Sociology Careers
Studying Sociology provides students with the knowledge and abilities to apply technical skills necessary to pursue a career in the following areas:
- Anthropologists and Archeologists
- Economists
- Historians
- Mathematicians and Statisticians
- Political Scientists
- Postsecondary Teachers
- Psychologists
- Sociologists
- Social Workers
- Survey Researchers
- Urban and Regional Planners
Sociologists Career Video
American Sociological Association Career Center Job Search
Occupational Outlook Handbook Summary - Sociologists
Summary
What Sociologists Do
Sociologists study society and social behavior by examining the groups, cultures, social institutions, and processes that develop when people interact and work together.
Work Environment
Sociologists usually work in an office setting, although they may work elsewhere when conducting research or presenting results. Most sociologists work full time.
How to Become a Sociologist
Sociologists typically need at least a master’s degree to enter the occupation.
Pay
The median annual wage for sociologists was $101,690 in May 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of sociologists is projected to grow 4 percent from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 300 openings for sociologists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for sociologists.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of sociologists with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about sociologists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.
Suggested citation:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Sociologists,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/sociologists.htm (visited September 24, 2025).
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- JobsNowHouston Showcases in-demand occupations and the accelerated certificate and education pathways offered at HCC to obtain these jobs. The goal of this page is to easily connect you with to relevant programs and certifications that will get you back to work fast."
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- O*NET OnLine O*NET OnLine (Occupational Information Network) is administered and sponsored by the US Department of Labor's Employment and Training Administration.
- Occupational Outlook Handbook Occupational Outlook Handbook is from the US Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. This online, searchable version of the OOH contains information on training, education, expected growth, conditions, and more for a wide array of careers.