Online Bachelor of Science in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Are you inspired to make a positive impact and shape the future of our world? Embark on a journey to understand the intricacies of human behavior, society and culture through Arizona State University's Bachelor of Science in social and behavioral sciences. This innovative program provides you with a comprehensive toolkit to examine and address pressing social issues. You'll develop strong critical thinking, communication and research skills, preparing you for diverse career paths in fields such as psychology, sociology and public health. Upon graduation, you'll be equipped to make a meaningful impact on the world around you.

Learn more

Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 08/22/2024


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 (BS)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Prepare to address the complex challenges facing society today

This social and behavioral sciences major empowers you to confront the complex challenges of contemporary society by examining human behavior and societal dynamics. You'll develop a holistic comprehension of the influences shaping individuals and communities, preparing you for impactful contributions.

This program also features a rich curriculum encompassing psychology, sociology, anthropology, political science, human communication and more. By merging theoretical foundations with hands-on applications, you'll graduate equipped to provide solutions to social issues, such as:

  • Inequality.
  • Homelessness.
  • Women's rights.

The skills you’ll develop as a social and behavioral sciences major

In this program, you'll cultivate a versatile skill set for a wide range of career paths. Engaging in interactive lectures, case studies, research projects, group discussions and simulations, you'll develop proficiencies in:

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

By honing these skills, you'll be equipped to navigate multifaceted societal problems, communicate effectively with diverse audiences and drive positive change in your community and beyond.

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 social and behavioral sciences courses

In this program, you’ll explore a diverse range of subjects, including quantitative methods, psychology, anthropology, statistics, political science, sociology, human communication and more. Courses teach you how to research, analyze and interpret human behavior and societal dynamics to promote individual and community well-being through innovative solutions. Additionally, you'll have the option to enroll in an internship course for credit, providing you with hands-on experience in a professional setting relevant to your area of study.


SBS 200: Introduction to Social and Behavioral Sciences (SOBE OR SB)


SBS 302: Qualitative Methods


SBS 303: Quantitative Methods (QTRS)


SBS 301: Cultural Diversity ((L or SB) & C)


SBS 304: Social Statistics I (QTRS OR CS)


The jobs social and behavioral sciences majors are prepared for

Upon completion, you’ll be prepared for a range of career opportunities in fields such as social work, counseling, public policy, human resources, community development and more. Your grasp of human behavior and societal intricacies will serve as a cornerstone in these professions, enabling you to effect meaningful change in both individuals and communities and enhance the welfare of others. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:

Addictions Counselor


Growth: 18.4 %
Salary: $49,710

Advocate


Growth: 8.6 %
Salary: $38,520

Community Specialist


Growth: 6.5 %
Salary: $47,290

Human Behavior Researcher


Growth: 4.8 %
Salary: $50,470

Lawyer


Growth: 7.5 %
Salary: $135,740

Mediator


Growth: 5.0 %
Salary: $64,030

Paralegal Assistant


Growth: 0.2 %
Salary: $62,340

Patient Advocate


Growth: 6.6 %
Salary: $44,990

Politician


Growth: 3.4 %
Salary: $48,090

Leading faculty who make a difference

As an online student at ASU, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.

Leading faculty who make a difference

As an online student at ASU, you’ll get the New College experience from the same faculty who teach our courses on campus. Our faculty members are some of the brightest, most innovative academic minds in the world. Our areas of expertise include psychology, anthropology, geography, political science, cybersecurity, forensic science and more. Our mission is to create an environment that prepares students to take their place in the world using the skills they have learned to pursue careers that benefit their community.

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.

Competency requirements

Additional admission requirements

High school equivalency

Homeschool

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 9 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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