Sociology uses scientific research to help us understand how different aspects of our society impact people. Everything from our personal culture, socioeconomic status, gender, race, etc., to law, crime, politics, globalization, and environmental changes all affect who we are, and it all falls under sociology.
Since sociology can be such a broad subject, it can prepare you for a variety of graduate study and career opportunities. It’s also why many schools encourage sociology students to pursue a concentration, minor, and/or another major in a similar field, so that you can tailor your education to the specific area of sociology that interests you.
If sociology piques your interest as a career, listen to this episode of the YesCollege Podcast. Scott was able to chat with Dr. Patricia Maloney, assistant professor in the Texas Tech department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work or SASW. Click here to view this episode’s show notes.
While you’re listening to the podcast, check out our list of schools with sociology programs in the US. For each school, we provide a few highlights, including program offerings, course breakdown, and accreditation.
Click on the links below to jump to a specific state’s programs. You can also skip ahead to our Quick Facts about a bachelor’s degree in sociology, or information about degree types and accreditation.
California Baptist University
Accredited by WASC |
“CBU Online’s sociology degree program is designed to prepare sociology students to be well rounded and well-versed in the key principles of today’s dynamic society as courses cover a full gamut of key behavioral science topics, including: building skill in strategy, innovative problem-solving, and critical thinking relevant to today’s social work environment.” |
Purdue University Global
Accredited by HLC |
“Purdue Global’s online Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed to provide you with the foundational skills to address complex behaviors, solve social problems, and responsibly moderate relationships between individuals, family members, or people in the community. Use of applied behavior analysis methods is widely recognized as an effective method of treating those with behavior disorders, such as children with autism and those who are affected by trauma.” |
Saint Leo University
Accredited by SACS |
“Sociologists study society and social behavior. They seek to understand the way groups think and interact. They think about problems in society and how to best provide solutions. As a Saint Leo Sociology student, you’ll gain insights into social behavior and learn how to create change in your community and in the world around you.” |
Southern New Hampshire University
Accredited by NEASC |
“Southern New Hampshire University’s sociology major emphasizes professional practices as well as academics, with a career orientation and experiential learning approach. Our BA in Sociology provides the opportunity for first-person experience in analyzing and dealing with processes, problems and institutions of modern society.” |
University of Louisville
Accredited by SACS |
“The online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at University of Louisville seeks to transform how you approach your role in society by conducting a scientific examination of social structures and how they affect one’s attitudes, actions and opportunities. In this program, you learn to take an analytical, evidence-driven approach to social issues, as well as gain the interpersonal communication skills necessary to craft persuasive narratives grounded in critical thought.” |
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Accredited by SACS |
“Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology can choose either a classic sociology major or a sociology major with a specialty track in community services, global structures, environmental social science, or law and justice.The classic sociology major is designed for students who have a general interest in the field of sociology and who want to choose from a wider variety of sociology courses.” |
University of Alaska Anchorage
Accredited by NWCCU |
“The mission of the University of Alaska Anchorage Sociology Department is to train students in Public Sociology. The sociology major (BA or BS) provides students a firm foundation of required core courses along with a collection of elective courses that supplement core sociological knowledge.” |
University of Arizona
Accredited by HLC |
“The curriculum for the B.A. in sociology is designed to show students the character of human life and the impact of varying forms of social organization on human affairs. The sociology major provides a foundation for careers in many professional fields, such as law, criminal justice, health, and social service, and for graduate training as a professional sociologist in government, business, community agencies, research organizations, or educational institutions.” |
Arkansas State University
Accredited by HLC |
Arkansas State University offers a BA in Sociology degree that is designed to prepare students for graduate study and career opportunities in this field. This program consists of a minimum of 120 credit hours, and includes classes like Collective Behavior, Social Problems, and Sociology of Health and Illness. |
California Baptist University
Accredited by WASC |
“CBU Online’s sociology degree program is designed to prepare sociology students to be well rounded and well-versed in the key principles of today’s dynamic society as courses cover a full gamut of key behavioral science topics, including: building skill in strategy, innovative problem-solving, and critical thinking relevant to today’s social work environment.” |
