Best Online Sociology Programs

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Updated on April 16, 2024
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Learn how earning an online bachelor’s in sociology can provide you the training and knowledge needed for several exciting careers.

Earning an online bachelor’s in sociology can provide an excellent foundation for both work and advanced study. Defined as the study of human relationships and behavior, sociology is a multifaceted, interdisciplinary field. A degree in sociology can be valuable in many different industries and sectors.

While the cost of these degrees can vary substantially based on what school a student attends, learners often find that online programs are less expensive than campus-based options. Regardless of where they study, degree-seekers can expect to spend approximately four years earning this degree. Given the versatility of these programs, graduates work in a wide spectrum of industries, including marketing, human resources, market research, and community services.

Keep reading to learn about standard course offerings, common job outcomes, and where this degree can take graduates now and in the future.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Program?

Students who pursue an online bachelor’s in sociology degree typically look at the world through a cerebral lens — they want to know more about how it works and why people behave the way they do. Students are often drawn to academic and intellectual pursuits and enjoy using data to make informed decisions in life and work.

The vast majority of bachelor’s in sociology programs consist of 120 credits and require four years of full-time study. Part-time programs last six years, while some schools offer accelerated options taking as few as three years.

In addition to generalist study, some programs offer learners the opportunity to specialize their studies in several concentration areas. These vary by school, but common examples include:

  • Sociology of Health, Medicine, and Science
  • Social Inequality
  • Environmental Sociology
  • Economic Sociology and Global Development
  • Social Data Research

In addition to completing all course requirements, students must sometimes participate in an internship component that will help them learn transferable skills before graduating. Some programs also include a thesis component to help learners build research and writing skills.

While a BA in sociology typically includes a foreign language component, a BS in sociology focuses more on research and analysis coursework.

Popular Sociology Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Program?

Introduction to the Sociological Perspective

In the first semester, this foundational course introduces students to sociological thought and methodologies. Learners will discover how to analyze subjects and communicate about them.

History of Sociological Thought

This course introduces students to the history of the discipline by providing a series of readings that demonstrate how the field has evolved and shifted in reaction to other intellectual developments over time.

Sociology of Family

Students taking this course examine how the role of the family plays a part in society. They often study the diversity of familial structures and how families have evolved throughout history.

Race and Ethnicity

This course considers how factors such as ethnicity, religion, race, and political views affect how individuals and communities interact with themselves and outside groups.

Environmental Sociology

This course looks at the relationship between humans and the environment, including the human role in climate change.

Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Program?

When looking at online bachelor’s in sociology programs, prospective students will notice that individual schools and programs set unique admission requirements. While most online and campus-based options set similar requirements, some particularly competitive programs may require applicants to participate in interviews.

Application

Every prospective student must complete an undergraduate application to be considered for admission. These forms typically ask for standard demographic information such as full name, mailing address, date of birth, and citizenship status. Most schools provide online applications, but some may still offer paper forms.

Test Scores

College entrance exams have long been part of the admissions process. However, some colleges and universities have started phasing these out in favor of more equitable means of testing students’ college preparedness. Colleges that still require these typically ask for either ACT or SAT scores.

Letters of Recommendation

When asking for a letter of recommendation, learners should consider individuals who know them well and can speak to both their life experience and their preparedness for higher education. Common examples of letter writers include current and/or former teachers, mentors, bosses, or members of their faith community.

Essays

College application essays provide the opportunity for applicants to set themselves apart from other students by sharing their unique life experiences. Essays should take a particular viewpoint rather than a generic approach. Ask a teacher or other trusted advisor to review essays for clarity and grammar.

Official Transcripts

Admissions departments use official transcripts for three purposes: ensuring GPA, reviewing classes taken in high school, and determining which community college courses will transfer to the new school. These typically need to arrive directly from previous institutions in a sealed envelope.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree?

Career Outlook

While some may think of an online bachelor’s in sociology solely as a building block to advanced study, graduates of these programs can find a variety of jobs after graduating. Sociology may not be one of the most popular college majors, but as a liberal arts degree, it provides transferable skills in research and writing, analysis, and data review and use, as well as an understanding of human behavior.

