Curriculum and labor market: Comparative analysis of the curricular outcomes of the study program in sociology at the Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade and the required competences in the labor market

During last several decades, sociological profession has faced serious challenges, both globally and locally. Within the context of labor market in Serbia these challenges, along with inadequate response of professional community; have resulted in the loss of professional monopoly for some job positions and roles. Once respected experts, sociologists, have lost professional monopoly on jobs recognized and affirmed by: (a) state, governmental and independent institutions; (b) business organizations; (c) civil society organizations; and (d) international organizations, all of which employ sociologists with diplomas received from universities in the Republic of Serbia. Although examples for this are numerous, we will limit the analysis to three case studies regarding professional positions of: (1) sociology teacher; (2) researcher in market research industry; and (3) employees of various international organizations. Analysis will use several different sources of empirical data: (a) various legislation and by-laws, especially rules on employment requirements (in state, public, and individual organizations); (b) job advertisements, where we will analyze required competencies for particular positions; and (c) current curriculums for BA and MA studies of sociology on the Department of Sociology Faculty of Philosophy University of Belgrade, where we will analyze provided professional competencies. Analysis will attempt to answer the question if there is a gap between professional competencies provided by study programs and those required of sociologists in the labor market. If the gap exists, we will provide potential solutions on the way in which it can be bridged and position of sociologists on labor market in Serbia improved.