California State University Los Angeles
Accredited by WASC |
“California State University Los Angeles offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology. There are four different options designed to focus coursework in particular areas of sociology, to allow for more in-depth study of that area. However, a standard set of required core sociology program courses across all four options ensures that those who successfully complete a BA degree in Sociology at Cal State LA, will have achieved the expected set of sociology undergraduate program learning outcomes.” |
University of California Davis
Accredited by WASC |
“The sociology major offers four different emphases: general, law and society, social services, or comparative studies and world development. The sociology organizational studies major offers four tracks: business and society, public policy and social welfare, nonprofit and social movement organizations, or student-initiated. “ |
University of Colorado Denver
Accredited by HLC |
“Students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in sociology through on-campus classes or by doing the degree entirely online. Of the 34 credits of coursework required in sociology, at least 16 credits must be earned in 3000 or 4000-level courses. The maximum number of credits permitted in the major is 56. Within the major, 19 credits are earned in required sociology courses, leaving 15-29 elective credits in sociology.” |
University of Connecticut
Accredited by NEASC |
“As an undergraduate Sociology major, students will take a series of classes – from introductory sociological topics to more advanced and in-depth seminars. These will challenge students to think critically and engage with a wide range of topics and ideas.” |
University of Delaware
Accredited by MSCHE |
“Graduating with a major in Sociology provides students with a broad liberal arts background and specialized understanding of the dynamics of social behavior. Consequently, sociology majors are found in virtually every possible career — journalism, the criminal justice system, politics, human resources, public relations, public administration. The B.A. in sociology is also appropriate preparation for advanced degrees in sociology, social welfare, health care administration, law and urban studies.” |
Saint Leo University
Accredited by SACS |
“Sociologists study society and social behavior. They seek to understand the way groups think and interact. They think about problems in society and how to best provide solutions. As a Saint Leo Sociology student, you’ll gain insights into social behavior and learn how to create change in your community and in the world around you.” |
University of Central Florida
Accredited by SACS |
“The Sociology degree, which may be completed online, face-to-face, or as a mix of online and face-to-face courses, has two major goals: 1) to promote undergraduate student excellence and 2) to advance career success for graduates by providing them with tangible, career-oriented skills.” |
Georgia State University
Accredited by SACS |
“Students majoring in sociology explore the ways in which individual agency affects and is limited by social structures. Our degree program introduces students to key processes and methods, in addition to preparing students for graduate work in sociology and related fields.” |
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Accredited by WASC |
“At the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa, undergraduates may pursue either a Bachelor of Arts Degree (BA) or minor in Sociology. Students will gain a broad understanding of sociology by completing dynamic courses across a range of topics. Students may choose to focus their studies on a variety of concentrations including criminology, deviance, and social control; community and societal studies; business, corporations, and other organizations; sociology of gender; medical and health services, and social change and development.” |
University of Idaho
Accredited by NWCCU |
“In this program, you will develop your ‘social imagination’ and study the social dynamics that influence our experiences, behaviors and opportunities. You will explore topics like race, social class, gender, globalization, crime, social mobility and the environment. Research is a key component of this field. As a sociology major, you will learn to interpret statistics, write reports, and design and conduct studies using various research tools and methods.” |
Northeastern Illinois University
Accredited by HLC |
“The Sociology major sharpens students’ sociological imaginations through close study of social structures and processes in which our personal biographies are embedded. As a Sociology major, you will have the opportunity to analyze society with an intersectional lens that challenges the status quo.” |
Purdue University Global
Accredited by HLC |
“Purdue Global’s online Bachelor of Science in Psychology in Applied Behavior Analysis is designed to provide you with the foundational skills to address complex behaviors, solve social problems, and responsibly moderate relationships between individuals, family members, or people in the community. Use of applied behavior analysis methods is widely recognized as an effective method of treating those with behavior disorders, such as children with autism and those who are affected by trauma.” |
University of Illinois at Chicago
Accredited by HLC |
