Best Online Sociology Degrees
Updated October 24, 2023
Sociology Degree Online
A bachelor's degree in sociology helps students develop a deep understanding of human behavior, society, and social groups. Earning a sociology degree online develops skills in statistical analysis, quantitative reasoning, and complex problem-solving. These skills qualify learners to work in sociology-related fields and other fields that rely on the same versatile skill set.
This guide contains advice on how to capitalize on a sociology degree. It offers an overview of the discipline and ranks some of the best online sociology programs. It also addresses frequently asked questions, career prospects, and earning potential.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of Florida-Online
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online
University of Florida-Online is a public college offering a variety of competitive bachelor's degrees. The school offers 21 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Gainesville. The bachelor of arts in sociology is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the sociology field.
The program enables flexible study. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor.
Degree-seekers can expect to pay $15,000 in tuition. The school's accreditation status allows enrollees to access funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships. The school reports an average financial aid award of $7,670 per student.
University of Florida-Online at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: Data not available
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 21
Admission Rate: 32%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#2 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Miami, Florida International University provides competitive bachelor's degrees to learners from all walks of life. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 36 online bachelor's programs. The bachelor of arts in sociology program prepares enrollees for the demands of the sociology field.
The program connects students with a supportive online learning community, while enabling flexibility. Enrollees complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify their coursework. Students can choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $16,529. At the accredited institution, degree candidates can access external and internal funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Degree-seekers typically receive a financial aid award package amounting to $8,958, on average.
Florida International University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 39,863
Total Online Programs: 67
Online Bachelor's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 58%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#3 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Central Florida provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degrees. The public college supports 19 online bachelor's programs from its main campus in Orlando. The bachelor's in sociology is a wise choice for students hoping to advance in the sociology field.
Degree-seekers benefit from a rigorous curriculum that enables flexible study. The curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Electives, minors, and other modifications can benefit enrollees and help them meet career goals.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $19,810. Learners can explore funding opportunities to apply toward their studies. The average financial aid award per student at this college is $9,728.
University of Central Florida at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 41,097
Total Online Programs: 47
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 44%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#4 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking competitive online study in sociology should consider Nicholls State University's online bachelor of arts in sociology. The Thibodaux, Louisiana, college boasts nine fully online bachelor's degrees. The program prepares learners for the demands of the sociology field through rigorous study.
The program connects students with a supportive online learning community, while enabling flexibility. Degree-seekers can also customize their studies by working with an academic advisor. Students can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
Typically, undergraduate students pay $6,015 in tuition. Students can receive financial aid to offset degree costs. The college reports that degree-seekers receive an average of $8,576 in financial aid.
Nicholls State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,388
Total Online Programs: 16
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#5 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of North Alabama
Florence, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of North Alabama, a public college in Florence, offers premier educational opportunities across 48 bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in sociology program is one of the school's 10 online bachelor's programs.
The program prepares sociology students for the field's demands. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize the degree. Enrollees can choose electives and minors to supplement their learning.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $19,200. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses. Degree-seekers can expect to be awarded $6,706 in financial aid, on average.
University of North Alabama at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 5,068
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 89%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#6 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Fort Hays State University
Hays, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners interested in pursuing a career in sociology can enroll in the bachelor of science in sociology at Fort Hays State University. The school offers this program from its Hays, Kansas, campus.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the sociology field. Students can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations. The program serves degree-seekers from all walks of life through flexible study options.
Graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $36,800 six years after finishing their degree. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $12,108 in tuition and fees yearly. Students can meet with the sociology department directly to inquire about admission requirements, application materials, and more.
Fort Hays State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,759
Total Online Programs: 40
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 91%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#7 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Arizona State University-Skysong
Scottsdale, AZ - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Arizona State University-Skysong, a public college located in Scottsdale, offers several bachelor's degrees. The public college supports 54 online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in sociology.
The online program emphasizes flexibility. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify their coursework. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their courses.
