Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in sociology explores how humans interact, create change and coexist in social structures. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to conduct research, analyze information 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: 01/13/2025


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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What is sociology?

Sociology is the study of social life, social change and the underlying social factors and outcomes of human actions. Additionally, it’s the study of societal divisions related to race, gender and social class. Sociologists also explore the dynamics of groups, organizations and societies, as well as the intricate ways individuals interact within these frameworks.

As human behavior is inherently social, sociology's scope encompasses a wide array of subjects, ranging from close-knit families 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.

What you’ll learn in this online sociology program

Throughout this sociology degree, you’ll examine sociological theory, research techniques and how social institutions function. This sociology degree sets itself apart as a Bachelor of Science, rather than the more standard Bachelor of Arts in sociology. As a BS, this degree focuses on sociology subjects and research methods, as well as the history of social and racial issues in our communities. 

Coursework offers a particular emphasis on the real-world application of gender and race inequality, health, aging, technology and workplaces. Additionally, you’ll develop an overall knowledge base about concerns related to multiculturalism, diversity and other social issues. Upon completion, you’ll graduate with an improvement in your ability to communicate, interpret information and comprehend statistical methods. 

What can you do with a sociology degree?

Upon graduation from this sociology degree, you’ll be equipped to take on a variety of careers in the fields of social services, business, government and more. This program also serves as a stepping stone for graduate school or careers in sociological research.

The coursework prepares you for your next career or educational path within sociology with a deep understanding of social institutions, such as family, educational environments and workplaces, while improving your writing abilities, technical proficiencies and familiarity with research methods.

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.”

Sociology courses

Throughout this sociology degree’s coursework, you’ll engage in interactive online discussions, written projects and experiential projects. Course topics specialize in sociological theory and research methods. As you progress in this degree, you may customize your learning experience with a variety of sociology elective topics, such as gender, social thought, race and ethnicity and more.


The jobs you can get with a sociology degree

This online sociology degree provides you with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue  career opportunities in business, education, government, law and social services. This degree may also pave the way toward graduate work and careers in sociological research, as advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions.

Career examples 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

Study with experts in the sociology field

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.

Study with experts in the sociology field

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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