A degree in sociology provides graduates with the knowledge to understand and analyze human social behaviors, as well as social welfare. Because it is a relatively broad degree, students may be unsure about career options in the field of sociology. Read on to learn about several career paths that students with sociology degrees may consider; some of them may require advanced degrees, but sociology graduates can find employment with solely a bachelor’s degree.
Careers in Social Services
Sociology graduates may seek employment in social service agencies, working as either residential counselors, or if they seek additional education, social services directors.
According to PayScale.com, residential counselors employed by state and local governments earn, on average, $26,451 to $44,879 annually. They typically obtain bachelor’s degrees and oversee the activities of youth and adults in residential care facilities, engaging in crisis intervention, group counseling, and behavioral management. They may be involved in the coordination of resident activities, in addition to keeping records of their behavior.
Significantly out-earning residential counselors, social services directors earn median yearly salaries of $96,743, according to Salary.com. They are required to have a master’s degree, in addition to experience. They oversee all activities of social service agencies and departments, setting goals and creating policies. They may also supervise other social service workers within their organizations.
Unlike residential counselors, social services directors must obtain a master’s degree in sociology, social work, or a related field to be qualified for a position; a bachelor’s degree is typically not sufficient for success as a social services director.
Research Careers for Sociology Graduates
Sociology graduates with just a bachelor’s degree may also find fulfillment working as research assistants. According to CareerOverview.com, full-time social science research assistants earn median salaries of $33,900 a year.
Sociology graduates employed as research assistants work alongside sociologists and other social scientists, helping to conduct research in the lab and in real-life settings. They may be in charge of interviewing research participants, making observations, or recording data.
Teaching Careers for Sociology Graduates
If students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology are willing to continue to graduate school, they may be interested in teaching sociology courses at colleges and universities. Sociology professors, who must have doctoral degrees, enjoy a median annual income of $62,843, according to Salary.com.
In addition to teaching classes, sociology professors often conduct research and publish their findings in trade journals.
If students are not interested in careers as sociology professors, research assistants, social service directors, or residential counselors, they may find jobs in other areas. Because sociology provides students with a broad understanding of human behaviors and interactions, they may find success working as restaurant managers or retail store managers, where they will be required to effectively communicate with divergent groups of people. Sociology graduates may also find fulfillment working for non-profit agencies.
Jennifer Long - Jennifer Long holds a bachelor's degree in psychology from the Ohio State University and has completed research projects in the field.
