What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Sociology?

Earn your Master of Arts in Sociology and discover opportunities to positively impact society through research, teaching, advocacy, and social policy.

Are you a sociology major considering furthering your education and earning a Master’s in Sociology? This article will explain the benefits and outcomes of earning your sociology degree. Learn about different jobs, sociology courses, and different career pathways.

The sociology master’s program from New Mexico State University Global Campus (NMSU Global Campus) gives you the opportunity to choose coursework that fits your professional and personal goals. Whether you’re interested in obtaining a doctorate after graduation, or you want to get involved with public policy, a master’s in sociology might be the right move.

What Do Sociologists Do?

Sociology covers various skills, from communication to research, management, and data analysis. This blend of abilities enables sociologists to take on diverse private or public roles. Their primary focus is studying human behavior, societal patterns, and how institutions influence individuals and communities. 

This means that with a master’s degree, you can be well-versed in contemporary issues such as:

• Race
• Class
• Poverty
• Gender
• Sexuality

What can you do with a master’s in sociology? Any sociology degree offers many opportunities; a master’s degree program goes deeper into theory and research. A graduate degree in this field provides versatility, allowing you to contribute substantially to intricate societal challenges. 

How Can Earning Your Master of Arts in Sociology Expand Your Skill Sets?

Starting with a solid bachelor’s degree in sociology lays the groundwork for your academic journey. Taking it a step further with a master’s degree boosts your analytical and research skills and deepens your understanding of sociological theories, methodologies, and their real-world applications.

This upgraded skill set becomes a powerful asset when tackling social problems and is vital in advancing your career. So, why stop at the basics when you can take your expertise to the next level?  

Is It Better to Have a Master’s Degree in Sociology?

Having a bachelor’s degree in sociology is a great start, but leveling up with a master’s degree can change your career options. It gives you access to a whole new level of opportunities —think of higher positions and more responsibilities.

Employers are on the lookout for candidates with a graduate degree in this field. 

Is Graduate School Necessary to Work in the Field of Sociology?

You can land entry-level roles with just a bachelor’s degree, but if you’re aiming for better opportunities in this career, a master’s might be your ticket. Picture this: diving deep into criminology, social research, or organizational behavior. It’s not just about boosting your resume; it’s about stepping into the job market as the go-to candidate.

What Industries Can You Work In With a Sociology Degree?

The truth is that sociology grads are in high demand across a mind-blowing spectrum of industries. From government agencies shaping policy to international organizations tackling global challenges, your sociology degree equips you with a unique skill set that thrives in diverse work environments.

What Can You Do With a Sociology Degree?

A Master of Arts in Sociology provides advanced knowledge and skills for understanding social structures, relationships, and patterns. Here are some activities you can pursue:

• Research and Analysis: Conducting in-depth research on social issues, trends, and phenomena.
• Policy Evaluation: Assessing the impact of existing policies on different social groups.
• Community Development: Collaborating with communities to identify needs and develop strategies for improvement.
• Advocacy and Activism: Engaging in social justice movements to address inequalities and discrimination.
• Education and Training: Teaching sociology at various educational levels.

If you’re wondering about the best jobs for sociology degree holders, a Master of Arts in Sociology opens up diverse career paths.

Types of Jobs With an MA in Sociology

A Master of Arts in Sociology provides advanced knowledge and skills for understanding social structures, relationships, and patterns. Here are some jobs you can pursue with a master’s in sociology online:

College/University Professor

As a college or university professor, you hold a remarkable position where you can shape the minds of tomorrow’s leaders. Your role involves teaching, delving into research, and contributing to academic discussions within sociology.

Regarding compensation, salaries for professors vary depending on your academic rank and experience. Assistant professors typically earn between $60,000 to $80,000, while full professors can command wages exceeding $100,000. It’s a field that offers both stability and satisfaction, providing a fulfilling career path for those passionate about education.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for postsecondary educators is expected to grow by 8% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This steady growth indicates promising opportunities for those pursuing or considering a career in academia.

Data Analyst or Data Scientist

In an era dominated by data-driven decision making, sociologists specializing in data analysis play a pivotal role. Whether employed by research institutions, government agencies, or private companies, they extract valuable insights from social data.

If you’re exploring the best graduate degrees for sociology majors with a penchant for data, a Master of Arts in Sociology can pave the way.

Salaries for data analysts/scientists range from $70,000 to $100,000, with potential for higher earnings based on experience and industry. With the growing emphasis on data-driven decision making, the demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to rise.

Human Resources Director

Tap into your grasp of human behavior in organizational settings by stepping into the role of a Human Resources Director. Your responsibilities include crafting strategies for efficient workforce management, fostering employee engagement, and contributing to organizational development.

Regarding compensation, salaries for HR directors with a sociology background can range from $80,000 to $120,000 or even more, depending on the organization. The increasing recognition of the significance of employee well-being and diversity in organizations drives a growing demand for HR professionals with a sociology background.

Lawyer

Sociologists who dig deep into understanding societal structures have a unique advantage when advocating for social justice. If you’re a lawyer with a sociology background, you can explore cases involving civil rights, discrimination, and other issues where grasping societal structures is vital.

In the legal realm, salaries fluctuate depending on specialization and years of experience, typically falling between $60,000 to well over $100,000. While the legal field remains fiercely competitive, having a sociology foundation can make a difference, particularly in areas like social justice and human rights advocacy. 

It’s a powerful combination that sets individuals apart and amplifies their impact on pressing societal issues.

Researcher

As a sociology researcher, you’ll dive deep into social issues, uncovering patterns, and contributing to evidence-based policies that shape our world. Whether you join a research institution, think tank, or government agency, you’ll be part of a team tackling critical questions about how societies function.

This path can also be rewarding financially. Expect salaries to range from $70,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on your experience and the organization you choose.

Strategist

Use your understanding of human behavior to develop and launch initiatives that tackle pressing social issues and drive positive change. Your expertise can influence decisions across various sectors, from education reform to healthcare access to corporate diversity.

The compensation for sociological strategists reflects the significance of their role, with salaries typically falling between $70,000 to $100,000 or higher, contingent upon the sector and level of responsibility.

NMSU Global Campus: Earn Your Master’s in Sociology Online

If you’re ready to take the next step in your sociology career, consider pursuing your Master of Arts in Sociology at NMSU Global Campus. Ranked #2 in Intelligent’s Top 10 Best Online Master’s in Sociology programs in 2024, NMSU offers a respected program with a high graduation rate.

Our 100% online format allows you to balance your education with work and other commitments, providing flexibility and convenience without sacrificing quality. Consider NMSU Global Campus for your master’s in sociology, where excellence meets flexibility.