Graduate certificates are intended to develop your knowledge and skills in a subject area that is different to your first degree's major. You may be eligible if you haven't studied for a degree before if you can demonstrate an interest in the subject area and a satisfactory academic ability. By choosing to study a graduate certificate you can quickly develop career competency in a single subject area. A graduate certificate is a shorter version of a graduate diploma, is studied at undergraduate level, and can be completed in the equivalent of one semester of full-time study. Sociology Sociology at Waikato moves you beyond assumptions and explores who we are and our place in the world. You'll study human relationships and how societies form. Sociology at Waikato is highly respected and is a top 250 QS-rated subject. You'll explore how people organise and form groups, form larger social structures, and how societies evolve over time. As a budding sociologist, you'll be challenged to assume little in the hopes of clearing the way for new conclusions. You'll ask questions like how different groups view social reality and why certain views become accepted within groups over time. You'll dissect the interwoven nature and influence of parents, peers, elders, teachers and the media on society. We'll also challenge you to consider why some societies are war-torn while others remain peaceful – why some behaviour is acceptable while others are less desirable. You'll look for solutions and debate how societies change. Sociology at Waikato takes a thematic approach and includes papers in criminology, the family, popular culture and theoretical perspectives. As part of a degree in Sociology papers in social policy, women and gender studies and labour studies can be included. Teaching staff provide plenty of mentoring and direction along the way and allow students opportunities to throw out ideas in a relaxed and informal learning environment. Studying Sociology at Waikato will open your eyes to the inner workings of society and how people drive them. Career opportunities Heritage Presenter Iwi Development Officer Media or Social Commentator Social Analyst Social Researcher Youth or Social Service Worker