Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Sociology Professor is an academic professional specializing in the study of social behavior, institutions, and human society. They are responsible for teaching sociology courses at the post-secondary level and conducting scholarly research.
Education: Doctoral or professional degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 3.7% (average)
Annual job openings: 1,100
Direct AI exposure: 21% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 59% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $84K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $50K per year | $65K per year | $84K per year | $111K per year | $160K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $33K above the national average. | ||||
Sociology Professors typically work in colleges and universities, where they divide their time between classrooms, offices, and research environments. Their roles may also involve attending academic conferences and conducting field research in diverse settings.
Sociology Professors play a crucial role in advancing our understanding of social structures, relationships, and institutions. They research and teach on various aspects of human society, from family dynamics to organizational behaviors, and contribute to the development of sociological theories. Their research often informs public policy, social programs, and contributes to a broader understanding of societal issues.
In the classroom, they inspire and educate the next generation of sociologists, social workers, and policymakers. Sociology Professors must be adept at communicating complex concepts, encouraging critical thinking, and fostering an environment conducive to learning and inquiry.
This career requires a balance of research, teaching, and administrative duties, and provides opportunities for collaboration with professionals in related fields, such as psychology, political science, and economics.
This position usually requires a Ph.D. in Sociology, which, following a bachelor's degree, takes approximately 5-7 years to complete.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
