What’s the Difference Between Social Work and Sociology for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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You are planning your education and career path, and since you are very interested in social sciences, some say you should take sociology. In contrast, others say social work fits you better. So you are hounded by the question: what’s the difference between social work and sociology?

Social work and sociology are two fields often confused with each other, but they are distinct disciplines with different objectives, methods, and paths, albeit with overlaps (Shaw, 2020). The former helps individuals and communities to enhance their well-being and deal with various social issues. The latter studies human society and its various aspects, including social interactions, culture, and social structures. Understanding the difference between career, salary, practice, and education in social work and sociology is essential when deciding your path.

Our experts scoured various studies to put together this article that aims to help you understand these two disciplines and ultimately decide which path to take. We’ll cover social work vs sociology education, career paths, job outlooks, salaries, and studies.

What’s the Difference Between Social Work and Sociology Table of Contents

1. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Career Paths
2. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Job Outlook
3. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Research
4. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Theories
5. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Methods or Practice
6. Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Education
7. How does program accreditation impact your career outcomes?
8. What Are the Long-Term Financial Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Social Work?
9. What Future Trends Are Impacting Social Work and Sociology?
10. What Are the Benefits of Pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work?
11. Are advanced standing MSW programs worth pursuing?
12. What key skills are essential for success in social work vs. sociology?
13. Balancing Costs and Accessibility in Educational Options for Social Sciences
14. Social Work vs. Sociology: Career Advancement Opportunities
15. Job Satisfaction and Long-Term Career Growth in Social Work vs. Sociology
16. How can you transition into a career in social work or sociology?

As the demand for social workers and sociologists increases, expect these two disciplines to continue to overlap in terms of methods and practice (BLS, 2022b, 2022a). There has been a historical connection between social work and sociology, but the two fields’ ideas and practices have grown differently. Sociology is about understanding social structures and the larger social context. Social work is about helping people and communities solve issues (Shaw, 2020). Nevertheless, the two seem to interlace.

Shaw (2020), in his paper “Social work and sociology/sociology and social work: Peering back and forth," published in Qualitative Social Work, says that “there have been social workers whose practice—and writing about practice—has manifested a form we can understand as sociological social work." He, therefore, suggests exploring “intervention practices founded on a ‘translated’ set of parallels between social work practice and qualitative research methods," pointing out that social work and sociology have some things in common. Still, their approaches are different, and there is a need for the two fields to work together more.

Cauševic and Pandžic (2022), meanwhile, suggest an interdisciplinary approach to studying society using sociology and social work. They explore the challenges to demarcating the two fields and emphasize the inseparability of social work and sociology in understanding various areas of society.

People can expect social workers and sociologists to work together to make a better society. Still, it is natural for students to ask, “What is the main difference between sociology and social work?" If you have yet to decide on an education path, this question is worth looking into.

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Career Paths

Investigations or research regarding social issues is what you will experience in sociology vs social work careers, which is more immersive and help people solve and cope with everyday problems.

In the latest report of Data USA, over 700,000 social workers are active in the country. Zippia estimates that over 100,000 are licensed. The same Zippia report reveals private companies employ most social workers, while a couple is with the government. They assist people in getting the help they need, learn about available options, and make informed decisions to live a life of improved mental, emotional, and physical health with their families and communities.

The United States, however, is home to more than 3 million sociologists. According to Zippia, almost all of them are involved in some way with teaching. This shouldn’t surprise you; after all, sociology is the study of social groups and how people interact. Examining communities, institutions, and interactions, sociologists use research methods to delve into topics like social inequality, social change, and social movements.

What career paths can social workers take?

Social workers can specialize in helping children and families, conduct research in the field, or work in different types of counseling jobs. See our related post on hospital social worker salary and career options.

Some students opt to focus on psychology, even forensic psychology. Other common career choices are listed below, along with an estimate of typical earnings:

Mental health and substance abuse social worker

Individuals and families who deal with mental health and substance abuse issues can get help from these specialists. You can typically locate them in clinical settings, private practices, and hospitals.

Median salary: $49,130

School social worker

Helping students and their families cope with academic, emotional, and social difficulties is the focus of these professionals, who offer various social services. They are also concerned with preventing issues like bullying and absenteeism.

