Online Master of Arts in Sociology

Develop an understanding of the factors that promote successful relationships and positive outcomes for individuals, families and communities with a Master of Arts in sociology. This online sociology master’s program prepares you for careers in social work, case management and human resources.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 05/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 10

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 30

Degree questions, answered.

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An online master’s in sociology to meet your needs

The master’s in sociology online focuses on the practical application of research. Taught with an applied practitioner-oriented approach, the master’s in sociology is designed for students interested in gaining an advanced understanding of critical social issues and how they impact our everyday lives. In this sociology master’s program, you’ll refine your understanding of research methods and statistics while exploring how social contexts affect people’s well-being and how institutions shape our behaviors and worldviews.

Please note, this online master’s in sociology doesn’t require a thesis and serves as a terminal degree, meaning it’s not intended to prepare you for pursuing a PhD.

The skills you'll gain in this online master's in sociology

 

In the master’s in sociology program, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills needed to promote a sociological understanding of individual lives within institutional contexts. You’ll also obtain a wide range of transferable skills, including:

  • Ability to interpret research in an applied setting.
  • Ability to research topics and recognize quality sources of information.
  • Collaboration.
  • Critical thinking.
  • Purposeful dialogue.
  • Statistics.

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue a sociological topic of interest through applied field experience in Capstone III.

The benefits of earning a master's in sociology online

 

This online sociology master’s program was created with flexibility in mind. It can be completed in as little as 15–18 months, enabling you to enter the job market or enhance your career prospects at a quicker rate. Additionally, as a master’s in sociology student, you’ll broaden your knowledge base, allowing you to be more effective in your current role or expand your sociological background to pursue more advanced positions.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top industries with the highest levels of employment of sociologists are scientific research and development services, state government, universities and local government. Occupations range from academic administrator and data scientist to social worker and human resources manager.

Does my master's in sociology say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Online sociology master's program courses

Master’s in sociology courses focus on creating an in-depth understanding of sociological and research-based content while building practical skills and knowledge. Sociology master’s program courses are taught by full-time faculty who have PhDs and are interested in students' pedagogical and professional development. This program concludes with an individualized culminating experience. Courses may include:


Core

Diversity and Society


Core

Research Methods


Core

Social Science Statistics


Core

Sociological Theory


Elective

Leadership and Social Justice


Elective

Marriage and Family Relationships


Elective

Social Change and Innovation


Culminating experience

Capstone I


What can I do with an online master’s in sociology?

After obtaining a master’s in sociology online, you’ll have the knowledge and skills needed for a wide range of positions in fields such as social service, community service, human resources and education. Career examples include, but aren’t limited to:

Child protective services agent

Community program coordinator

Crisis intervention center employee

Government agency employee

HR professional

Nonprofit leader

Study with experts in the field of liberal arts

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Study with experts in the field of liberal arts

From Royal Society and American Academy fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members.

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Online sociology master's program admission requirements

Applicants to the Master of Arts in sociology program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Application requirements

Additional application information

Study sociology with the largest and most diverse college at ASU

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to be socially aware, critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$140 million


in research expenditures in 2018.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

95+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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