Sociologists study society and social behavior by examining the groups, cultures, organizations, social institutions, and processes that develop when people interact and work together.

Most sociologists work in research organizations, colleges and universities, and state and local government. They typically work full time during regular business hours.

Most sociology jobs require a master’s degree or Ph.D. Many bachelor’s degreeholders will find positions in related fields, such as social services, education, healthcare, or public policy.

Employment of sociologists is projected to show little or no change from 2014 to 2024. Sociologists can expect to face very strong competition because sociology is a popular field of study with a relatively small number of positions.

This occupation supported 2,600 jobs in 2012 and 2,600 jobs in 2014, reflecting an increase of 0.0%. In 2012, this occupation was projected to increase by 15.4% in 2022 to 3,000 jobs. As of 2014, to keep pace with prediction, the expected number of jobs was 2,600, compared with an observed value of 2,600, 0.0% lower than expected. This indicates current employment trends are about on track with the 2012 trend within this occupation. In 2014, this occupation was projected to decrease by 3.8% in 2024 to 2,500 jobs. Linear extrapolation of the 2012 projection for 2022 results in an expected number of 3,000 jobs for 2024, 20.0% higher than the 2014 projection for 2024. This indicates expectations for future employment trends are much worse than the 2012 trend within this occupation.