“While offering a general sociology curriculum, the program specializes in the study of race, ethnicity and gender, work, labor markets and organizations, and urban sociology. Students majoring in Sociology will gain an understanding of, and the ability to use, key sociological theories, methodological approaches, and analytical skills, in building sociological knowledge.” |
Indiana University Bloomington
Accredited by HLC |
“The B.A. major in sociology acquaints students with basic principles, methods, and findings in sociology and the scientific study of society and of human social interaction as organized in systems of social relationships, organizations, and institutions. Major subfields offered by the Department of Sociology include social psychology; deviance; social inequality; medical sociology; and the study of the family, schools, gender roles, ethnic and racial groups, and social classes.” |
University of Iowa
Accredited by HLC |
“The Department of Sociology has a strong undergraduate program with outstanding academics and comprehensive career preparation, including careful advising by faculty members. Your work for the sociology major will culminate in a writing/research portfolio that will help you search for a job and apply to graduate school.” |
University of Kansas
Accredited by HLC |
“A sociology major can give you the knowledge of social relations and society that will enhance your career opportunities. The department’s graduates work in personnel administration, social service agencies, and business. Your sociology degree is excellent preparation for graduate studies in sociology as well as in areas such as social welfare, public administration.” |
University of Louisville
Accredited by SACS |
“The online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at University of Louisville seeks to transform how you approach your role in society by conducting a scientific examination of social structures and how they affect one’s attitudes, actions and opportunities. In this program, you learn to take an analytical, evidence-driven approach to social issues, as well as gain the interpersonal communication skills necessary to craft persuasive narratives grounded in critical thought.” |
Western Kentucky University
Accredited by SACS |
“A major in sociology leads to a bachelor of arts degree and requires a minimum of ten courses (31 semester hours) in sociology including six required courses. A student works closely with an advisor to develop an individualized program to fit his or her personal interests and career goals.” |
Louisiana Tech University
Accredited by SACS |
“A Sociology degree will prepare a student for graduate professional training in sociology or related disciplines. Many students pursue advanced degrees in applied areas of study such as criminal justice, social work, counseling, gerontology, human relations, law, the military, public administration, social work, teaching, etc.” |
University of Southern Maine
Accredited by NEASC |
“Studying sociology will expand your skills in critical thinking, writing, and analysis through an exploration of social problems and social change. An undergraduate major in sociology offers valuable preparation for careers in social work, social research, criminal justice, community organizing, business, and education. The major also provides an excellent basis for graduate study in sociology, law, public policy, and social work.” |
University of Maryland
Accredited by MSCHE |
The University of Maryland’s Sociology undergraduate degree program focuses on enhancing students’ understanding of sociological theory, research, and data as a means to explain social phenomena and to assess social policy. This program consists of a minimum of 120 credit hours, with at least 35 credit hours dedicated to the sociology major. |
University of Massachusetts Boston
Accredited by NEASC |
“The Sociology major provides an overview of dynamic social forces that impact us every day, including population density and behavior, immigration, social inequality, globalization, and cultural differences. Individual courses address the workings of many core societal institutions: the workplace, the family, the health care and criminal justice systems, and the media. The curriculum can help focus your interests, identify your area of specialization, gain experience in a related work environment, and ultimately select a career path.” |
University of Michigan
Accredited by HLC |
“The Sociology major will provide you with the tools you need to understand today’s most vexing social problems. From inequality to immigration, from poverty to mass incarceration, Sociology teaches skills for thinking critically, collecting and interpreting data, and making evidence-based arguments.” |
University of Minnesota
Accredited by HLC |
“A degree in sociology offers you the opportunity to develop analytical and critical thinking skills, quantitative and qualitative research skills, written and oral communication abilities, cultural competence, and a big picture perspective. These skills are beneficial for today’s multi-cultural and dynamic job market as well as foundational for success in graduate or professional school in a wide range of fields.” |
University of Southern Mississippi
Accredited by SACS |
“In sociology, you learn to use scientific research methods to explore a wide variety of topics, including the organization of human interaction, the influence of groups on behavior, the structure of societies, patterns of social change, and the role of institutions in social life. Students of sociology seek to understand the world around them from a historical, critical perspective, and the tools gained from studying sociology are relevant to both personal and occupational success.” |
