Best Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Programs of 2023
Sociologists research and analyze societal structures and patterns in human behavior. They help to direct social policy and utilize their strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills to provide solutions for a wide range of industries, from advertising to healthcare. Help create societal change for both individuals and communities with an online bachelor's in sociology.
Why This Matters
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23% OF SOCIOLOGISTS HAVE MASTER’S DEGREES
O*NET reports that a little under one-fourth of sociologists have master’s degrees, while the other 77% have doctorate degrees. A bachelor’s degree is required to go on to a master’s degree, making online bachelor’s in sociology programs a crucial stepping stone.
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DEMAND FOR SOCIOLOGISTS TO INCREASE BY 4%
Graduates can expect a positive job outlook over the next decade, as sociologists are needed to research the effects of social structures and groups on public policy. Sociologists will also be needed to collaborate with other researchers across various fields including economics and psychology.
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SOCIOLOGISTS EARN $83,420 PER YEAR
The median salary for sociologists with a master’s degree is more than twice the median U.S. salary of $39,810 for all other occupations.
Our Research
We examined online undergraduate programs that have received accreditation for their academic curriculum. Accreditation is given to bachelor’s programs at the national and regional level, and these degrees and credits can often be easily transferred to other institutions. The schools on this list are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Sociology is considered a science; however, graduates are awarded either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Sociology. The programs on this list deliver all coursework online.
- 59 hours to write this article
- 150 universities and colleges we assessed
- 296 education programs we compared
The Top 50 Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Programs
What You Should Know About This Degree
Most jobs in sociology require a master’s degree, and undergraduate programs are designed to prepare students for their graduate studies. While it’s possible to become a social worker with a bachelor’s in sociology, you may want to consider other degree programs that are more specialized if you do not intend on obtaining a master’s degree.
If you’re interested in studying the nuances of different cultures, you may want to consider a bachelor’s program in anthropology. Psychology studies the individual and students often pursue careers in human and social services. Determine if you want to work with individuals or with larger groups in society when choosing a major.
Businesses will continue to seek out employees who have a deep understanding of human behavior. However, competition will remain high, so it’s best to acquire certifications to validate your expertise. Joining professional organizations, such as the American Sociological Association, can also help to open up additional career opportunities.
What’s Next?
Here are some questions to ask when researching online bachelor’s in sociology programs:
- Am I eligible for this program? Students who hold a high school diploma are eligible to pursue a bachelor’s in sociology. However, many programs have additional requirements such as a minimum GPA and standardized test scores. You’ll find information about academic prerequisites on the program’s website.
- How long does it take to complete this degree? Undergraduate programs in sociology take four years of full-time study to complete. Most programs on this list require 120 credits to graduate. Remember that most career opportunities in sociology will require you to obtain a master’s degree or Ph.D. These programs take another 1-2 years to complete.
Make sure to check all application deadlines and submit materials on time. If you need financial assistance to cover the cost of your higher education, research financial aid opportunities that are available at the federal and state level. There are grants and scholarships that you don’t have to pay back, and some are also based on academic merit instead of financial need.