Applied/Public Sociology
A program that focuses on the application of sociological theory, methods, skills, and research to resolve particular issues in real-world settings. Includes instruction in data collection, group and organizational dynamics, participatory action research, program evaluation, sociological research methods, and sociological theory.
- Schools offering
- 5
- Annual completions
- 71
- Typical degree level
- Bachelor's
- Median earnings (5yr)
- $52k
About this major
A program that focuses on the application of sociological theory, methods, skills, and research to resolve particular issues in real-world settings. Includes instruction in data collection, group and organizational dynamics, participatory action research, program evaluation, sociological research methods, and sociological theory.
Where this major leads
Occupations most often associated with this major, from the federal BLS+O*NET crosswalk. Job-growth projections and median wages are national.
| Occupation | Median wage | Job growth | Typical education |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managers, all other | $137k | +4.5% | Bachelor's degree |
| Social science research assistants | $58k | +4.4% | Bachelor's degree |
| Sociology teachers, postsecondary | $83k | +2.1% | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Sociologists | $102k | +3.6% | Master's degree |
Earnings at a glance
Median graduate earnings from the federal College Scorecard, 5 and 10 years out.
Median 5-year earnings
$52k
Associate's vs Bachelor's — early-career earnings
Associate's
$46k
Bachelor's
$53k
Top colleges for Applied/Public Sociology
Ranked by annual completions at the associate's or bachelor's level — a proxy for program scale.
| College | Location | Assoc. | Bach. | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Carolina University | Greenville, NC | 0 | 30 | 30 |
| Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | 0 | 30 | 30 |
| Tarleton State University | Stephenville, TX | 0 | 10 | 10 |
| The University of Texas at Arlington | Arlington, TX | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Michigan Technological University | Houghton, MI | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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Considering this direction?
We've taken a hard look at the debt, earnings trajectory, and degree-level tradeoffs for the Applied/Public Sociology field. Read our verdict before you commit.
Is Applied/Public Sociology worth it? Read verdict