Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online bachelor's in sociology?

A student pursuing an online bachelor's degree in sociology can expect a comprehensive program that delves into social behavior, institutions, and the complexities of societal issues using sociological theories and research methods.

Core coursework often covers topics such as social inequality, culture, gender, race and ethnicity, deviance, and social change. Students may also have opportunities to specialize in areas like criminology, social work, or social justice, tailoring their education to specific interests within the field.

The program emphasizes developing critical thinking, communication, data analysis, and applied research skills essential for understanding and addressing social challenges. With flexible and often asynchronous class schedules, students can balance their studies alongside work and personal commitments.

Graduates emerge prepared for diverse career paths in sectors such as social services, community outreach, human resources, research, or further academic study, equipped with a strong foundation in analyzing and impacting social dynamics and communities.

Where can I work with an online bachelor's in sociology?

A graduate with an online bachelor's degree in sociology can work in a wide range of fields that require strong skills in research, communication, critical thinking, and understanding of social behavior. While some roles may require additional training or graduate education, many entry-level opportunities are available across various sectors.

Below are the most common work settings:

• Social and Human Services Agencies: Graduates often work as case managers, support specialists, or program coordinators, helping individuals and families access social services, housing, healthcare, and counseling.
• Nonprofit Organizations: Many sociology graduates find roles in advocacy, fundraising, outreach, or program management for organizations focused on issues like poverty, education, human rights, or community development.
• Government and Public Sector: Graduates can work in local, state, or federal agencies as policy assistants, community outreach workers, or public health aides, supporting social research, planning, and service delivery.
• Education and Youth Services: With additional certification, some graduates become educators or work in administrative or counseling roles within schools, after-school programs, or youth development organizations.
• Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement: Those with a specialization in criminology may pursue roles such as probation officers, corrections counselors, or research assistants in criminal justice agencies.
• Market Research and Data Analysis: Graduates skilled in research and statistics may work in data collection, consumer behavior analysis, or public opinion polling for private firms, think tanks, or consulting agencies.
• Healthcare and Public Health: Sociology graduates may support health education, community health programs, or patient advocacy efforts, especially in roles focused on addressing health disparities and social determinants of health.
• Human Resources and Corporate Settings: In the business world, sociology graduates may work in recruitment, training, diversity and inclusion, or employee relations roles that require an understanding of workplace dynamics and social interaction.
• Urban Planning and Housing Services: Graduates may assist with planning, housing advocacy, or community development projects in city planning departments or nonprofit housing agencies.
• Media, Communications, and Public Relations: With strong writing and communication skills, sociology graduates can work in journalism, content creation, social media management, or public relations, especially on social issues.

How much can I make with an online bachelor's in sociology?

Sociology majors who have entered the working realm but have yet to earn a graduate degree usually become social service specialists. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary of these professionals is $62,980, while their median yearly salary is $57,480. These are considered decent sums, given that the collective median yearly salary of all jobs in the country is $49,500.

Social service specialists typically earn between $37,830 and $96,620 per year in their careers. Entry-level jobs and starting job grades receive salaries at the lower end of the given pay range, as they work their way up financially through experience and promotions. On the other hand, tenured specialists who work in large enterprises likely earn far more than the average yearly salary. 

Aspirants often pursue a graduate degree to become sociologists, who earn considerably more than social service specialists. The BLS reports that these professionals earn an average yearly salary of $111,670 and a median yearly salary of $101,690.

Best Online Bachelor's in Sociology Programs for 2025

1. University of Florida Bachelor of Arts In Sociology

The University of Florida’s Online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program provides students with a liberal arts education focused on understanding the social causes and effects of human behavior. The program offers coursework in areas like criminology, medical sociology, social psychology, and urban sociology, preparing graduates for careers in fields such as public health, human resources, criminal justice, and marketing. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $129.18 (in-state); $552.62 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

2. University of Central Florida Online Sociology, BA/BS

The University of Central Florida offers an online Bachelor of Arts or Science in Sociology that requires 120 credit hours and is designed to help students understand human behavior and social systems. The program develops critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through courses in topics like social theory, crime, and deviance, and includes a capstone project focused on data analysis. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $179.19 (in-state); $715.80 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

3. Florida International University Online Bachelor of Arts Sociology Major, Global Studies

Florida International University offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a Global Studies concentration, requiring 120 credits to graduate. The program explores the interconnections between culture, politics, economy, and the environment in a global context while developing students' skills in research, data analysis, statistical sampling, and social mapping. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $235.57 (in-state); $648.87 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

4. Arizona State University Online Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Sociology offers a research-focused curriculum that examines social behavior, group interactions, and institutional structures across race, class, gender, and more. The 120-credit program emphasizes sociological theory, data analysis, and real-world applications in areas such as health, aging, technology, and workplace dynamics. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $574
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

5. Fort Hays State University Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Fort Hays State University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Sociology, providing a flexible and affordable education for students worldwide. The 120-credit program includes general education, core sociology courses, and diverse electives covering topics like gender, social inequality, medical sociology, and nonprofit organizations. It also has a strong emphasis on research, cultural understanding, and applied skills like grant writing.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $243
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

6. University of Missouri Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

The University of Missouri offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology that equips students to analyze human behavior, social patterns, and the influence of social structures. The program emphasizes research skills, critical thinking, and cultural awareness, with coursework covering group dynamics, inequality, and societal change. Graduates are prepared for careers in community planning, public policy, human resources.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $597.60
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

7. Kennesaw State University Bachelor of Science in Sociology Degree

Kennesaw State University’s Bachelor of Science in Sociology is available fully online or in person and prepares students to navigate diversity, modernization, and social change on local and global levels. The curriculum emphasizes skills such as communication, data analysis, problem-solving, and critical thinking. This degree also serves as a strong foundation for graduate studies in fields like sociology, public health, social work, and law.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Concentrations:
  • Culture and Social Change
  • Criminology
  • Medical Sociology
  • General Sociology
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $190 (in-state); $701 (out-of-state); $721 (international)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

8. University of North Alabama Bachelor's Degree in Sociology

The University of North Alabama offers a Bachelor of Arts or Science in Sociology, available fully online or on campus, with options to specialize in Family Life Education, Non-Profit Management, or Industrial Leadership. Students are prepared for careers in areas such as public health, criminal justice, policy, business, and community non-profits, working as researchers, counselors, advocates, and more.

• Program Length: 4 years
• Concentrations:
  • Family Life Education
  • Nonprofit Management
  • Industrial Leadership
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $340 (in-state); $680 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

9. Fayetteville State University Sociology (Online BA)

Fayetteville State University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology that mirrors its on-campus counterpart in both quality and curriculum. Students gain a strong foundation in core sociology areas like theory, research methods, and social inequality, while also developing valuable transferable skills such as communication, research, and cross-cultural understanding. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $41.67 (NC resident); $104.17 (outside NC); $208.34 (non NC resident)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

10. Tennessee State University Bachelor of Science in Sociology

Tennessee State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Sociology explores how social forces shape human beliefs, behaviors, and group interactions. The 120-credit program includes general education, core sociology courses, upper-division electives, and emphasizes the development of critical thinking and research competencies. 

• Program Length: 4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 120
• Cost per Credit: $291 (in-state); $836 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How long does it take to complete an online bachelor's in sociology?

An online bachelor's in sociology typically takes four years to complete for full-time students. This standard timeline includes approximately 120 credit hours of coursework, covering general education, core sociology classes, and electives.

Students exploring healthcare or coordination-focused pathways, such as the best online MSN in care coordination programs, may find sociology courses in public health, community studies, or social services particularly relevant. The flexibility of online programs allows students to customize their pace, making it easier to balance education with personal and professional obligations.

Part-time students may take 5 to 6 years to finish the program, depending on their course load each term and other commitments such as work or family responsibilities. Meanwhile, some schools offer accelerated formats or accept transfer credits, which can shorten the timeline to as little as 2 to 3 years for eligible students.

Community health workers, including social service specialists—a popular career choice of sociology majors—mostly hold bachelor's degrees. According to College Board, 51.88% earned a bachelor's degree, 22.71% hold an associate degree, and 15.30% have a master's or professional degree. 

Meanwhile, as seen in the chart below, 60% of sociologists in the United States have a doctoral degree or more, 30% earned a master's or professional degree, and 10% completed a bachelor's degree.

How does an online bachelor's in sociology compare to an on-campus program?

Both online and on-campus bachelor's programs in sociology aim to provide students with a strong foundation in social theory, research methods, and critical thinking to analyze human behavior and social structures. However, these two formats differ in terms of scheduling flexibility and learning experience, among others. 

Here is how they compare across several key aspects:

Flexibility and Scheduling

• Online: Online sociology programs often offer asynchronous coursework, enabling students to study at their own pace while balancing work or family obligations. This makes them ideal for non-traditional students or those seeking maximum scheduling flexibility, like fast-track online data analytics degree programs.
• On-Campus: On-campus programs follow set class schedules with required attendance, which supports structured learning and regular interaction with instructors and classmates.

Learning Environment

• Online: Students learn through virtual platforms using discussion boards, recorded lectures, and digital assignments. This setting encourages self-discipline and independence but can feel isolating for those who thrive on in-person interaction.
• On-Campus: Traditional classroom settings allow for immediate feedback, live group discussions, and spontaneous academic debate, offering a more immersive learning experience.

Access to Resources

• Online: Online students can access digital libraries, academic advising, and tutoring services remotely. Some programs also provide career services and virtual office hours.
• On-Campus: Students benefit from full access to physical campus facilities such as libraries, computer labs, and student centers, as well as easier in-person engagement with faculty and support services.

Research and Field Experience

• Online: Some online sociology programs offer virtual simulations, remote research projects, or allow students to complete community-based experiences locally. However, options may be limited based on geographic location.
• On-Campus: Students often have more direct access to faculty-led research projects, internships, and partnerships with local organizations that enhance applied learning.

Cost and Accessibility

• Online: Online programs tend to be more cost-effective due to savings on housing, transportation, and campus-related fees. They also make higher education more accessible to students in rural or underserved areas.
• On-Campus: While often more expensive, on-campus programs provide a more traditional college experience and immediate access to a wide range of academic and social opportunities.

What is the average cost of an online bachelor's in sociology?

The average cost of an online bachelor's in sociology typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000 in total tuition, depending on the institution and residency status. Online programs are often more affordable than on-campus options, especially when factoring in savings on housing and transportation.

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Here is a breakdown of common cost factors:

• Public Universities: Online sociology programs at public institutions usually cost between $300 and $500 per credit hour, with total tuition ranging from $30,000 to $45,000 for a 120-credit program. In-state students often benefit from lower rates, though many online programs now offer flat tuition regardless of location.
• Private Colleges: Private institutions tend to charge higher tuition, with per-credit rates averaging $500 to $800 or more. The total cost at these schools can fall between $45,000 and $60,000, or higher in some cases.
• Additional Fees: Students may also pay technology fees, course materials, lab fees, or graduation fees, though they typically save on housing and transportation compared to on-campus students.
• Financial Aid Impact: Federal aid, scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance can significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost, making many programs more affordable.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online bachelor's in sociology?

Students enrolling in an online bachelor's in sociology program have several financial aid options available to help reduce the cost of their education. Aid can come from federal, state, institutional, and private sources. These are the commonly available forms of student aid:

• Federal Financial Aid: By completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), students can access federal aid programs such as Pell Grants (for those with financial need), Federal Work-Study, and Direct Subsidized or Unsubsidized Loans.
• State Grants and Scholarships: Many states offer grants or merit-based scholarships for residents attending approved colleges, including online programs offered by in-state public institutions.
• Institutional Scholarships: Colleges and universities often provide need-based, merit-based, or program-specific scholarships to students pursuing degrees, including those studying online.
• Private Scholarships: External organizations, foundations, and professional associations offer scholarships for students in the social sciences. These can be based on academic achievement, leadership, community service, or financial need.
• Employer Tuition Assistance: Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or education assistance programs for employees pursuing degrees relevant to their roles, including sociology and human services.
• Military and Veterans’ Benefits: Students who are veterans, active-duty service members, or dependents may qualify for educational benefits under programs such as the GI Bill® or Tuition Assistance.
• Payment Plans: Many institutions allow students to enroll in tuition payment plans, enabling them to spread the cost of tuition across the semester rather than paying in one lump sum.
• Loan Forgiveness Programs: Graduates working in qualifying public service roles may be eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) or income-driven repayment plans that reduce monthly payments and forgive remaining balances after a set period.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online bachelor's in sociology?

Admission requirements for an online bachelor's in sociology are similar to those for traditional undergraduate programs and the fastest online counselor education degree programs. They are designed to assess academic readiness and potential for success in a college-level social science curriculum. 

