Sociologists study human society, social behavior, and institutions. Their job involves researching social trends, conducting surveys and interviews, analyzing data, and publishing findings. They examine social problems, patterns, and relationships to understand how societies function and change over time. Sociologists may work in academia, government, non-profits, or private sectors, contributing to policy development, education, and social justice initiatives.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $68,960.00 |
25th percentile | $88,380.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $99,500.00 |
75th percentile | $114,260.00 |
90th percentile | $164,600.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $33.15 |
25th percentile | $42.49 |
median (50th percentile) | $47.84 |
75th percentile | $54.93 |
90th percentile | $79.13 |
To become a sociologist, individuals typically need a master's or Ph.D. in sociology or a related field. While some entry-level positions may accept candidates with a bachelor's degree, advanced roles and research positions often require a graduate-level education. High school completion is necessary to pursue higher education, but specific high school courses are not mandatory for becoming a sociologist. In terms of typical training for sociologists, it involves coursework in statistics, research methods, theory, and specialization in areas like criminology, urban sociology, or medical sociology. Training also includes hands-on research experience, data analysis, and writing skills development, often culminating in a thesis or dissertation project showcasing original research in the field. Sociologists may also benefit from internships, teaching assistantships, or research assistant positions to gain practical experience.