SOCIOLOGISTS

Nature of the Work

Sociologists study human society and social behavior by examining the groups and social institutions that people form families, communities, and governments, as well as various social, religious, political, and business organizations.  They also study the behavior and interaction of groups, trace their origin and growth, and analyze the influence of group activities on individual members. They are concerned with the characteristics of social groups, organizations, and institutions; the ways individuals are affected by each other and by the groups to which they belong, and the impact of social traits such as gender, age, or race on a person's daily life.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

A master's degree in sociology usually is the minimum requirement for employment in applied research or community college teaching. The Ph.D.  degree is essential for most senior level positions in research institutes, consulting firms, corporations, and government agencies, and is required for appointment to permanent teaching and research positions in colleges and universities.

Sociologists holding a master's degree can qualify for administrative and research positions in public agencies and private businesses.  Training in research, statistical, and computer methods is an advantage in obtaining such positions. Bachelor's degree holders in sociology often get jobs in related fields.  Their training in research, statistics, and human behavior qualifies them for entry level positions in social services, management, sales, personnel, and marketing. 

Job Outlook

Most job openings in sociology are expected to result from the need to replace sociologists who transfer to other occupations, retire, or leave the labor force for other reasons.  Additional positions for sociologists will stem from the increasing demand for research in various fields such as demography, criminology, gerontology, and medical sociology, and the need to evaluate and administer programs designed to cope with social and welfare problems. 

Earnings

Earnings vary with work settings.  Experienced sociologists with a doctoral degree tend to earn the highest salaries in academia. Those employed in business, industry, and private consulting may earn more than those in academia or in government.  The master's degree may be as lucrative as a doctorate in some settings outside of academia.

The Federal Government recognizes education and experience in certifying applicants for entry level positions.  In general, the average entrance salary for sociologists with a bachelor's degree was about $18,300 or $22,700 a year in 1993, depending upon the applicant's academic record.  The starting salary for those with a master's degree was $27,800 a year, and for those with a Ph.D., $33,600, while some individuals with experience and an advanced degree could start at $40,300. 

Additional information can be obtained by contacting the following organizations:

American Sociological Association, 1722 N St.  NW., Washington, DC 20036-2981.

Population Association of America, 1722 N St.  NW., Washington, DC 20036.

Sociological Practice Association, Department of Pediatrics/Human Development, B240 Life Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824-1317.

Rural Sociology Society, Department of Sociology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59715.


