Online Bachelor of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Explore the complexities of human behavior, society and culture with Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Arts in social and behavioral sciences. This program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze social issues, conduct research and develop solutions to address contemporary societal challenges. With a focus on critical thinking, communication and research methods, you’ll graduate prepared for careers in psychology, sociology, public health and more.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 10/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 40

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Social and Behavioral Sciences (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Explore the intricacies of human behavior and societal dynamics

In this social and behavioral sciences degree, you’ll explore the intricacies of human behavior and societal dynamics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the factors shaping individuals and communities. You'll study subjects including psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science and human communication. Courses blend theoretical frameworks with practical applications, enabling you to analyze complex social issues, such as women's rights, homelessness, inequality and more, and develop innovative solutions.

The skills you’ll develop in this degree program

Throughout this program, you'll develop a diverse set of skills essential for a variety of career paths. Through interactive lectures, group discussions, case studies, research projects and simulations, you'll graduate with skills including:

  • Competent communication.
  • Critical thinking.
  • Empathy.
  • Ethical decision-making.
  • Leadership.
  • Problem-solving.
  • Research and data analysis.

These skills are highly transferable and will support your career in various industries and graduate studies, ensuring your success in lifelong learning endeavors.

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.”

Social and behavioral sciences courses

In this program, you'll take courses covering psychology, anthropology, political science, sociology, human communication and more. These courses are designed to provide you with a broad understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics. You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in an internship for credit, where you can gain hands-on experience in a professional setting related to your field of study.


The jobs you could get with a social and behavioral sciences degree

Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped for a variety of rewarding career paths, including roles in social work, counseling, public policy, human resources, community development and more. Your understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics will be invaluable in these fields, allowing you to make meaningful contributions to individuals and communities. Whether you're advocating for social justice, conducting research to inform policy decisions or providing support to those in need, you’ll be prepared for a fulfilling career dedicated to improving the well-being of others. Common career examples include, but aren’t limited to:

Addictions Counselor


Growth: 18.4 %
Salary: $49,710

Advocate


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $38,520

Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)


Growth: 7.2 %
Salary: $59,990

Community Specialist


Growth: 6.5 %
Salary: $47,290

Human Resources Manager


Growth: 5.2 %
Salary: $130,000

Lawyer


Growth: 7.5 %
Salary: $135,740

Mediator


Growth: 5.0 %
Salary: $64,030

Probation Officer


Growth: 2.5 %
Salary: $59,860

Public Relations Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $67,440

Leading faculty who make a difference

Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.

Leading faculty who make a difference

Prepare for the full New College experience curated by world-renowned faculty who are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our faculty strives to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they’ve learned to pursue careers that benefit their communities.

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.

Study at the most innovative university in the nation

ASU is a global university recognized for its commitment to innovation, research and high-quality academic programs. Our university has been recognized with peer-reviewed honors from U.S. News & World Report.

#1


in innovation for 10 consecutive years, ahead of Stanford and MIT.

Top 5


best online bachelor’s programs.

Top 10%


best global universities.

80%


of graduates reported that their experiences at ASU inspired them to explore new career opportunities.

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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