University of Missouri
Accredited by HLC |
The Sociology undergraduate degree at the University of Missouri focuses on developing students’ awareness of how human interactions, motivations, and accomplishments are affected by social inequalities. In this program, students can take classes like Social Deviance, The Family, and Politics of the Media. |
University of Montana
Accredited by NWCCU |
The University of Montana offers an undergraduate sociology degree that is designed to prepare students for graduate study and/or career opportunities in areas like sociology, law, social work, education, counseling, politics, and public administration.This program gives students the option to pursue specialized tracks in Criminology, Inequality and Social Justice, or Rural and Environmental Change. |
University of Nebraska Lincoln
Accredited by HLC |
“A major in Sociology provides students with vital skills, including analytical thinking, creative problem solving, and effective written and oral communication, making meaning out of data through analyses, and greater understanding of social and cultural differences among people. We encourage students to take courses that interest them most, which are relevant to a wide variety of career paths. Students may pursue broad training in sociology or may pursue one of our five focus areas: Crime/Deviance; Family; Health; Inequality; and Social Research.” |
University of Nevada, Reno
Accredited by NWCCU |
“Courses offered examine the development of social classes, gender roles, racial prejudices, social analysis of politics, economic structure, the development of modern industrial society, religion, law and a variety of other issues relevant to the study of society and social structure. These topics are studied at two different levels: theoretical understanding of major social issues through critical analysis and practical application of research skills through training in statistics and research methods.” |
Southern New Hampshire University
Accredited by NEASC |
“Southern New Hampshire University’s sociology major emphasizes professional practices as well as academics, with a career orientation and experiential learning approach. Our BA in Sociology provides the opportunity for first-person experience in analyzing and dealing with processes, problems and institutions of modern society.” |
Montclair State University
Accredited by MSCHE |
The BA in Sociology at Montclair State University aims to prepare students for graduate study and career opportunities in this field. This program consists of a minimum of 120 credits and includes classes like Sociology of Emotions, Large Scale Organizations, and Individual and Society. |
University of New Mexico
Accredited by HLC |
At the University of New Mexico, students can earn an undergraduate Sociologgy degree with the option to pursue a concentration in Pre-Law or Human Services and Social Policy. Students in this program can take classes like Sociology of Madness, Community Organizing, Social Dynamics of Global Change, and Couples, Family, and Friendship. |
New York University
Accredited by MSCHE |
“NYU’s Department of Sociology reflects the diversity of our discipline. The faculty includes experts in a wide range of subjects, including crime, law, and deviance; sex, gender, and the family; organizations, occupations, and work; immigration; justice; science, politics, social protest, and social policy; power and inequality in modern societies; welfare, culture, and education;and social theory. Those planning a professional career or graduate study in sociology or another social science will find a wide range of useful and interesting courses.” |
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Accredited by SACS |
“The undergraduate major in sociology at UNC–Chapel Hill provides students with theoretical and methodological tools, and substantive insights for understanding human social life and institutions. The curriculum and requirements are flexible enough to permit students to tailor their program to fit individual needs and interests. The undergraduate sociology program includes opportunities to put sociological ideas into practice through research by means of independent studies, theses, and internships.” |
University of North Dakota
Accredited by HLC |
The BA in Sociology at the University of North Dakota aims to provide students with an essential theory and methods background, while also being flexible to accomodate individual student interests. In this program, students can take classes like Aging, Social Psychology, Drugs and Society, and Sociology of Gender and Sex Roles. |
Ohio University
Accredited by HLC |
“The Sociology major is designed for students who seek to develop a rigorous understanding of research methods, sociological theories, and how everyday lives and actions are influenced by broader social structures, contexts and processes.Those with degrees in Sociology find meaningful and rewarding employment as consultants to business and government, social change agents (e.g., community organizers), politicians, and educators. An undergraduate major in Sociology is excellent preparation for those anticipating graduate study in law, social welfare, business administration, journalism, and many technical and scientific fields.” |
University of Oklahoma
Accredited by HLC |