Median salary: $49,150

Social work administrator

Professionals in this field plan and execute strategies, direct and evaluate employees, and ensure that clients receive high-quality social services.

Median salary: $73,850

Social work policy analyst

These experts examine existing social policies and programs and then suggest how those policies can be modified to better serve the public.

Median salary: $74,310

If you need more inspiration, you can check more careers in social work such as hospice social worker salary and career options.

What alternative career paths can social workers take?

We’ve established that most sociologists have some sort of connection to the academic world, but that doesn’t mean that only professorships are open to them. Here are some alternative careers open to sociologists, along with salary estimates:

Social science researcher

These professionals conduct studies on various social problems, drawing conclusions based on their findings through techniques like data collection and analysis. They might find employment in places like schools, governments, and labs.

Median salary: $83,230

Market research analyst

Experts in this field gather and analyze information about customers and markets to inform businesses’ choices in product design, pricing, and promotion. They could work in businesses, consultancies, or market research firms.

Median salary: $63,290

Public relations specialist

Professionals in this field build and sustain favorable public perceptions of businesses. They raise public awareness and support for their causes through a variety of channels of communication, including media relations, social media, and events. Companies, government agencies, and nonprofits are just some of the places they could work.

Median salary: $59,110

Human resources specialist

Specialists in this field are responsible for the entire employee life cycle, from sourcing candidates to facilitating their professional growth. Private businesses, public institutions, or charitable organizations could employ them.

Median salary: $61,150

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Job Outlook

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a 5% outlook, as fast as the average, for sociology vs social work jobs, which is expected to rise by 9%, faster than the average, in the next decade (BLS, 2022b, 2022a). This could perhaps very well make up for Zippia’s recorded unemployment rates of 3.18% and 2.98% for licensed social workers and sociology professors, respectively, in 2021. Read our related post on social work careers: geriatric social worker salary and career options.

Demand for social services is increasing as the population ages and more people deal with chronic health problems, contributing to social work’s positive job growth. However, the employment outlook for sociologists isn’t as bright as it is for other fields because many of the duties sociologists take on are also performed by economists, social workers, and psychologists.

Besides, as mentioned, the sociologist workforce is more than triple that of social workers, according to Data USA. New York has the highest concentration of healthcare social workers, whereas California is home to the most number of mental health and substance abuse social workers, child, family, and school social workers, other social workers, as well as sociologists (BLS, 2023d, 2023c, 2023b, 2023a, 2023e).

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Research

Both social work and sociology study human society and social behavior, although both fields use different theoretical and methodological approaches. Understanding the social world is the typical focus of sociology vs social work research, which usually centers on understanding and solving social problems.

Social work research helps create and assess programs to better the lives of people and their communities. Social workers may study the efficacy of various child abuse prevention or healthy aging initiatives. Meanwhile, sociologists research to determine what influences people’s social behavior and how society functions. They may investigate factors contributing to poverty or how online platforms influence face-to-face communication.

Research in the field of social work can include a study that found:

• Home visits for new moms reduced child maltreatment.
• Depression in the elderly can be alleviated with the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy.
• Low-income households can benefit greatly from a financial education program.

Examples of sociological research would be those that found:

• Living in poverty is linked to poor health, low levels of education, and criminal activity.
• The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships can be both positive and bad.
• Change in society is possible through the power of social movements.

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Theories

Theories focusing on understanding the social world are the type of sociology vs social work theories that typically concern understanding and solving social problems. Social work theories guide professionals in working with individuals, families, and communities. For example, they might use a theory of human development to understand the needs of a child who is struggling in school.

On the other hand, sociology theories explain how society works and identify the factors that influence social behavior. Sociologists could use the social inequality theory to explain why some groups of people are more likely to experience poverty than others.

Here are some examples of social work theories:

• Systems theory: useful in understanding how social problems affect people and communities, which this theory views as systems made up of interacting parts.
• Human development theory: describes the stages of growth and development that people go through from birth to death and attempts to understand the needs at life stages.
• Strengths-based perspective: focuses on people’s and society’s strengths and resources and is useful in assisting them in overcoming challenges.

Here are some sociology theories:

• Social inequality theory: explains why some groups of people are more likely to experience poverty, discrimination, and other social problems than others.
• Social change theory: explains how social change happens, helping understand how social problems like poverty can be solved.
• Social movements theory: explains how social movements emerge, grow, and decline, allowing comprehension of how social change can be brought about.

