Career Opportunities in Sociology

With regard to career opportunities, sociology is a tremendously varied field. Most professional sociologists design and conduct research, teach at the college level, and consult with organizations and communities. A major in sociology provides the knowledge and analytical skills needed to pursue professional degrees in business, law, medicine, education, or social work. It also provides background preparation for fields such as human resources, public administration, teaching, journalism, environmental studies, criminal justice, city planning, public relations, social service, and politics.

Sociologists with graduate degrees employed by colleges and universities teach and advise students, conduct research, and publish their work. Salaries can range from $45,000 to $100,000 or more for full professors. For sociologists entering the corporate world as directors of research, consultants, and project managers, salaries typically range from $35,000 to $120,000. For sociologists entering non-profit and government employment as policy analysts, human resource managers, and program managers, salaries typically range from $30,000 to $100,000.

See the 44-page report put out by the American Sociological Association Research and Development Department titled "What Can I Do with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology?" for more information about job opportunities in sociology.