Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in sociology explores how humans interact, create change and coexist in social structures. This program teaches you to conduct research, analyze social patterns and think critically about various topics, such as relationship building and community interactions.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 03/17/2025


Total classes:

Total classes: 41

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered

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Study the development, structure and functioning of human society

Sociology studies social life, change and the factors shaping human interactions and outcomes. This program examines cultural and social dynamics across race, gender and class, as well as the structure of groups, organizations and societies. You’ll also explore how individuals navigate these frameworks, gaining insight into behavior patterns and social influence.

Courses cover a range of social groups and behaviors, from close-knit communities to confrontational crowds.

Interested in pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) online? Explore the Accelerated Master of Public Health program through Claremont Graduate University in collaboration with ASU.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop

Throughout this program, you’ll gain expertise in sociological theory, research techniques and the function of social institutions. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications in health, aging, technology, workplaces and more. You’ll also deepen your understanding of multiculturalism and other social issues.

Additionally, courses strengthen communication, data interpretation and statistical analysis skills. You’ll build a strong foundation in social institutions such as families, educational environments and workplaces while honing your writing, technical and research abilities. Graduates are equipped for careers in social services, business, government and more, or to pursue graduate studies and sociological research.

This sociology degree stands out as a Bachelor of Science, rather than the more common Bachelor of Arts. As a BS, the focus is on sociological research methods and the historical impact of social issues.

Sociology vs. social work: The differences between the two

Although both sociology and social work are concerned with social issues, there are key differences between the two fields.

Sociology seeks to understand the root causes of social problems and how individual experiences are rooted in broader social structures. Sociologists collect, research and analyze data to identify patterns of human behavior and study social interactions across settings and institutional domains.
Social work focuses on providing people with direct services and community resources to address personal troubles that affect their quality of life.

If your interests more closely align with a career in social work, ASU’s online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) may be a better fit.

Will my diploma 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.”

Online sociology degree courses

You’ll engage in interactive discussions, written projects and experiential learning. Coursework covers sociological theory and research methods, while elective options allow you to tailor your studies to topics such as gender, social thought, race, ethnicity and more.


The jobs this sociology degree prepares you for

This program equips you with the knowledge and skills to pursue careers in business, education, government, law and social services. It also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies and sociological research, as some academic and clinical positions may require advanced degrees or certifications. Potential roles you can pursue include, but aren’t limited to:

Advocate


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $38,520

Human Behavior Researcher


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $50,470

Human Resources Specialist (HR Specialist)


Growth: 5.9 %
Salary: $64,240

Mental Health Counselor


Growth: 18.4 %
Salary: $49,710

Paralegal


Growth: 4.2 %
Salary: $59,200

Probation Officer


Growth: 2.5 %
Salary: $59,860

Rehabilitation Counselor


Growth: 1.9 %
Salary: $39,990

Social Services Director


Growth: 9.1 %
Salary: $74,240

Social Worker


Growth: 5.3 %
Salary: $50,820

Learn from faculty with a passion for sociology

As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching. Highlights include:

  • Centennial Professor
  • Dean’s Excellence in Teaching
  • MacArthur Fellow
  • Most Inspirational Professor
  • National Council on Family Relations Fellow
  • Outstanding Faculty Mentor
  • Outstanding Lecturer
  • Professor of the Year
  • William T. Grant Foundation Scholars

Learn from faculty with a passion for sociology

As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching. Highlights include:

  • Centennial Professor
  • Dean’s Excellence in Teaching
  • MacArthur Fellow
  • Most Inspirational Professor
  • National Council on Family Relations Fellow
  • Outstanding Faculty Mentor
  • Outstanding Lecturer
  • Professor of the Year
  • William T. Grant Foundation Scholars

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

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 become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students

$170 million


in research expenditures in 2022

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments

100+


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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