Salaries for graduates can vary substantially. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), market research analysts earned a median annual wage of $74,680 in May 2023, while human resource managers brought home median pay of $136,350 during the same year. Graduates can be found in many different positions and industries, including communications, marketing, human resources, and research.

See where a bachelor’s in sociology can take you. Learn more about sociology careers.

Career Paths

Market Research Analyst

Market research analysts use their skills in data collection and analysis to predict market conditions and how a particular service or product might do with consumers. They create marketing and sales forecasts, measure marketing effectiveness, and create questionnaires and surveys to collect primary data from customers.

Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $74,680


Human Resources Manager

These professionals oversee all the administrative functions of an organization to ensure it runs smoothly. They specifically work on staffing management and operations, frequently posting job listings, interviewing candidates, and making decisions around hiring. They may also coordinate employee benefits and oversee disciplinary procedures.

Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $136,350


Public Relations Specialist

PR specialists work with individuals and organizations to create, maintain, and improve their public image. They frequently craft press releases and other promotional materials, manage social media outreach, coach clients on public speaking, and use other channels to enhance their client’s public image.

Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $66,750


Writer or Author

Whether writing fiction or nonfiction, writers and authors convey ideas and information. Some may go the traditional publishing route, while others may work in content development roles for brands, content creation agencies, or even online publications focused on many topics.

Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $73,690


Social and Community Service Manager

Whether working for a nonprofit or government entity, social and community service managers create and oversee programs that support local communities and provide needed services. These workers also look for ways to improve offerings by conducting surveys and collecting data from participants.

Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $77,030


Sociology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Continuing Education

Many students who complete an online bachelor’s in sociology continue their education — especially if they hope to work in academia or research. Pursuing an online master’s in sociology can qualify graduates to take on several supervisory and management roles. A doctorate in sociology offers the credentials needed to teach at the postsecondary level.

Sociology positions do not require specific licenses or certificates, but some students may decide to participate in academic certification programs to specialize their knowledge in particular areas of the discipline. Examples include certificates in crime and punishment or gender and sexuality.

Cost

As students begin researching various online bachelor’s in sociology programs, they may soon find a wide range of tuition costs. In general, students looking to save money attend public colleges in their state of residence, while those with a larger budget look into private institutions. Learners should understand the true cost of programs and compare costs between online and on-campus programs before deciding.

Program Format

When looking at online bachelor’s programs in sociology, students can typically choose between synchronous and asynchronous learning formats. Those looking for more flexibility in their learning typically choose asynchronous programs. They can also decide on a full-time or part-time schedule. Some schools offer accelerated programs for those who wish to complete their degrees faster.

Location

Learners must decide whether to study online or on campus. Those who decide to pursue an online program often have more choice in terms of where to study, especially when the location does not factor into the decision-making process. That said, some online programs may require some in-person learning.

Accreditation

In addition to finding an online college with proper institutional accreditation, learners can also look for bachelor’s in sociology with programmatic accreditation. Within this field, students should look for sociology programs accredited by the Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology.

Student Support

The best bachelor’s in sociology programs offer various student support services that benefit learners while enrolled and even after graduation. In addition to providing mentorship opportunities, many also help students find internships. Universities also offer online support services specifically to learners studying remotely.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Programs

Rankings compiled by the the BestColleges Ranking Team

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We want to help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

Our rankings are grounded in a few guiding principles and use the latest statistical data available from trusted sources. Read our ranking methodology. We hope our approach helps you find the school that is best for you.

#1 Best Online Sociology Programs

University of Florida

  • Location-markerGainesville, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,477
  • Out-of-state$25,694
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$10,770
  • Out-of-state$27,335
  • Retention Rate97%
  • Acceptance Rate31%
  • Students Enrolled53,372
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment92%
  • AccreditationYes
#2 Best Online Sociology Programs

Florida International University

  • Location-markerMiami, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,721
  • Out-of-state$16,529
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$8,912
  • Out-of-state$21,393
  • Retention Rate91%
  • Acceptance Rate58%
  • Students Enrolled58,836
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment86%
  • AccreditationYes
#3 Best Online Sociology Programs

