Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses in sociology. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1067.00

Common Job Titles

  • Assistant Professor
  • Professor
  • Sociology Instructor
  • Sociology Professor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeAnalyze sociological research data and theoretical frameworks using statistical software such as SPSS, SAS, or R to identify social patterns and trends.
  • KnowledgeEvaluate student research proposals and academic writing independently assessing methodological rigor and theoretical coherence.
  • KnowledgeDesign undergraduate and graduate sociology curricula incorporating contemporary sociological theory, empirical research methods, and ethical considerations.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize sociological literature across multiple subdisciplines for publication in peer-reviewed journals and presentation at professional conferences.
  • KnowledgeFormulate research questions addressing contemporary social issues integrating quantitative and qualitative methodologies with sociological theory.
  • MindsetIntegrate pedagogical strategies with diverse student learning needs when designing inclusive sociology courses that foster critical social awareness.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate sociological concepts through real-world case studies in lectures and seminars using multimedia presentation tools and interactive whiteboards.
  • MindsetAdvocate for ethical research practices and social justice principles when mentoring graduate students conducting community-based research.
  • KnowledgeAssess student learning outcomes and course effectiveness through formative and summative evaluation methods aligned with program objectives.
  • MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary faculty and community stakeholders to promote collaborative research initiatives and public sociology.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

12,380

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $49,330. 25th percentile: U.S. $64,130. 50th percentile: U.S. $82,540. 75th percentile: U.S. $113,000. 90th percentile: U.S. $167,240. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$49,330
10% of workers earn the following or more$167,240
Workers on average earn$97,270

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • English Language4.9/5
  • Sociology and Anthropology4.7/5
  • Education and Training4.5/5
  • Computers and Electronics3.9/5
  • History and Archeology3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Google Docs
  • IBM SPSS Statistics
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • R
  • SAS
  • The MathWorks MATLAB

Technology Skills

  • Blackboard Learn
  • Blackboard software
  • Calendar and scheduling software
  • Centre for Multilevel Modeling MLwiN
  • Collaborative editing software
  • Course management system software
  • DOC Cop
  • Desire2Learn LMS software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Compact digital cameras
  • Compact disk CD players
  • Computer data input scanners
  • Computer laser printers
  • Computer projectors
  • Conference telephones
  • Desktop computers
  • Digital calculators
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment