In this article, we profile the 30 best online bachelor’s in sociology degrees at some of the nation’s top-ranked institutions.
Today’s increasingly interconnected world and rapidly changing job market call for skills in:
Featured Programs
- analytic problem solving
- critical thinking
- multicultural and global understanding
Employers are looking to hire people with excellent verbal and written expression and the ability to work sensitively with diverse populations. Sociology programs are designed to equip students with the skills needed to contribute intelligently to our globalizing world.
Methodology
We reviewed 55 accredited institutions that offere online bachelor’s in sociology degree programs. From our list, we examined rankings from major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. Most of the colleges and universities on our list have earned national or regional rankings from at least one major publication. We then selected the most affordable schools based on recent undergraduate tuition rates listed by NCES College Navigator. The most affordable school ranks #1 on our list.
Below are the resulting selections for our 30 best online bachelor’s in sociology degrees.
30. Brandman University
Irvine, California
Undergraduate tuition: $12,240
For those interested in an accredited online bachelor’s in sociology program, Brandman University offers a related degree. The online bachelor’s in social science program provides students with studies in cultural, economic, organizational, political, and social processes. The program offers an integrated approach to improve critical thinking skills. It provides a strong knowledge base in various social science disciplines, including sociology. Areas of concentration include:
- criminal justice
- history
- political science
- sociology
These allow students to customize the degree. Brandman is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges lists the online bachelor’s programs 47th in the country.
29. Park University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Parkville, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition: $11,470
The affordable online sociology bachelor’s degree programs from Park University are offered face-to-face, online, or as an extended learning program. For those needing flexible options, the online bachelor’s in sociology can be finished by completing 42 credit hours. Classes are delivered entirely online and include:
- ethical issues in sociology
- introduction to sociology
- social issues in contemporary society
- social psychology
A comprehensive exam must also be taken during the student’s senior year. Park University is a regionally ranked university in the Midwest. U.S. News ranks the school as a top institution. Also, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists Park University as having the 183rd best online bachelor’s programs in the country.
28. Northern Arizona University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Flagstaff, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition: $10,358
Northern Arizona University offers an accredited online sociology bachelor degree that is designed for working and busy students. The program is offered entirely online. Students have the flexibility needed to take classes without giving up their day job or struggling to balance life obligations while attending school. Online courses include:
- family issues and social change
- introduction to sociology
- race and ethnic relations
- social problems
- topics in contemporary social issues
Northern Arizona University is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report list the school as a best national university. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #159 in the nation.
27. Arizona State University
Online BS in Sociology
Tempe, Arizona
Undergraduate tuition: $10,158
Arizona State University’s online sociology bachelor’s programs are offered as part of the School of Social and Family Dynamics. In addition to the liberal arts education focus, students enrolled in the sociology program develop strong research and critical thinking skills. The program is designed for busy students who require the flexibility online learning offers. All classes are delivered online and include:
- gender and health in today’s society
- politics of race
- religion
- research methods
ASU is ranked by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News lists the school as the 129th best national university and the #1 most innovative institution. The online bachelor’s programs rank #11 and the graduate sociology school ranks #59.
26. Oregon State University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Corvallis, Oregon
Undergraduate tuition: $10,107
Oregon State University offers an accredited online sociology bachelor degree program that explores the study of human society and social interaction. All classes are delivered online and have been developed by the university’s distinguished faculty. Online classes include:
- crime and justice
- environmental sociology
- population trends and policy
- sociology of education
The school is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. It’s ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. OSU is ranked as the 135th best national university and the 68th top public school. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #7 in the nation.
25. Western Kentucky University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Undergraduate tuition: $9,482
Western Kentucky University’s online sociology bachelor’s degree program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to pursue a career in sociology. It is also good preparation for a graduate level sociology program. Coursework is delivered entirely online and includes classes in:
- contemporary social problems
- introduction to sociology
- sociological theory – perspectives on society
- strategies of social research
- using statistics in sociology
Western Kentucky University is an accredited institution that is also ranked by major publications. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school #31 for best regional universities in the South. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs are ranked #3 in the nation.
24. Westfield State University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Westfield, Massachusetts
Undergraduate tuition: $8,815
Westfield State University offers an affordable online bachelor degree in sociology that may be completed without any campus visits. The program is designed for graduates of the Massachusetts Community Colleges who have transfer credit that allows them to enroll as a junior. Students take the same courses as offered on campus. Online classes may include:
- principles of sociology
- research methods
- sociological theory
A capstone in sociology and an internship may also be required. Westfield is a ranked and accredited institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 116th best regional university in the North. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #58 in the nation.
23. Saint Leo University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Saint Leo, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $8,730
Saint Leo University’s School of Arts and Science offers an online sociology bachelor degree program for busy students who want to earn a degree without attending traditional classes. All courses are delivered online and include:
- building a multiracial society
- human ecology
- methods of social research
- sociological theory
A comprehensive examination in sociology is required to graduate from the program. Saint Leo is a top-ranked institution by major publications like Forbes and U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 71st best regional university in the South. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #43 in the nation.
22. University of Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Denver, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition: $8,692
University of Colorado offers an affordable online sociology bachelor’s degree program that prepares students with the skills needed for entry-level sociology careers or graduate programs. All classes are delivered online and cover topics in:
- globalization and family dynamics
- race and ethnicity
- social class stratification
The program is accredited and considered to be one of the more affordable on our list. Also, UC-Denver is a nationally ranked institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 199th best national university and the 116th top public school. Globally, the institution ranks #194 in the world.
21. Central Washington University
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Ellensburg, Washington
Undergraduate tuition: $8,688
Central Washington University (CWU) offers an affordable online sociology bachelor degree that requires 45 credits to complete the major. Classes are delivered online and taught by the same faculty who teach on campus. Courses include:
- data analysis in sociology
- methods of social research
- principles of sociology
- social theory
Students are also required to select one course from three different categories, which include:
- deviance, law, and social control
- inequality and social change
- social structure and institutions
CWU is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 52nd best regional university in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #195 in the country.
20. Columbia College
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Columbia, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition: $8,240
Columbia College’s online bachelor’s degree in sociology is an affordable program designed to equip students for careers in:
- advocacy
- government
- teaching
Courses are delivered online and explore topics such as:
- crime
- poverty
- racism
- sexism
- social movements
Online courses may include:
- American social problems
- cultural anthropology
- environment and society
- religion and society
- social deviance
- sports and society
A six semester-hour foreign language requirement is also needed to complete the program. Columbia College is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the current edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as having the 106th best online bachelor’s programs in the nation.
19. University of Northern Colorado
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Greeley, Colorado
Undergraduate tuition: $8,166
University of Northern Colorado offers an online bachelor’s in sociology program for working and busy students. The online program follows the same curriculum as found in the on-campus sociology program, with courses taught by the same distinguished professors. Online courses may include:
- classical social theory
- contemporary social theory
- introduction to sociological practice
- methods of sociological research
Four concentrations are available, including:
- deviance, crime, and delinquency
- family
- inequalities and institutions
- social psychology and life course
The school and its programs are accredited and ranked by major publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the online bachelor’s programs #179 in the nation.
18. North Dakota State University
Online BS in Sociology
Fargo, North Dakota
Undergraduate tuition: $8,098
The affordable online bachelor’s degree in sociology program offered at North Dakota State University prepares students who are considering a graduate degree in sociology. The program is designed to provide a solid sociological foundation through:
- classes
- projects
- small group interaction
Classes are delivered entirely online and include:
- cultural diversity
- development of social theory
- introduction to sociology
- social interaction
- social problems
- social research methods
The school is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks North Dakota State as the 185th best national university and the 103rd top public school.
17. Lamar University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Beaumont, Texas
Undergraduate tuition: $8,002
Lamar University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in sociology program that provides a solid foundation in:
- data analysis skills
- research methods
- sociological theory
Classes are delivered entirely online and follow the same content as those taught in the classroom. In fact, the same professors who teach on-campus also teach online. Online courses include:
- introduction to sociology
- marriage and family
- race and ethnic relations
- sociology of gender
- urban sociology
Lamar is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #58 in the country.
16. Troy University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Troy, Alabama
Undergraduate tuition: $7,924
For those interested in pursuing an accredited online bachelor’s degree in a social science like sociology, Troy University offers an affordable option. Students explore various sociological topics and learn to put curriculum into practice as they embark on a career in teaching or research. The program also equips students with the skills required to pursue an advanced sociology degree. Online courses include:
- cultural anthropology
- gender in America
- introduction to sociology
- marriage and sociology
Troy University is a regionally ranked institution by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as the 65th best regional university in the South. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #100 in the country.
15. University of North Alabama
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Florence, Alabama
Undergraduate tuition: $7,774
University of North Alabama offers a unique online bachelor degree in sociology that allows students to minor in five different areas. Depending on interests and career goals, students may minor in:
- family studies
- history
- management
- marketing
- political sciences
All sociology classes are delivered online and include:
- current social problems
- introduction to sociology
- juvenile delinquency
- marriage and the family
- parenting and socialization
- sociology of gender and sexual behavior
The university is regionally ranked and accredited. U.S. News and World Report lists the institution as the 71st best regional university in the South and the 32nd top public school.
14. Wichita State University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Wichita, Kansas
Undergraduate tuition: $7,528
Wichita State University’s online sociology bachelor degree program provides a flexible option for busy and working students. Classes are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who teach in the traditional classroom. Online courses include:
- introduction to social research
- introduction to sociology
- measurements and analysis
- sociological statistics
- sociological theory
- The program equips students with the skills needed to enter a graduate level sociology program or pursue a sociological career. Wichita State is a nationally ranked university. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as among the best. In fact, the school’s online bachelor’s programs rank #159 in the nation.
13. McNeese State University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Undergraduate tuition: $7,290
McNeese State University offers an affordable online bachelor degree in sociology program that provides adult learners with flexible learning options that do not disrupt life obligations. Admission to the sociology program at McNeese is reserved for non-traditional students 25 years of age and older, or those who have difficulty juggling job, family, and school. All classes are delivered online and include:
- introduction to sociology
- policy and analysis
- research methods in sociology
- statistics
McNeese is an accredited and ranked institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 87th best regional university in the South and the 42nd top public school.
12. Tennessee State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Nashville, Tennessee
Undergraduate tuition: $7,112
Tennessee State University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in sociology degree program. It equips students with the foundation needed to work in sociology-related careers or enter a graduate-level program. All classes are delivered online. They include a core sociology component and 12 hours of sociology electives. Courses may include:
- classical sociological theory
- contemporary sociological theory
- introduction to social research
- introduction to sociology
- social statistics
The university is nationally ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News lists the institution as the 21st best historically black college or university and one of the best national universities in the country.
11. West Texas A&M University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Canyon, Texas
Undergraduate tuition: $7,041
West Texas A&M University’s online sociology degree is designed for those interested in an online bachelor’s degree in social science. Students may pursue the bachelor of arts or bachelor of science track, depending on education goals and interests. All classes are delivered online and include courses that explore:
- the development of human society
- human social behavior
- the study of origins
Students may be required to complete an internship in a social agency, which satisfies the sociology practicum requirement. West Texas A&M is a regionally ranked institution. Major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report rank the school as among the best regional universities in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s degree programs are ranked #11 in the nation.
10. CUNY School of Professional Studies
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
New York, New York
Undergraduate tuition: $6,760
For those interested in pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in social science that focuses on sociology, CUNY School of Professional Studies provides an option. The online bachelor’s in sociology degree program shapes students into:
- researchers
- law students
- educators
Online courses make the major a flexible program for working students who are unable to attend traditional daytime classes. Sociology classes include:
- introduction to sociology
- critical thinking
- social problems
- urban life and culture
The institution is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as a best regional college.
9. University of Nebraska
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Kearney, Nebraska
Undergraduate tuition: $6,711
The University of Nebraska offers an accredited and affordable online bachelor’s degree in social science that focuses on sociology. The program is delivered entirely online with courses taught by the same university professors who teach at the Kearney campus. Online courses include:
- behavioral statistics
- global cultures and diversity
- introduction to sociology
- social inequality
- social psychology
- sociological inquiry
- sociological theory
Students have access to coursework at all hours of the day and are not tied to specific class times. University of Nebraska is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the publication ranks the school as the 46th best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the school is ranked #11 for top public schools and #34 for best colleges for veterans.
8. University of Central Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Orlando, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $6,368
University of Central Florida’s accredited online bachelor’s in sociology program prepares students for careers in sociology or for graduate level social science programs. All classes are delivered online and are taught by university professors with research and extensive teaching background. Online courses include:
- applied social statistics
- data analysis
- research methods
- social theory
Students may enroll in a 3 to 6 credit-hour internship per term as long as the department coordinator has approved the opportunity. A maximum of 12 credits may be earned for the internship. University of Central Florida ranks as the 168th best national university. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs are ranked #20 in the country.
7. Kennesaw State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Kennesaw, Georgia
Undergraduate tuition: $6,060
Kennesaw State University’s online bachelor degree in sociology program is designed for career preparation and graduate school admissions. Students take various sociological classes that explore:
- problem solving
- critical thinking
- community awareness
Students also become skilled in data analysis and research. All courses are delivered online and include:
- cultural diversity in the U.S.
- human communication
- intersections of race and gender
- professional development for sociology students
- social problems
Students also have the option of selecting a concentration in an area of interest. Concentrations include:
- criminology
- cultural diversity
- medical sociology
- organizational and social change
Kennesaw is a regionally ranked institution by U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online bachelor’s programs rank #143 in the country.
6. University of North Carolina Pembroke
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Pembroke, North Carolina
Undergraduate tuition: $5,564
University of North Carolina at Pembroke is a regionally ranked university. It offers an accredited online bachelor degree in social sciences. Students may choose from criminal justice or sociology. Those enrolled in the online bachelor’s in sociology program explore a wide range of topics specific to the field. Students also explore current research methods and learn how to analyze and synthesize data and statistics. Online courses include:
- computers and society
- development and globalization
- introduction to sociology
- social inequalities
- sociological writing and rhetoric
UNC-Pembroke is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 93rd best regional university in the South.
5. Central Methodist University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Fayette, Missouri
Undergraduate tuition: $5,280
Central Methodist University offers an affordable online sociology bachelor degree that equips students with the knowledge needed to enter a graduate level sociology program or work as an applied sociologist. Classes are delivered online and include:
- gender and sexuality
- introduction to sociology
- race and ethnicity in the United States
- research design and data analysis
- social theory
Students complete a thesis and sociology senior seminar during the last year of the program. The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 36th best regional college in the Midwest. Other rankings include #25 for best colleges for veterans.
4. University of Texas Permian Basin
Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Odessa, Texas
Undergraduate tuition: $5,250
The University of Texas at Permian Basin offers online sociology bachelor’s degrees that may be completed in four years. All classes are delivered online. They require a total of 120 credits composed of at least 34 sociology major courses. Online classes include:
- introduction to sociology
- introductory statistics
- social determinants of energy use
- social research methods
- social stratification
- women’s studies
UT Permian Basin is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school among the best regional universities in the West. Also, the online bachelor’s programs, including sociology, rank #92 in the country.
3. Fayetteville State University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Undergraduate tuition: $4,885
The Department of Sociology at Fayetteville State University offers an affordable online sociology bachelor’s degree program that prepares students for careers in:
- education
- government
- law
- the private sector
Currently, the program is for students who have completed most of their prerequisites, including 100 and 200-level courses. Online classes include:
- contemporary social theory
- history of sociological thought
- marriage and family relations
- sociology of education
- sociology of work
Fayetteville State is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2016 edition of Best Colleges lists the school as the 84th best regional university in the South. For those interested in graduate programs, the institution’s graduate social work school ranks #220 in the country.
2. Fort Hays State University
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Hays, Kansas
Undergraduate tuition: $4,654
The accredited online bachelor degree in sociology at Fort Hays State University is for busy students who need flexible education options. Classes are delivered entirely online and include 21 core sociology courses. In addition to the BA or BS in Sociology degree, students may choose from seven online certificate programs. These allow a more in-depth understanding of topics like:
- community development
- nonprofit corporations
- sociology of aging
Sociology courses include:
- advanced sociological research
- grant proposal development
- methods of social research
- principles of culture
Fort Hays offers an affordable sociology program that is also ranked. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school’s online bachelor’s programs #24 in the nation.
1. University of Florida
Online Bachelor’s in Sociology
Gainesville, Florida
Undergraduate tuition: $3,876
The most affordable online bachelor’s in sociology program on our list is found at the University of Florida. Through coursework and instruction, students receive a liberal arts education that emphasizes diverse social causes and the consequences of human behavior. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same professors who teach on-campus. Online courses include:
- development of social thought
- methods of social research
- principles of sociology
A total of 120 credits are required to complete the degree. The University of Florida is a nationally ranked institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as the 47th best national university and the 14th top public school in the country. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #11 and the graduate sociology school ranks #52 in the nation. Due to the affordable tuition costs, University of Florida is our #1 pick for an online bachelor’s in sociology degree.
Related Resources:
- What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree?
- What Is A Good Career Path for A Sociology Major?
- What Specific Skills Should A Sociology Major Possess?
- What Will I Study in an Online Bachelor’s in Sociology Degree Program?
- 5 Careers in Sociology That You Can Feel Good About
- 5 Economic Sociology Careers
- 5 High-Paying Careers for Sociology Majors