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Methods or Practice

The requirement for a license in sociology stands as a possible dividing line between the two fields. Licenses for social workers are necessary for the public’s safety, but sociologists are exempt from such regulations. Unlike social workers, sociologists do not work directly with clients. Licensed social workers must follow a code of ethics or face disciplinary action.

Social work licensing is important because it:

• ensures social workers are educated, trained, and experienced to deliver safe and effective services.
• ensures quality by requiring social workers to follow certain standards.
• promotes social work by establishing a professional identity and highlighting its value.
• gives social workers professional pride.
• boosts social worker careers.

Aside from practice, what’s the difference between social work and sociology in methods? First, let’s clarify that “research-based" is the best way to describe sociology vs social work methods, which would be more “practice-based." That said, the methods that these two disciplines require would differ significantly. Social workers are trained to be involved in their clients’ lives. They help clients through counseling, case management, and advocacy. Sociologists use surveys, interviews, and participant observation to study social groups, institutions, and interactions.

Let’s look at the methods and practice in detail:

• Counseling: helping individuals understand and cope with their problems; could be for an individual or a group, like a family.
• Case management: coordinating services and resources for individuals and families, helping them access the needed services and resources.
• Advocacy: speaking up for the rights of individuals and groups.

Here are examples of sociological methods or practices:

• Surveys: conducted with a targeted number of people representing a larger population; data is used to determine social attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, among others.
• Interviews: collecting data from fewer people and is used to gather details about people’s experiences, thoughts, and feelings.
• Participant observation: observing people in their natural settings and is used with social groups, institutions, and social interactions.

Social Work vs. Sociology: Difference in Education

According to Data USA, 37,747 individuals graduated from sociology vs social work degree graduates, which numbered 56,762 in the same year. While the total degrees earned differ significantly between the two disciplines, the tuition fees are not significantly different. The median in-state public tuition is $7,070, while out-of-state private tuition costs $37,390 for sociology vs social work courses, which would be at $7,070 and $31,450, respectively.

Start with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) if you want a social work job or sociology (BS) if you want to study sociology. According to Zippia, 59% of social workers have a bachelor’s degree, and 33% have a master’s. However, higher education in social work may experience a pay increase, but not hugely significant. All social workers, licensed or not, face this challenge.

In stark contrast, the salary disparity between sociology professors with and without this degree, for instance, averages about $20,000 per year, according to Zippia, and this is happening even with only 9% of them having doctorates.

With the end goal of helping people in need, students in social work programs may take classes in human development, social policy, and social work practice. In contrast, topics covered in introductory sociology courses often include social inequality, social change, and social movements.

The following credentials are available to social workers who wish to pursue subspecialties:

• Clinical Social Worker (CSW)
• National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Certification is not as common for sociologists, and that’s perhaps one notable aspect to look into when asking what’s the difference between social work and sociology. Nevertheless, note that one certification is worth acquiring for sociologists—the American Sociological Association (ASA).

How does program accreditation impact your career outcomes?

Accreditation provides a measurable standard of quality that can influence both licensure and employability in the fields of social work and sociology. Programs assessed by recognized accrediting bodies ensure that course content, fieldwork, and academic standards are aligned with industry requirements, thereby strengthening the eligibility of graduates for professional certifications and advanced career opportunities. Prospective students should verify that their chosen program meets these quality benchmarks to safeguard their investment in education and to optimize future job prospects. For those considering a clinical-focused route, exploring LCSW online programs offers insights into accredited pathways that adhere to professional standards.

What Are the Long-Term Financial Benefits of Earning a Master’s in Social Work?

Advanced degrees not only open doors to advanced roles but can also lead to significant long-term financial advantages. Evaluating the initial tuition investment against projected career earnings is crucial in determining overall return on investment. For example, reading our article How much does a masters in social work cost? enables prospective students to assess program affordability alongside potential salary growth. Additionally, opportunities such as debt reduction through scholarships and employer tuition reimbursement, combined with accelerated career pathways available through specialized MSW programs, contribute to enhanced lifetime earning potential. Meticulous financial planning and program research are essential steps in ensuring that the educational investment aligns with long-term career objectives.

