Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary

Postsecondary sociology teachers instruct students in college-level courses, with some professionals focusing solely on teaching while others balance classroom duties with academic research. On a daily basis, these educators process and analyze data, interpret complex social information for their students, and use creative thinking to develop lesson plans. They rely heavily on their knowledge of sociology, anthropology, education, history, and psychology to deliver comprehensive lectures.

Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Teachers must excel at speaking, active listening, and writing to effectively share ideas and guide classroom discussions. They use computers to manage course materials and communicate with colleagues and administrators. Success in this field requires a strong social interest, empathy, and intellectual curiosity. Instructors must be highly dependable, cooperative, and attentive to detail as they evaluate student progress, mentor individuals, and maintain positive interpersonal relationships within their academic institutions.

Entering this career typically requires extensive academic preparation. Most professionals in this field need a graduate degree, and the standard entry-level education is a doctoral or professional degree, such as a PhD. Students preparing for this path generally major in sociology, general social sciences, sociology and anthropology, or demography.

In addition to advanced degrees, individuals can pursue professional credentials to enhance their teaching capabilities. For example, the LIUNA Instructor Certification from LIUNA Training and Education is a certification listed for this field. Candidates must develop deep expertise in English language, philosophy, law, and mathematics during their studies to prepare for the diverse demands of university teaching and research.

The median annual pay for postsecondary sociology teachers is $84,290. Earnings vary significantly based on experience, institution type, and tenure status, with the lowest 10 percent of earners making less than $49,930 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $160,140.

There are 11,850 people employed in this occupation. Between 2025 and 2035, employment is projected to grow by 2.2 percent, which is as fast as the average for all occupations. Job seekers can expect about 1,000 openings each year during this ten-year period.