Undergraduate sociology students typically pay $19,282 in tuition. Degree-seekers can receive financial aid to offset educational expenses. The school averages financial aid award packages of $10,278 per student.
Arizona State University-Skysong at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 44,167
Total Online Programs: 126
Online Bachelor's Programs: 54
Admission Rate: 64%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#8 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Arkansas State University-Main Campus
Jonesboro, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Jonesboro, Arkansas State University-Main Campus enables online learning across 42 online programs. Of these online offerings, 10 provide undergraduate-level education. From its campus in Jonesboro, the school offers an online bachelor of arts in sociology. The program offers flexible study options, where learners can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
Degree candidates complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the sociology field. Students also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education during their studies. Learners can choose electives and declare minors and degree concentrations.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, from increased job opportunities to higher earning potential. The institution reports a median salary of $30,900 earned by graduates six years after completing their studies. Undergraduate students at the college can expect to pay $13,281 in tuition and fees yearly. Prospective applicants should connect with the sociology department to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
Arkansas State University-Main Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,939
Total Online Programs: 42
Online Bachelor's Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 80%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#9 Best Online Sociology Degrees
UMass Global
Irvine, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider UMass Global's online bachelor's in sociology. The college offers 16 fully online bachelor's degrees from its campus in Irvine, California. The program allows for full- or part-time study, making it a flexible choice for working professionals and busy learners.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing sociology-specific coursework. These classes equip degree candidates with knowledge and skills applicable to a postgraduate career. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $48,300. To learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements, students should contact the financial aid office.
UMass Global at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,772
Total Online Programs: 50
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 89%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#10 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Oregon State University enrolls distance learners in 50 programs. Undergraduate students can choose from 22 online bachelor's degrees. The bachelor's in sociology program is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the sociology field. The program offers flexible study options. Learners can pursue full- or part-time study while modifying classes as they see fit.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing sociology-specific coursework. Degree candidates also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education during their studies. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $42,700 six years after graduation. The average undergraduate student pays $19,273 in tuition and fees every year, after aid. To learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities, prospective students should contact the sociology department.
Oregon State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,977
Total Online Programs: 50
Online Bachelor's Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 82%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#11 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs
Danville, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Danville, Virginia, Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs provides competitive bachelor's degrees to learners from all walks of life. The private college supports distance learners across 12 online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor of science in sociology and criminal justice.
The online sociology program prioritizes flexibility. Learners work with academic advisors to create a course schedule meeting career and academic goals.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $11,520. Students can receive financial aid to offset degree costs.
Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 469
Total Online Programs: 24
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 24%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#12 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Kennesaw State University, a public school in Kennesaw, Georgia, boasts a robust online learning community. Of these online offerings, 14 provide undergraduate-level education. For students looking to advance in the sociology field, the school's online bachelor of science in sociology is a wise choice. Working professionals and busy students will benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Degree candidates complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the sociology field. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Enrollees can customize their studies by working with their academic advisor to choose electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The average undergraduate pays $17,175 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at Kennesaw State University, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the sociology department.
Kennesaw State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 18,360
Total Online Programs: 56
Online Bachelor's Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 75%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#13 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Kenosha, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Parkside, a public college in Kenosha, enables study across five online programs. Of these online offerings, two provide undergraduate-level education. The sociology degree-completion program prioritizes flexibility, making it an attractive option for working professionals and busy students. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing -specific coursework. These classes incorporate general and advanced knowledge applicable to the field. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their degree through electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. The school reports a median salary of $32,900 for graduates six years after completing a bachelor's degree. The average undergraduate student pays $10,154 in tuition and fees every year, after aid. Potential applicants can meet with leaders in the department to discuss application materials, admission requirements, and other relevant information.
