Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary
Sociology teachers at colleges and universities instruct students in courses covering human behavior, social structures, and society. They work in academic settings, typically at four-year institutions, community colleges, or universities. Most combine teaching with research activities and departmental responsibilities.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sociology teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A sociology teacher prepares lectures, leads class discussions, and grades assignments and exams. The work includes meeting with students during office hours, developing course materials, and serving on departmental committees. Research activities might involve conducting studies, analyzing data, or writing scholarly articles. The schedule includes scheduled class time alongside independent work planning instruction and pursuing research interests.
Who this work suits
Holland code SIA. Social work is helping, teaching and working closely with people. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
People who succeed in this role tend to be curious about why societies function as they do and motivated by understanding social patterns and human behavior. You likely enjoy investigating complex social issues, analyzing research, and sharing knowledge with others in an academic environment.
What it takes
Preparation: Extensive preparation (graduate degree and/or many years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold doct.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $96,530 | $127,680 | $167,290 | 810 |
| Delaware | $77,780 | $123,710 | $160,340 | — |
| New Hampshire | $98,950 | $112,890 | $133,090 | 40 |
| District of Columbia | $87,550 | $103,160 | $141,010 | 70 |
| Michigan | $82,320 | $102,870 | $111,290 | 370 |
| Oregon | $81,400 | $101,960 | $105,910 | 150 |
| Connecticut | $86,980 | $101,490 | $154,690 | 320 |
| Pennsylvania | $70,900 | $99,660 | $120,750 | 440 |
| Utah | $81,530 | $99,350 | $131,110 | 70 |
| New York | $75,810 | $97,540 | $128,210 | 1,130 |
| Massachusetts | $75,420 | $96,790 | $132,760 | 580 |
| Maryland | $74,810 | $95,980 | $128,480 | 200 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Family Life Educator (NCFR) — National Council on Family Relations
- LIUNA Instructor Certification — LIUNA Training & Education
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sociology teachers, postsecondary and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 25-1067.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.