What Future Trends Are Impacting Social Work and Sociology?

Recent developments in technology and data analytics are reshaping both social work and sociology. Digital research methods, including big data analysis and virtual ethnography, are creating new opportunities for sociologists to deepen their investigations into complex social phenomena. Concurrently, social work is increasingly adopting telehealth, remote intervention programs, and digital case management tools to improve service delivery and client engagement. The integration of artificial intelligence for predictive analysis and decision support is also emerging as a pivotal trend. Professionals can leverage these innovations to enhance practice and research while preparing for evolving industry demands, including specialized pathways such as careers with MSW.

What Are the Benefits of Pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work?

A doctoral degree in social work can open avenues for leadership, advanced research, and policy influence that extend beyond the scope of typical graduate programs. Earning a doctorate equips professionals with specialized skills that enhance their ability to design and evaluate innovative programs, secure higher-level administrative roles, and contribute authoritative insights to academic and public debates. Additionally, doctorate holders often experience increased professional credibility, which can facilitate cross-disciplinary collaborations and drive industry reforms. For professionals seeking a cost-effective pathway to advance their expertise, exploring affordable online doctorate programs in social work may provide significant long-term benefits.

Are advanced standing MSW programs worth pursuing?

Advanced standing MSW programs provide an accelerated pathway for professionals who already hold a bachelor’s degree in social work, significantly reducing both time and financial investment. These programs focus on intensive, practice-driven coursework that enables graduates to transition rapidly into advanced roles while maintaining rigorous academic standards. By streamlining the curriculum, candidates can reap a faster return on investment and meet the growing demands of modern social service environments. For a comprehensive comparison of options, refer to the top MSW advanced standing online programs available.

What key skills are essential for success in social work vs. sociology?

In social work, professionals must demonstrate strong interpersonal communication, effective crisis intervention, and ethical decision-making to address individual and community challenges. In contrast, sociologists rely on advanced research techniques, critical analysis, and data interpretation to identify and understand complex social patterns. Both fields require cultural competence, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the ability to engage with diverse populations. Developing these targeted skill sets not only enhances professional performance but also influences career outcomes and earning potential, as observed in insights from our article on the human services degree salary.

Balancing Costs and Accessibility in Educational Options for Social Sciences

Cost and accessibility often play significant roles when deciding between pursuing a degree in social work versus sociology. Understanding available educational opportunities and financial pathways can help students make informed choices that align with their long-term career aspirations.

For those aiming to enter sociology, the affordability of the chosen program is an essential consideration, especially since sociology degrees often lead to research-intensive roles that may demand further education. Students can explore programs tailored to their financial constraints or career needs by opting for an affordable online sociology degree. Leveraging such options can offer the academic foundation required without excessive financial burdens.

Similarly, advancements in online education make social work degrees more accessible to a broader range of students. Programs like Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) are increasingly available online, enabling individuals to balance work, personal commitments, and education. Scholarships, grants, and federal aid can further alleviate the costs associated with obtaining these degrees.

Ultimately, whether pursuing the path of sociology or social work, students should weigh the financial and logistical aspects of their educational journey. Thorough research into online programs and financial assistance options can ensure a smarter investment in their future careers.

Social Work vs. Sociology: Career Advancement Opportunities

Both social work and sociology offer pathways for professional growth, but their approaches differ based on career focus.

• Social Work: Professionals can advance by pursuing leadership or specialized roles in clinical practice, public welfare, or advocacy. Advanced degrees, such as an online PhD in social work, allow for deeper engagement in research, teaching, or policy reform.
• Sociology: Advancement often involves roles in academia, data analysis, or policy development. Doctoral degrees open doors to research or consultancy positions in government and private sectors.

By pursuing further education and specialization, professionals in both fields can achieve significant influence and impact within their communities and industries.

Job Satisfaction and Long-Term Career Growth in Social Work vs. Sociology

When considering a career in social work versus sociology, understanding the potential for job satisfaction and long-term career growth is crucial. Both fields offer meaningful and impactful work, but they come with different challenges, rewards, and trajectories.

