Study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations. May study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members.
SOC: 19-3041.00
Common Job Titles
Demographer
Medical Sociologist
Social Scientist
Sociologist
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeAnalyze social phenomena and group behavior patterns using quantitative and qualitative research methodologies in academic or applied settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign sociological research studies to investigate the origin, growth, and influence of social institutions and organizations.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate the influence of social, religious, political, and business organizations on individual members by synthesizing theoretical frameworks with empirical evidence.
Advanced
KnowledgeDevelop theoretical models explaining the formation and dynamics of social groups integrating knowledge from sociology, anthropology, psychology, and history.
Advanced
KnowledgeCompose scholarly articles, research reports, and policy briefs communicating sociological findings to academic and public audiences.
Advanced
KnowledgeInterpret complex statistical analyses and sociological data for diverse audiences including policymakers, academic peers, and community stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply advanced statistical software and data visualization tools to process and analyze large datasets on social behavior and institutional patterns.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess the validity and reliability of sociological research methodologies when evaluating compliance with ethical standards and scientific rigor.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate cultural sensitivity with empirical research practices when studying diverse populations and social communities.
Proficient
MindsetEngage interdisciplinary teams and community partners to establish collaborative relationships that support social research objectives.
Proficient
KnowledgeInstruct students and colleagues in sociological theory and research methods in academic settings using evidence-based teaching strategies.
Proficient
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Sociologists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
2,950
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $60,710. 25th percentile: U.S. $78,150. 50th percentile: U.S. $101,690. 75th percentile: U.S. $134,780. 90th percentile: U.S. $168,590. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$60,710
10% of workers earn the following or more
$168,590
Workers on average earn
$111,670
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Sociology and Anthropology5.0/5
English Language4.6/5
Education and Training4.2/5
Mathematics3.5/5
History and Archeology3.4/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
