Ambrosio

For example, if I have a degree in sociology, have passed a couple of exams in the field of education, and/or have completed an internship or have some experience in mentoring and work-based learning in educational settings, I can apply for guidance, teaching support, and similar roles while waiting to specialize and expand my career path through master's degrees and specialized courses (or even another degree, as I did).

The Sociologist can therefore be both a freelance teacher for private training institutions such as training agencies, and a collaborator (through a specific call for applications issued by the school) for school teachers in the design of educational paths that integrate:

  • social analysis of school contexts;
  • intercultural education;
  • conflict management and prevention;
  • fight against bullying and cyberbullying;
  • promoting inclusion and school well-being.

Through thematic laboratories and workshops (but also PON courses and similar, for example) , Sociologists can work on communication, social relations, participation, digital citizenship, and awareness of the relevant socio-environmental and cultural contexts.

It all depends on the skills you have when applying for a job and what's required. For those looking for their first job, the advice is to seek out and focus on (and pinch yourself a little) training and professional development internships, as they generally don't require previous experience.

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