University of Wisconsin-Parkside at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,055
Total Online Programs: 5
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 66%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#14 Best Online Sociology Degrees
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, OH - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Columbus State Community College, located in Columbus, Ohio, facilitates online learning throughout 38 online programs. Students looking for an individualized education relevant to the field can enroll in the online bachelor's in sociology. Enrollees benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
During the program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the field. Enrollees also complete general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Students can explore electives, minors, and degree concentrations with their academic advisor.
A bachelor's degree greatly increases one's earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $29,000 six years after graduation. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate enrollees pay an average of $6,027 per year in tuition and fees. Interested applicants should directly contact the department.
Columbus State Community College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,581
Total Online Programs: 38
Online Bachelor's Programs: Data not available
Admission Rate: Data not available
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#15 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of West Georgia
Carrollton, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of West Georgia, located in Carrollton, facilitates distance learning through 24 online degrees. Undergraduates choose from six online bachelor's programs at the public institution. One option includes a bachelor's in sociology. Degree-seekers benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Enrollees also attend general education classes to gain a well-rounded education. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. The institution reports that graduates six years out from their degree earn a median salary of $33,900. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $15,235 per year in tuition and fees. Prospective applicants should contact the sociology department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other information.
University of West Georgia at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,295
Total Online Programs: 24
Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Admission Rate: 59%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#16 Best Online Sociology Degrees
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners seeking advanced online study should consider one of California Baptist University's 39 online degrees. Undergraduate students seeking flexible, remote study can choose from one of 24 online bachelor's programs. One option includes a bachelor of arts in sociology. The program accommodates flexible study, so enrollees can learn at their own pace.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. The curriculum prepares students for the demands of the sociology field. Enrollees can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
Bachelor's degree-holders benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. Graduates who have completed their degree, gain on average a median salary of $40,000 after six years. Potential applicants should connect with the sociology department to discuss admission requirements and application materials.
California Baptist University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 6,112
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 78%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#17 Best Online Sociology Degrees
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking to earn a flexible college degree should consider University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus' online bachelor of arts in sociology. Working professionals and busy students can benefit from the program's flexible study options and class customization.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the sociology field. Degree candidates can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
The value of a bachelor's degree is clear. Graduates increase their job opportunities and earning potential. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $48,700 six years after finishing their degree. The average undergraduate pays $15,865 yearly in tuition and fees after aid. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,637
Total Online Programs: 34
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 67%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#18 Best Online Sociology Degrees
South Dakota State University
Brookings, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
South Dakota State University, a public school in Brookings, boasts a robust online learning community. Undergraduates can choose from nine online bachelor's programs, including a bachelor's in sociology. Degree candidates benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. The curriculum prepares students for the demands of the sociology field. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. According to the institution, enrollees can earn a median salary of $41,100 six years after finishing their degree. Though educational costs vary, sociology students can expect to pay an average of $18,195 in tuition and fees. Prospective applicants can contact the sociology program to learn more about admission requirements and financial aid opportunities.
South Dakota State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,358
Total Online Programs: 45
Online Bachelor's Programs: 9
Admission Rate: 90%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#19 Best Online Sociology Degrees
California State University, Fullerton
Fullerton, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
California State University, Fullerton, a public college, offers several bachelor's degrees. Distance learners can choose from two fully online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in sociology is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the sociology field.
The program prioritizes flexibility and equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduate tuition at the institution is $17,622. Students can receive financial aid to offset the costs of their degree. On average, enrollees receive $8,905 in financial aid.
California State University, Fullerton at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 15,479
Total Online Programs: 7
Online Bachelor's Programs: 2
Admission Rate: 53%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
#20 Best Online Sociology Degrees
McKendree University
Lebanon, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
McKendree University supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 22 online degrees. Learners hoping to advance in the sociology field can enroll in the college's bachelor's in sociology and criminal justice program. The program supports flexible study for learners from all walks of life.
Throughout their coursework, students gain industry-relevant knowledge through general and advanced classes. Enrollees can individualize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates greatly benefit from their education, gaining access to more job opportunities and a higher earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $39,200 six years after graduation. Prospective applicants can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
McKendree University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,067
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 63%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Data not available
Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
What Is An Online Bachelor's in Sociology Degree?