“The Department of Sociology at OU offers two tracks within the sociology major: the general sociology option and the criminology option. The general sociology option gives students a broad education in the field of sociology, and students can select any type of upper-division sociology electives to complete the major. By contrast, the criminology option focuses on criminology, a specialized area within sociology, so students on this track take upper-division electives that focus on the nature, extent, causes, and control of criminal behavior.” |
University of Oregon
Accredited by NWCCU |
“The undergraduate program in sociology at the University of Oregon is designed to provide a broad understanding of human society for students in all fields as well as integrated and more advanced programs for sociology majors. It is also a popular choice for students in other fields who wish to double major or minor in an area of study that will enhance their understanding of society and the behavior of people. With 48 credits in the major and 24 credits in the minor, there is plenty of room to take sociology while completing many other academic programs.” |
Pennsylvania State University
Accredited by MSCHE |
At Penn State University, students can earn a BA or BS in Sociology degree, with the option to also earn a Crime, Law, and Society Certificate. The general sociology degree is designed to develop students understanding of sociology, sociological theory and research methods. The additional Crime, Law, and Society Certificate is best suited for students who wish to pursue careers in criminal justice system, or who plan to attend law school or graduate school. |
University of Rhode Island
Accredited by NEASC |
“The Bachelor of Arts in sociology curriculum at URI is rich in: the analysis of inequality, the examination of the structural constraints of life, and a humanistic appreciation for cultural diversity. Sociology at URI provides the substantive background and analytic and technology skills necessary for success in 21st-century careers and for thoughtful and engaged citizenship.” |
University of South Carolina
Accredited by SACS |
“Studying sociology gives you research, communication, and analytical skills you need to succeed in today’s marketplace. Our graduates have gone into careers in education, law, social work, human resources, counseling and health-related professions. We offer both a Bachelor of the Arts and a Bachelor of Science in addition to our minor program.” |
South Dakota State University
Accredited by HLC |
“The mission of the Department of Sociology & Rural Studies is to provide students with the theoretical and substantive knowledge to participate as skilled professionals within the institutions and organizations that shape our increasingly diverse and global society. Sociology majors manage programs and people, provide services in a variety of settings, analyze and collect data, and pursue careers in law enforcement and victim services. The major offers flexibility and can easily be added to another major.” |
Tennessee State University
Accredited by SACS |
“The Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology, while not limited to this population, is designed especially for students who require flexible scheduling options and are unable to attend traditional classes. Students who successfully complete this degree acquire a broad understanding of social processes, social institutions, and group behavior, and strong analytical skills that are highly prized in the worlds of business, industry, and local, state, and federal government and community organizations. This degree is also good preparation for graduate or professional school (e.g., Law or MBA).” |
University of Tennessee Knoxville
Accredited by SACS |
“We conduct research and teach in the interest areas of: criminology, critical race and ethic studies, envirionmental issues and globalization, and political economy and globalization. Students develop an understanding of both everyday social behavior and the structural factors that contribute to social injustices. In the seminar room and in the field, students also acquire the intellectual tools to identify and critically analyze social phenomena and trends, along with the methodological tools to conduct rigorous research.” |
Texas State University
Accredited by SACS |
“The Sociology Department offers 30 to 35 different courses annually to our undergraduate students. Students at Texas State University may acquire a B.A. in Sociology or a B.S. in Applied Sociology, which entails an excellent internship program. The faculty takes pride in the teaching reputation of the department.” |
Texas Tech University
Accredited by SACS |
The BA in Sociology degree program at Texas Tech University is designed to prepare students for graduate study and career opportunities in areas like business, law, government, international development, medicine, and social services. In this program, students can gain an understanding of interpersonal relations in families, the growth of cities and complex organizations, international relations, and more. |
University of Utah
Accredited by NWCCU |
“Students completing a degree in sociology will: 1) Understand what sociology is, as a social science discipline, 2) Utilize sociological theories to guide research and improve understanding of social phenomenon and human behavior, 3) Learn to use a variety of research methods as a means of understanding the social world and human interaction, 4) Apply sociological and social-science perspectives to the understanding of real-world problems or topics, and 5) Communicate effectively about sociological issues, making well-organized arguments supported by relevant evidence.” |
Westminster College
Accredited by NWCCU |