Job Satisfaction in Social Work

Social workers often report high levels of job satisfaction due to the direct impact they have on individuals' lives. Whether it's helping a family overcome hardship or supporting a community through systemic change, the ability to create positive outcomes provides a strong sense of fulfillment. However, social work can also be emotionally challenging and stressful, especially in high-stakes environments like hospitals or child welfare services. The demand for social workers is growing rapidly, particularly in areas like mental health and addiction counseling. With ongoing advancements in online MSW programs, social workers can continue their education and advance to more senior positions without putting their careers on hold.

Long-Term Career Growth in Social Work

Social workers who wish to grow professionally have a variety of paths available, including leadership roles, policy work, and academic positions. Additionally, specialization in fields such as healthcare, school social work, or clinical social work can provide more opportunities for growth. Social workers can also earn higher salaries by pursuing advanced certifications and continuing education. For those seeking a fast track to leadership, 1-year MSW programs online offer an accelerated pathway to a master’s degree, allowing professionals to gain the necessary qualifications to move up the ladder quickly.

Job Satisfaction in Sociology

Sociologists generally enjoy high job satisfaction due to the intellectual nature of their work, which allows them to explore the complexities of society, culture, and behavior. Many sociologists find fulfillment in teaching, researching, and consulting for organizations that seek to address societal issues such as inequality, crime, and education. However, like social workers, sociologists may face challenges in securing funding for research projects or navigating bureaucratic structures within academia.

Long-Term Career Growth in Sociology

Career growth in sociology can take several forms, depending on whether individuals choose academia, government work, or private industry. Sociologists in academia have the opportunity for tenure-track positions and can become influential voices in policy and public discourse. Those in applied sociology roles, such as market research, urban planning, or criminal justice consulting, may also find opportunities for professional development and upward mobility. A degree in sociology provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing leadership roles or further education, such as a Ph.D.

While both fields provide rich opportunities for career development, social work may offer more immediate job satisfaction due to its hands-on nature, while sociology may provide longer-term intellectual fulfillment and flexibility in career choices.

For those interested in advancing their career quickly in social work, pursuing programs like 1 year MSW programs online no BSW can be a strategic way to gain advanced credentials and access higher-level roles in less time.

Switching to a career in social work or sociology can be a rewarding decision, but it requires strategic planning to align your education and experience with your desired role. Whether you hold a degree in a different field or are exploring alternative pathways, there are several steps to ensure a smooth transition.

How can you transition into a career in social work or sociology?

Switching to a career in social work or sociology can be a rewarding decision, but it requires strategic planning to align your education and experience with your desired role. Whether you hold a degree in a different field or are exploring alternative pathways, there are several steps to ensure a smooth transition.

1. Evaluate your current qualifications. If you have a background in psychology, education, or public health, you may already possess transferable skills that align with social work or sociology. Courses in statistics, research methods, and human behavior can provide a solid foundation for both fields.
2. Pursue relevant education. If you are transitioning to social work, enrolling in an accredited Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) program is the most direct path. For those with a non-social work undergraduate degree, an advanced standing Master of Social Work (MSW) can expedite the process. If cost is a concern, explore cheapest online BSW programs to find affordable options that fit your budget.
3. Gain hands-on experience. Internships, volunteer work, or entry-level jobs in social services, community outreach, or research roles can help build the practical skills necessary for both disciplines. Many social work programs require fieldwork, while sociology careers often benefit from research assistantships or data analysis roles.
4. Consider licensure and certification. For social work, most states require a license to practice, especially for clinical roles. Sociology careers may not have mandatory licensure, but certifications in data analysis, research methods, or social policy can enhance employability.
5. Network with professionals. Connecting with social workers and sociologists through professional organizations, LinkedIn, or local meetups can provide insights into career growth opportunities. Many universities also offer career counseling services that help students navigate their transition.

Deciding Between Social Work and Sociology 

We have, so far, answered your question: What is the difference between sociology and social work?

Now that you know this, however, how do you choose between these two academic majors? When deciding between social work and sociology, it’s important to consider the following:

• Your interests and values: Do you want to work directly with people to assist them in resolving issues and improving their lives? Or are you more interested in learning about the social world and how it works?
• Where you want to work: Do you want to work in a clinical setting, such as a hospital or a mental health clinic? Or would you rather work in a community setting, such as a school or a social service agency?
• Your personality: Are you a people person who likes to collaborate with others? Or do you prefer independent research?
• Your educational goals: Do you want a bachelor’s or a master’s degree?
• Your financial goals: Do you need a job that pays well? Or are you looking for a job that is both fulfilling and makes a difference in the world?