An online sociology degree introduces learners to the history, development, and contemporary expressions of the field. Degree-seekers receive broad-based instruction in the liberal arts with a special emphasis on the social factors, norms, and values that influence collective human behavior over time. Most programs also explore how to analyze individual instances of social behavior and relate those findings to broader issues like race, gender, class, family structures, and national identity.
Most students pursue this degree immediately following high school, although some programs prefer learners with some college experience. Graduates often find entry-level positions or pursue a master's degree.
Choosing an Online Program
Choosing an appropriate program depends on factors like tuition, career goals, curriculum, and delivery method. Click the link below to learn more about how to select the right online sociology degree for you.
What Else Can I Expect From a Bachelor's in Sociology Program?
Schools offering an online sociology degree tend to have similar learning objectives. Some programs may also offer concentrations or specializations, which let learners explore additional interests and develop skills that align with their professional goals.
The section below looks at some common courses in a typical online sociology degree.
Bachelor's in Sociology Curriculum
Sociological Theory
This course covers the philosophical roots of social theories and how they have developed over time. Other topics include approaches to human nature; the structure and functioning of social groups; conflict, cohesion and social control; and the articulation of the individual and society.
Research Methods in Sociology
This course introduces students to research design and measurement techniques that they may need for future sociology careers. Students evaluate existing research, design a research project, collect data, and analyze the data using SPSS Statistics.
Social Inequality
This course examines major theoretical approaches to the study of social inequality and empirical research on wealth, income, race, and gender stratification. Lectures and assignments cover classical and contemporary sociological theories; comparative analyses of the structure of inequality; the U.S. class structure; and global perspectives on poverty, wealth, and social mobility.
Sociology Careers
Below are three careers that require the technical knowledge and applied skills that students develop during an online sociology degree. These are just a few example careers; there are many other options that sociology graduates can pursue.
Training and Development Specialists
These professionals plan and implement programs designed to improve employee efficiency and productivity. Training and development specialists often assess needs through targeted surveys and evaluate existing programs based on their organization's needs and preferred outcomes.
Training specialists normally work full time during regular business hours and sometimes travel to training sites or to meet with potential clients. Most work for larger business and organizations, though some provide services as independent consultants.
Sociologists
Sociologists use behavioral analysis and research skills to address pressing social issues. They often generate research projects to test theories, using deductive and inductive reasoning techniques to interpret data and draw conclusions. These professionals often collaborate with other scientists, researchers, and policy experts to develop solutions that enhance society and cultural institutions.
Sociologists typically work full time within nonprofits, colleges and universities, and other socially-minded organizations. Most sociologists need a master's degree or a Ph.D. in sociology.
Survey Researchers
Survey researchers are typically employed in government, business, and social services, where they conduct surveys and use statistical software to analyze data, including demographic information and public opinion polls.
Some survey researchers enter the field with only a bachelor's degree in sociology or another social science that includes statistics training. However, many positions require advanced training and a graduate degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Bachelor's in Sociology Program?
Most degree-seekers complete their online sociology degrees in four years. Part-time learners may take a bit longer, while students with transfer credits or an associate degree can finish in two years.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Sociology?
Graduates often pursue careers working in socially-oriented businesses, health services, and social work. It is also common to pursue a master's or Ph.D. in sociology, which opens the career path to becoming a sociology professor.
Is It Hard to Get a Job With a Sociology Degree?
While a sociology job is not guaranteed, there is plenty of opportunity: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 5% increase in the number of sociology jobs between 2022 and 2032.
Is Sociology a Dying Field?
No. In addition to careers as sociologists, graduates with an online sociology degree can find work in education, business, and criminal justice.
What Does a Sociologist Do?
Sociologists analyze society and collective behavior by studying how cultures, groups, and institutions develop over time. They accomplish these tasks by gathering data and presenting research.
Image Credit: Tom Werner | Getty Images
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