An urban sociologist researches the role of sociology and human interaction in urban settings, as well as trends and phenomena. A researcher in this field, like other sociologists, studies the interactions, trends, and characteristics of groups of people and human institutions in various settings, as well as how different cultures interact with one another. For example, an urban sociologist might investigate the impact of increased technology, such as computers and cell phones, on interpersonal communication in a city setting. Aside from conducting original research, a sociologist in this field might compare and contrast previous urban sociology research studies and consider the implications.
To become an urban sociologist, one must complete a substantial amount of education and training. While some sociologists work with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in sociology, earning a doctorate in sociology is ideal for someone entering the field of sociology in a specialized field. To specialize in urban sociology, a student may choose to complete a dissertation, which is a detailed research study, on a topic related to the field. Aside from learning about the complexities of sociology, someone aspiring to be an urban sociologist would need to learn a lot about statistical analysis and quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods research, which are all used in sociological research. An urban sociologist should be enthusiastic about the subject and believe that the research he or she conducts will benefit and benefit humanity.
Urban sociologists work in similar conditions to other researchers. They may be used by universities, governments, businesses, and non-profit organizations. They likely would have an office and also would be expected to conduct fieldwork. Some urban sociologists conduct research, teach urban sociology theories and methods, present their findings, and publish the results of their research in professional journals or other publications.
An urban sociologist might conduct research on how different subcultures develop and emerge in a city. Another possible study topic for an urban sociologist would be the effects of deinstitutionalization of the mentally ill on the criminal justice system and nonprofit mental health organizations, with the goal of informing the public and influencing policy and law. Another possible topic is how religious and moral beliefs differ and manifest in different ways in urban and rural settings. An urban sociologist may choose to study or be directed to study a variety of topics by the organization for which he or she works.