University of Central Florida

  • Location-markerOrlando, FL
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,478
  • Out-of-state$19,810
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,916
  • Out-of-state$25,759
  • Retention Rate92%
  • Acceptance Rate45%
  • Students Enrolled71,881
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment96%
  • AccreditationYes
#4 Best Online Sociology Programs

California State University-Fullerton

  • Location-markerFullerton, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate89%
  • Acceptance Rate68%
  • Students Enrolled42,051
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#5 Best Online Sociology Programs

Arizona State University Online

  • Location-markerScottsdale, AZ
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-StateN/A
  • Out-of-stateN/A
  • Retention RateN/A
  • Acceptance RateN/A
  • Students EnrolledN/A
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
  • AccreditationNo
#6 Best Online Sociology Programs

California State University-Bakersfield

  • Location-markerBakersfield, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate78%
  • Students Enrolled11,745
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#7 Best Online Sociology Programs

California State University-Chico

  • Location-markerChico, CA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$5,742
  • Out-of-state$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$7,176
  • Out-of-state$16,680
  • Retention Rate83%
  • Acceptance Rate90%
  • Students Enrolled16,746
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment100%
  • AccreditationYes
#8 Best Online Sociology Programs

Fort Hays State University

  • Location-markerHays, KS
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$4,140
  • Out-of-state$14,580
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$3,726
  • Out-of-state$10,602
  • Retention Rate78%
  • Acceptance Rate91%
  • Students Enrolled15,033
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment57%
  • AccreditationYes
#9 Best Online Sociology Programs

Texas State University

  • Location-markerSan Marcos, TX
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$8,326
  • Out-of-state$19,778
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$6,946
  • Out-of-state$15,127
  • Retention Rate77%
  • Acceptance Rate85%
  • Students Enrolled37,812
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment93%
  • AccreditationYes
#10 Best Online Sociology Programs

Central Washington University

  • Location-markerEllensburg, WA
  • 4 year
  • Campus + Online
Average Undergrad Tuition
  • In-State$6,475
  • Out-of-state$22,551
Average Graduate Tuition
  • In-State$9,822
  • Out-of-state$23,007
  • Retention Rate70%
  • Acceptance Rate86%
  • Students Enrolled11,174
  • Institution TypePublic
  • Percent Online Enrollment97%
  • AccreditationYes

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Sociology Programs

Is a bachelor’s in sociology worth it?

Before committing to a bachelor’s in sociology, students must first decide whether an online degree is worth it and whether this program of study meets their goals. Students looking for a versatile, liberal arts course of study often gravitate toward these programs to build transferable skills.

In addition to learning how to read and write at an advanced level, students in bachelor’s in sociology programs also develop research and data analysis skills. Through the program, learners explore the human condition and why humans behave as we do — knowledge that can prove valuable in many fields.

What can I do with a bachelor’s in sociology?

Online bachelor’s in sociology programs can help students build a broad knowledge base that hiring managers across several different industries value. Sales managers often value these graduates because so much time is spent learning about human motivations and behavioral patterns.

Additionally, because sociology students spend so much time analyzing data, they often find work as market analysts, survey researchers, and other professionals focused on making decisions based on actionable data.

Are sociology majors in demand?

While most jobs focused directly in sociology require a master’s or doctoral degree, those with bachelor’s degrees can find jobs in related industries. Sociology can be a great fit for students who want to keep their options open at this level, rather than studying a niche or particular topic.

Hiring managers value these graduates for their analytical and critical thinking skills, their ability to understand nuanced arguments, and their appreciation for how data can influence decision-making processes.

How much money can I make with a bachelor’s in sociology?

Salaries for bachelor’s in sociology graduates can vary dramatically based on many different factors, including a professional’s location, industry, and years of experience.

For instance, social and community service managers earned a median annual wage of $77,030 as of May 2023, while those working as human resources managers received a median salary of $136,350 that same year.

What are the highest paying jobs with a bachelor’s in sociology?

Graduates with an online bachelor’s in sociology can earn six-figure salaries with enough experience and seniority. In addition to human resources managers, advertising, promotions, and marketing managers also earn high salaries. The median pay for these professionals reached $131,870 per year in May 2023.

Professionals who decide to return to school for a master’s or doctoral degree can also increase their earning potential, whether they are considering research or professorial positions.

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