Earning a bachelor’s in sociology can empower students with profound insights into human behavior, societal dynamics, and cultural intricacies. Graduates are well-prepared for fulfilling careers as:
- Social research analysts, with an annual median salary of $56,400
- Human resources specialists, with an annual median salary of $67,650
- Community outreach coordinators, with an annual median salary of $77,030
With the flexibility of online learning, students can complete their degrees in approximately four years while pursuing a relatively affordable education. On average, the tuition for an undergraduate degree is $14,688 per year. Whether you’re drawn to criminology, social services, or cultural analysis, these online programs will illuminate the path to your future career.
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Program
Choose your area of study
This degree may be offered as a Bachelor of Arts (focuses more on the humanities) or a Bachelor of Science (focuses more on research and data analysis). Also, many online bachelor’s in sociology programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for programs that closely match these career goals. For example, criminology suits those drawn to law enforcement, medical sociology appeals to those interested in healthcare dynamics, and environmental sociology suits eco-conscious individuals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Also, you should look into whether programs offer services for online students such as tech support, mentorship, virtual tutoring, and career counseling.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements vary by school and program. High school transcripts are typically required, and you may also need to submit a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores. If testing is required, an ACT or SAT test prep course can help you get a good score and improve your odds of acceptance. Also, you should always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding program requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost. Paying for your degree without incurring significant debt requires adopting a strategic approach.
First, explore scholarships and grants specific to your field of study, leveraging academic achievements and community involvement. Complete the FAFSA to unlock federal aid opportunities, including subsidized loans with favorable interest rates and repayment terms. Consider seeking a work-study program to gain experience while offsetting tuition costs. And those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits.
Best 50 Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Programs
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How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online bachelor’s in sociology programs in the U.S. All programs are offered by nonprofit, accredited institutions. The list includes public and private institutions known for high standards of academic quality.
Each program was evaluated on factors such as tuition costs, faculty, student resources, reputation and admission, retention, and graduation rates. Based on this, we gave each program an Intelligent Score ranging from 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
We also compared our picks to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Program?
By earning your online bachelor’s in sociology, you will uncover the forces that shape behavior, relationships, and cultures while developing critical thinking and research skills. Throughout these programs, you’ll explore social inequality, gender dynamics, and global perspectives, gaining insights into societal structures.
This degree typically takes three to four years of full-time study, offering flexibility for working professionals or those balancing other responsibilities. While these programs are predominantly delivered online, some programs may allow students to participate in optional in-person workshops and residencies to enrich their learning further.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in sociology program
- Social Inequality and Stratification: A standard core requirement, this course analyzes societal disparities based on race, class, and gender. Students will delve into the roots of inequality, its impact on individuals and communities, and strategies for addressing these issues through policy and activism.
- Gender and Society: Frequently considered an upper-division elective, this course examines the complex interplay between gender, culture, and societal norms. Examine how gender roles and expectations shape identities, relationships, and power dynamics while considering the intersectionality of gender with other social factors.
- Criminology and Deviance: Another elective, this course investigates the causes and consequences of criminal behavior and society’s response to deviant actions. Students will gain insights into the criminal justice system, theories of crime, and approaches to rehabilitation and punishment.
- Social Research Methods: A common core requirement, this course helps students develop essential research skills, including how to design and conduct surveys, interviews, and experiments. They will gain proficiency in analyzing and interpreting data to contribute evidence-based solutions for societal challenges.
What Can I Do With an Online Sociology Degree?
Career outlook
Understanding and addressing social issues is necessary for organizations within government, education, healthcare, and other industries. A bachelor’s degree in sociology offers career opportunities in many fields, and the growth for many of these jobs reflects the increasing focus on social and community issues on local and global scales.
Some of the most common jobs for workers with this degree include:
- Social and community service manager — Coordinate and oversee social programs. This role may involve collecting and analyzing data to demonstrate the impact of efforts on social and community development.
- Median annual salary: $77,030
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 9%
- New jobs projected: 16,000 per year
- Probation officer or correctional treatment specialist — Assist criminal offenders through the rehabilitation process while they are on probation or parole.
- Median annual salary: $61,800
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New jobs projected: 7,400 per year
- Sociologist — These advanced researchers examine and analyze social institutions and cultures through observation, surveys, or other means. Their research measures qualitative and quantitative outcomes of social changes, such as new laws, which assists lawmakers, administrators, and other groups in making informed social strategies.
- Median annual salary: $101,770
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 300 per year
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor’s in sociology degree program?
To apply for an online bachelor’s in sociology program, visit the school’s website and follow the application process. You must submit an online application form, transcripts, personal statement, and letters of recommendation. In addition, some programs may require standardized test scores or a minimum GPA. Connecting with an admissions counselor before applying is vital to understand specific requirements, deadlines, and any additional materials needed. Their guidance can enhance your application’s success and ensure a smooth process toward earning your sociology degree online.
How much does an online bachelor’s in sociology degree cost?
The average tuition for an undergraduate degree is $7,998 per year at public schools and $34,923 per year at private schools. In addition to tuition, you should also plan for extra costs such as technology fees and textbooks.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in sociology degree?
Generally, it takes around three to four years of full-time study, but the flexibility of most online programs can impact completion time. Students who enroll part-time usually take longer to complete degree requirements, which may benefit those balancing their education with other responsibilities.
The total number of required credits can also influence program length. Most undergraduate programs require 120 to 150 credits to graduate. Generally, the more credits required, the longer it will take to complete.
Is an online bachelor’s in sociology worth it?
A bachelor’s degree in sociology can help students compete for jobs where well-developed critical thinking, data analysis, and other skills are in high demand. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that workers with a bachelor’s degree earn a median weekly salary of $1,493, compared to $899 for those with only a high school diploma.
These credentials can lead to even greater earning potential in the long term. Sociology undergraduate majors can use their credentials to pursue advanced programs, such as master’s or law programs, where they can develop their skills and knowledge for competitive and senior-level roles.