Sociology Careers

Updated on May 18, 2023

Online Bachlelor's in Public Relations Programs

Bachelors

Sociology professionals with a bachelor’s degree may work as market research analysts, public relations specialists, or social science research assistants. These professionals earn annual median salaries of $49,210-$65,810.

Masters

Master’s degree-holders may pursue careers in education, working as guidance counselors or high school teachers. These jobs pay annual median salaries of $58,120 and $62,870, respectively.

Doctorate

Ph.D. in sociology graduates often work as postsecondary teachers and professional sociologists. Median annual earnings for these professions fall into the $80,000-$86,000 range.

Some graduates work as researchers at government agencies or research institutes. Possible research jobs include statistician and survey researcher.

Career and Salary Outlook for a Sociology Degree

Sociological knowledge can support many interesting careers in diverse fields and contexts. Undergraduate degrees in sociology often lead to entry-level jobs with public sector organizations. Other sociology graduates pursue human resources or marketing careers.

Professionals with a graduate degree in sociology may work as researchers, social science professors, or social and community services managers. See below for three potential sociology degree jobs.

Human Resources Manager

Sociologists

Social and Community Service Managers

Career	Median Annual Salary	Projected Growth Rate (2019-2029)
Human Resources Manager	$121,220	6%
Sociologists	$86,110	4%
Social and Community Service Managers	$69,600	17%

Source: BLS

Certifications and Licensure for Sociology

Depending on their career aspirations, sociology degree-holders may benefit from professional certifications. These credentials verify possession of specialized skills in various roles, fields, and contexts. The Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology (AACS) offers certified applied sociology and certified clinical sociologist credentials. Sociology graduates pursuing social work careers often need state licensure.

Certified Applied Sociologist

AACS grants CAS certification to candidates with sociology-related graduate degrees, 1,500-3,000 hours of professional sociologist experience, and portfolios evidencing professional sociology competencies. Applicants submit reference letters, official transcripts, portfolios, and resumes.

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Certified Clinical Sociologist

CCS candidates demonstrate the same prerequisites and submit the same materials as CAS candidates. However, CCS applicants must prove that their work affects positive social change. CCS professionals usually perform more measurable clinical interventions, while CAS professionals typically focus on research that informs decision-making.

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Licensed Social Worker

Many state boards require social workers to obtain licensure. Credential titles and requirements vary by state, but licensure candidates usually need at least a bachelor’s in social work. Most candidates need 1,000-4,000 hours of work experience. Candidates must also pass the Association of Social Work Boards examination.

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Resources for Sociology Majors

American Sociological Association
Since 1905, this nonprofit professional organization has promoted sociological knowledge. The organization fosters diversity and comprehensive understanding by featuring 52 special interest sections. ASA supports sociology students professional development by offering education, career resources, and networking.

Blackwell Guide to Sociology Resources
This sociology research guide informs the diverse endeavors of many students, professionals, and organizations. In partnership with learned societies, Blackwell assists researchers in gathering, analyzing, and sharing valuable sociological information.

Contexts
This quarterly magazine shares new sociological research with a general readership. Contexts offers accessible articles, analyses, reviews, and photography. Sociology students benefit from exposure to current ideas and developments in the field.

International Visual Sociology Association
This academically oriented, nonprofit organization serves students and professionals from many disciplines. The IVSA publishes a journal, offers awards, runs an annual conference, and maintains an advisory committee for early career scholars.