Best Online Sociology Degrees
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.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Bachelors in Sociology
2025
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat 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