“As one of the most flexible and interdisciplinary programs at Westminster, the Sociology program truly allows you to customize your learning. Throughout the program, you will hone your critical, analytical, and integrative thinking skills, and have opportunities to evaluate, design, and conduct social research projects. When you graduate, you’ll have the skills you need to excel in many different graduate programs, professional programs, and careers.” |
University of Vermont
Accredited by NEASC |
The University of Vermont’s BA in Sociology degree program is designed to provide students with the research, presentation, and people skills. These skills can prepare students for graduate study and career opportunities in sociology and related fields such as law, business, education, medicine, urban or rural planning. Students can choose to pursue a concentration in Social Gerontology or Crime and Criminal Justice. |
University of Virginia
Accredited by SACS |
“The Department of Sociology at the University of Virginia is committed to a program of research and teaching that is both firmly grounded in the classical tradition of the discipline and addressed to contemporary issues. The Department’s intellectual distinction is based on work that is macro-sociological, theoretically driven, and empirically grounded. While theoretically varied, our work is fully empirical and draws on a broad array of quantitative and qualitative approaches.” |
Virginia Commonwealth University
Accredited by SACS |
“The baccalaureate curriculum in sociology seeks to ensure that each student develops a solid foundation in the basic principles, theories and techniques of analysis in sociology. In addition to the University requirements for an undergraduate degree, coursework for sociology majors consists of 33 hours to include: Introduction to Sociology, Foundations of Theory, Research Methods in the Social Sciences, Contemporary Theory, Sociology Senior Seminar, and 18 credit hours of upper level approved electives.” |
Washington State University
Accredited by NWCCU |
“Students majoring in Sociology will complete core courses in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics, as well as a capstone research or internship course. Substantive elective sociology courses are taken by majors and minors, and include Social Inequality, Social Movements, Education, Gender, Family, Juvenile Delinquency, Deviance, Criminology, Addictions, Environment, and Film (among others).” |
West Virginia State Univeristy
Accredited by HLC |
“In addition to preparing students for graduate school, the sociology curriculum is of value to any student who desires to work with people. It forms an excellent background for those who desire careers in the areas of social services (e.g., youth services), family counseling, law, ministry, government services, teaching, policymaking, population research, personnel management, industrial policies, marketing, criminal justice, etc.” |
West Virginia University
Accredited by HLC |
“Broaden your perspectives on the origin, development, organization and functioning of society with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. Students examine human society with an emphasis on social structure, processes of social interaction, and social change. Students learn the methods of social science as well as the specialized knowledge and insights of discipline while selecting from a range of substantive course topics.” |
University of Wisconsin Madison
Accredited by HLC |
“Students who major in sociology learn to deal creatively with new and challenging problems, conducting research, developing analytical and critical thinking skills, and learning to communicate ideas effectively both orally and in writing. Because it is a such broad field of inquiry, sociology majors are equipped to enter a wide range of occupational areas, including corporations, government agencies, social service institutions, and law enforcement agencies. An undergraduate sociology major is also an excellent foundation for graduate study.” |
University of Wyoming
Accredited by HLC |
“UW’s department researches and teaches social movements, social stratification, crime, religion, the evolution of social behavior, politics, globalization, immigration, and health. A degree in Sociology prepares our students for a broad range of career options as well as graduate and professional studies. For example, some of our former students currently work in state and federal government departments/centers, find employment as research analysts, or pursue various careers in public health.” |
Here is a brief snapshot of what to expect and look forward to with a bachelor’s degree in sociology.
Quick Facts | |
---|---|
Common Pre-Enrollment Requirements: | High School Diploma or GED (associate’s degree is optional) |
Common Core Subjects Covered: | Sociology, Social Inequalities, Sociological Research, Social Organization |
Non-Classwork Required: | Internship is typically required, sometimes optional |
Expected Time to Complete Bachelor’s Degree: | 4 years |
Common Next Steps: | Entry-Level Position, Master’s Degree |
Most Common Career Fields: | Social Service, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Healthcare, Business |
Sociology is a vast field that can lead to a plethora of graduate study and career opportunities. As a result, most schools give undergraduate students the option to pursue a variety of concentrations within a sociological context. The most commonly offered programs and concentrations are listed below:
Accreditation is important for all degrees, ensuring you receive a qualified education. The accrediting bodies featured in our list are: