Rural Sociology
Total graduates
42
2025 · 3 schools
International share
9.5%
4 international students
Bachelor's degrees
29
0.0% international
Master's degrees
2
0.0% international
Overview
Rural Sociology is a specialized field within sociology that focuses on the social structures, relationships, and issues prevalent in rural areas. This discipline examines the unique dynamics of rural communities, including their economic, social, cultural, and political aspects. Scholars in this field study various topics, such as agricultural practices, rural development, migration patterns, community organization, and the impact of globalization on rural life.
One of the key concerns of Rural Sociology is understanding how rural communities adapt to changes, including shifts in economic practices, demographic changes, and environmental challenges. Researchers often explore the interplay between rural and urban areas, investigating how policies and social changes in urban settings can affect rural populations.
Students studying Rural Sociology gain insights into how rural societies function, the challenges they face, and the strategies they employ to sustain their communities. They learn to apply sociological theories and methodologies to analyze rural issues, preparing them for careers in research, public policy, community development, and social advocacy.
Moreover, Rural Sociology plays a crucial role in informing policies that aim to improve the quality of life in rural areas, ensuring that the voices of these communities are heard in broader societal discussions. The field emphasizes the importance of understanding the complexities of rural life, making it an essential area of study in the context of ongoing debates about sustainability, equity, and social justice.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2020 to 2025, graduates grew 75% and the international share went from 0.0% to 9.5%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 3 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #14 | New York | 17 | 4 | |
| #34 | Wisconsin | 10 | 0 | |
| — | AAbraham Baldwin Agricultural College | Georgia | 12 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Managers, All Other | 622,190 | $73.99 | $153,890 |
| Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other | 16,580 | — | $88,390 |
| Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary | 11,850 | — | $96,980 |
| Sociologists | 2,260 | $55.25 | $114,920 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2020–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.