Earning Potential with a Sociology Degree
The salary you can earn with a sociology degree depends on the level of degree you receive and the job title you have. In general, the educational level has a large impact on your earnings. More education generally leads to a higher income. You’re also more likely to receive a full-time job, larger benefit packages, and more chances to advance in your career.
Potential Salaries with a Sociology Degree
According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage of sociologists was $72,360 in May 2010. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $44,000, and the top 10 percent earned more than $129,870.
Typically students entering the job market with a BA in sociology can expect to earn approximately $35,000 annually. A master’s degree can raise that estimated salary by $43,731 a year, or higher.
Social scientists and other related workers earn a median wage of $67,090 per year. The median salary of urban planners is $53,450 annually. All other sociologist occupations earn a median annual wage of $33,840.
The above projected salaries are for persons who become sociologists. The great thing about a sociology degree though is that you can use it for jobs in many different fields, including social services, education, public policy, or other areas.
The following are projected salaries within the listed fields:
- Education – Sociology College Professor: $75,130
- Political Scientists: $107,420
- Anthropologists and Archeologists: $54,230
Job Outlook for a Sociology Degree
From the year 2010 to 2020, sociology employment is expected to grow 18 percent. New employment will excel by a recent growing interest to use sociological research to further understand society and human social interactions. Sociologists have also begun collaborating with other fields of studies, such as health, education, politics, business, or economics.
Most sociologists work full time during regular business hours. They might also receive benefit packages, unless self-employed.
Similar Occupations
Keep in mind that a degree in sociology can lead to a variety of other employment opportunities. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, similar occupations include the following:
- Anthropologist and Archeologists
- Economists
- Historians
- Political Scientists
- Postsecondary Teachers
- Psychologists
- Social Workers
- Statisticians
- Survey Researchers
- Urban and Regional Planners
Sociology is such a broad field that graduates often go on to pursue careers in many different fields. Not all students choose to work in research or as a sociologist for an agency or an organization. While you’re in school, it’s important to take a variety of courses to learn as much as possible about where our degree can take your career.
If you’re still unsure what you want to do after graduation, take a few minutes to research your options by searching online or talking with a professor or career counselor. Your teachers are a great source of information about job opportunities, research positions, and other avenues for employment. And why not talk with your peers about their career prospects? If you’re an online student, perhaps start a discussion on your school’s web forum to get advice and to make new contacts. You never know who you might connect with! You might also want to consider joining a professional association dedicated to the development of sociologists in your area or around the world.
