Why Do Engineering Students Need Sociology?

By Pallavi N B

If you’re an engineering student and are wondering, why should I study anything except engineering? How will this be helpful for me? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. I’m here to tell you why as an engineering student, you need to study Sociology and how it’s important for your career.??

In our world where technology is advancing at a rapid pace, interacting with people is just as important as interacting with machines and therefore learning about our society, surroundings, and the people around us becomes just as important. Therefore, understanding sociology will not only help us understand our society and grow our knowledge but also help us be better empathisers at work.?

To be adaptable??

Sociology is the study of the development, structure and functioning of human society. By understanding the society you’re working for, you will be able to anticipate better the problems that society faces and effectively come up with solutions for them. For example, if you’re a civil engineer and you’re building a house in India, you will make provisions to include a jet spray or a hand-held shower accompanying the WC in the bathroom because those are common in India, but you might not do the same for houses in the US. This type of understanding can only be learnt from Sociology.??

Sociology’s role in engineering is about anticipating problems, responding appropriately, making sure all concerns are addressed, and understanding the demographics. Therefore, the study of Sociology can help engineers adapt to different settings, situations, and surroundings.??

Sociology is for everybody??

Sociology is a large subject and has a place for everybody. Since it is the study of human society and our lives, there is always something you will relate to and find interesting. The content you will learn is so applicable to everybody’s lives that you will automatically feel engaged with the subject and content.??

Interdisciplinary education gives you not only a broad education but also an education that helps you think beyond just your subject expertise, making you a well-rounded thinker and empathiser. Of late, this has been a wildly sought-after skill by recruiters and companies. Therefore, studying Sociology helps you become a better person and a better worker and gives you an edge over other applicants in job selections!?