We surveyed 879 sociologists to better understand the work environment and required skills of a typical sociologist. Here are the results.
How much intelligence is required as a sociologist?
Low
High
Working as a sociologist typically doesn’t require the use of high levels of intelligence in daily tasks.
Can I learn to become a sociologist?
Intrinsic Talent
Acquired Talent
A career as a sociologist typically depends predominantly on qualities you can gain through experience, with a small aspect of skills you are born with.
Is it easy to get a job as a sociologist?
Easy
Hard
It’s typically difficult to find a job as a sociologist. If you’re curious about the numbers, check out the job market for sociologists.
Do sociologists work full-time or part-time?
55% of sociologists work in full-time roles while 45% work part-time.
Is being a sociologist stressful?
Low
High
Sociologists tend not to find their jobs stressful, which likely contributes positively to career satisfaction.
Is being organized important as a sociologist?
Low
High
Organization is not considered a particuarly important part of being a sociologist.
How competitive is the workplace for sociologists?
Low
High
Competition at work is not common for sociologists.
Does being a sociologist require frequent time pressure to complete tasks?
Low
High
Time pressure tends not to be a major contributor of stress for sociologists.
Are sociologists allowed to express themselves creatively?
Low
High
Sociologists are afforded a certain level of ability to express themselves creatively, compared to other careers.
Do sociologists have control over the direction of their work?
Low
High
While sometimes the direction is set, occasionally sociologists will have some flexibility over the direction of their work.
Is being a sociologist physically demanding?
Low
High
Work as a sociologists is not the most physically demanding of careers, falling in the bottom half of all careers.
Are sociologists exposed to a wide variety of work?
Low
High
While sometimes repetitive, sociologists tend to have opportunities for variety in their work.
Does being a sociologist require attention to detail?
Low
High
Attention to detail isn't necessarily required to be successful as a sociologist.
Does being a good sociologist require compassion and empathy?
Low
High
Being compassionate and empathetic is considered helpful to those looking to pursue careers as sociologists.