Exploring both fields and talking to people who work in each can help you decide which one is right for you. You can also observe a social worker or sociologist to learn more about these fields. If, on the other hand, you came to care more about learning and altering human behavior, you might be curious about behavioral psychology jobs.

Key Insights

• Distinct Focus Areas: Social work focuses on helping individuals, families, and communities solve problems and improve their well-being, while sociology aims to understand the broader social structures and interactions within societies.
• Different Career Paths: Social workers often engage directly with clients in various settings such as schools, hospitals, and private practices, whereas sociologists typically pursue careers in academia, research, and policy analysis.
• Job Growth and Demand: The job outlook for social workers is projected to grow by 9% from 2021 to 2031, driven by the increasing demand for social services. In contrast, the demand for sociologists is expected to grow at a slower rate of 5%, with many roles overlapping with other social sciences.
• Education and Licensing: Social work often requires licensure and adherence to a code of ethics, ensuring practitioners are qualified to provide safe and effective services. Sociology, on the other hand, generally does not require licensure but emphasizes advanced education and research skills.
• Research vs. Practice: Social work is more practice-oriented, involving direct client interaction and intervention strategies. Sociology is research-based, focusing on data collection and analysis to understand societal trends and behaviors.
• Theoretical Approaches: Social work theories guide practical solutions for individual and community issues, while sociological theories aim to explain societal functions and the factors influencing social behavior.

FAQ

1. What is the main difference between social work and sociology? Social work is focused on directly helping individuals, families, and communities to improve their well-being, while sociology studies the structures, interactions, and dynamics of societies as a whole.
2. What kind of education do I need to become a social worker? To become a social worker, you typically need a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. Licensure is also required for clinical social work positions.
3. What career opportunities are available with a degree in sociology? Sociology graduates can pursue careers in academia, research, policy analysis, market research, public relations, human resources, and social science research.
4. Do sociologists need to be licensed? No, sociologists do not typically need to be licensed. However, advanced degrees and certifications such as those from the American Sociological Association (ASA) can enhance career prospects.
5. How does the job outlook for social workers compare to that for sociologists? The job outlook for social workers is stronger, with a projected growth rate of 9% from 2021 to 2031. In contrast, the job growth for sociologists is projected at 5%, with many sociologists working in academia and research.
6. What are the primary methods used in social work and sociology? Social workers use methods such as counseling, case management, and advocacy, focusing on direct client interaction. Sociologists use research methods like surveys, interviews, and participant observation to study social behaviors and structures.
7. Can a sociology degree lead to a career in social work? While a sociology degree provides a strong foundation in understanding social issues, becoming a licensed social worker typically requires a degree in social work and meeting specific licensure requirements.
8. What are the typical salaries for social workers and sociologists? Social workers' salaries vary by specialization but generally range from $49,130 to $74,310 annually. Sociologists, particularly those in research or academia, can earn median salaries around $83,230 per year.
9. How do social work theories differ from sociological theories? Social work theories are designed to guide practical interventions and solutions for individuals and communities, whereas sociological theories aim to explain societal structures, functions, and behaviors.
10. Which discipline is right for me if I want to work directly with people? If you want to work directly with people to help solve their problems and improve their lives, social work is likely the better fit. If you are more interested in understanding how societies function and conducting research, sociology might be more suitable.

References:

• BLS. (2022a, September 8). Social Workers: Occupational Outlook Handbook:: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 6
• BLS. (2022b, September 8). Sociologists: Occupational Outlook Handbook:: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
• BLS. (2023a, April 25). Child, Family, and School Social Workers.
• BLS. (2023b, April 25). Healthcare Social Workers.
• BLS. (2023c, April 25). Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers.
• BLS. (2023d, April 25). Social Workers, All Other.
• BLS. (2023e, April 25). Sociologists.
• Cauševic, M., & Pandžic, A. (2022). Interdisciplinarity of Sociology and Social Work Experiences and Perspectives. Društvene i Humanisticke Studije (Online), 7(2(19)), 233248.
• Shaw, I. (2020). Social work and sociology/sociology and social work: Peering back and forth. Qualitative Social Work.