Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary

Loading state data...

Loading state data...

Career Profile

Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary

What they do

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

Also Called: Adjunct Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Faculty Member, Instructor, Lecturer, Professor, Social Science Instructor, Sociology Instructor, Sociology Professor, Adjunct Instructor, Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, Faculty Member, Instructor, Lecturer, Professor, Social Science Instructor, Sociology Instructor, Sociology Professor

$41,950
Starting Salary (2025)
$78,630
Median Salary (2025)
2.1%
Projected Job Growth
110
KS Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Compile, administer, and grade examinations, or assign this work to others.
Evaluate and grade students' class work, assignments, and papers.
Initiate, facilitate, and moderate classroom discussions.
Keep abreast of developments in the field by reading current literature, talking with colleagues, and participating in professional conferences.
Maintain regularly scheduled office hours to advise and assist students.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Social
Working with people
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Analytical Thinking
Dependability
Achievement/Effort
Self-Control
Independence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Speaking
Instructing
Reading Comprehension
Learning Strategies
Writing
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Sociology and Anthropology
Knowledge of group behavior and dynamics, societal trends and influences, human migrations, ethnicity, cultures, and their history and origins.
Education and Training
Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.

Common Activities

Processing Information
Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Analyzing Data or Information
Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 5

Extensive Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Experience

Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience.

Training

Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

Typical Education Required

Education a new hire may need

  • Doctoral degree 77%
  • Master's degree 23%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
Source: O*NET Education, Training & Experience data

Add Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary to your favorites?

Add to favorites

More Info

logo_wcidwtm

Explore 106 major profiles, common career paths and strategies to maximize opportunities.

Visit Site
logo_mynextmove-p-500

Search career information in detail by keywords, browse by industry, or via your interests.

Visit Site
logo_careeronestop

Explore career options, find training and education, plan for your job search and find local help and services.

Visit Site
logo_blsooh

The Occupational Outlook Handbook - browse occupations and resources and explore occupation groups.

Visit Site
logo_onet

The nation's primary source of occupational information. Complete data and information breakdowns for all careers.

Visit Site