The common prerequisites include the following:

• High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent, such as a GED. Some schools may require a minimum GPA, often around 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Official Transcripts: Schools typically require submission of official high school transcripts and, if applicable, transcripts from any previous college coursework for transfer credit evaluation.
• Standardized Test Scores (optional at many schools): While SAT or ACT scores may be optional or waived—especially for adult learners or transfer students—some schools may request them for scholarship consideration or admission decisions.
• Application Form: Applicants must complete the school’s undergraduate application, which may be completed through the institution’s own portal or a platform like the Common App.
• Application Fee: Most schools charge a nonrefundable application fee, although waivers may be available for qualifying students.
• Personal Statement or Essay: Some programs require a short essay outlining the applicant’s goals, interest in sociology, and reasons for choosing the online format.
• Letters of Recommendation: Some schools may request letters from teachers, counselors, or employers to support the applicant’s academic readiness and character.
• English Language Proficiency (for non-native speakers): International students must typically submit TOEFL, IELTS, or other recognized scores to demonstrate English proficiency.
• Technology Access: While not a formal admission criterion, students must have regular access to a computer, internet connection, and basic digital literacy to participate in online coursework.
• Transfer Requirements: Transfer applicants often have additional considerations, such as a minimum number of college-level credits or a specified GPA for previously completed coursework.

The chart below shows the industries that employ the most community health workers, including social service specialists.

What courses are typically in an online bachelor's in sociology?

Online sociology programs typically include a mix of foundational sociology courses, research methods, statistical analysis, and electives focused on social institutions and issues. These courses are designed to help students understand human behavior, social structures, and cultural dynamics.

Students interested in leadership roles in healthcare, such as those exploring the best online MSN in nurse executive leadership programs, may find certain sociology courses—like organizational behavior, social policy, and research methods—particularly valuable for understanding management and system-level healthcare challenges.

The common courses include the following:

• Introduction to Sociology: This foundational course explores key sociological concepts, theories, and the structure of society, including topics like culture, socialization, and social change.
• Social Problems: Students examine major issues such as poverty, crime, inequality, and environmental challenges, focusing on their causes and potential solutions.
• Sociological Theory: This course covers classical and contemporary sociological thinkers such as Marx, Durkheim, and Weber, helping students analyze modern society through theoretical frameworks.
• Research Methods in Sociology: Students learn how to design and conduct sociological research using qualitative and quantitative methods, including surveys, interviews, and field studies.
• Statistics for Social Sciences: This course introduces statistical tools used to analyze social data, teaching students how to interpret research findings and use statistical software.
• Race, Class, and Gender: Students explore how systems of inequality intersect and shape individual experiences and social structures, focusing on diversity, privilege, and discrimination.
• Sociology of the Family: This course analyzes family structures and relationships across cultures and time periods, considering factors like gender roles, marriage, and parenting.
• Criminology: Students study the causes, consequences, and prevention of crime, along with the structure and function of criminal justice systems. The average criminologist salary is on par with that of sociologists, making it a viable career path for graduates.
• Urban Sociology: This course examines life in cities, including urbanization, housing, segregation, and the impact of economic and social policies on urban communities.
• Capstone or Senior Seminar: Often required in the final year, this course allows students to integrate their learning through a major research project or applied sociological analysis.

Electives may also include topics like environmental sociology, social movements, education, globalization, or health and society, allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests.

What types of specializations are available in online bachelor's in sociology programs?

Online bachelor's in sociology programs often offer specializations or concentration areas that allow students to focus their studies on specific social issues, populations, or professional interests. These concentrations allow students to deepen their expertise in areas aligned with their passions and career aspirations. The common specializations include the following:

• Criminology and Criminal Justice: This specialization focuses on the sociological aspects of crime, deviance, law enforcement, and the criminal justice system. It prepares students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, or legal services. Learners who prefer to focus on this discipline may want to look into the cheapest criminal justice degree online options.
• Social Work and Human Services: Designed for students interested in direct service roles, this track explores social welfare systems, case management, and support for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals experiencing poverty or mental health issues.
• Inequality and Social Justice: This concentration examines race, class, gender, and sexuality through the lens of social justice and human rights. It prepares students for roles in advocacy, nonprofit work, or diversity and inclusion initiatives.
• Urban Studies: Focused on life in cities and metropolitan regions, this specialization explores urban development, housing, gentrification, and community dynamics, often connecting with careers in urban planning, policy, or public administration.
• Health and Society: This area looks at how social factors influence health, illness, and healthcare access. It is ideal for students interested in public health, healthcare administration, or medical sociology.
• Education and Society: Students examine the sociological role of education systems, school inequality, and educational policy, preparing for roles in educational support services or policy development.
• Globalization and International Development: This specialization explores global social structures, international inequality, and development initiatives, making it a good fit for students interested in NGOs, international organizations, or global policy work.
• Environmental Sociology: Focused on the relationship between society and the environment, this track examines environmental movements, sustainability, and climate justice from a sociological perspective.

Social service specialists who intend to focus on serving disabled individuals in the long run may want to explore a reliable disability social worker career guide. This allows them to get acquainted with the requirements and standards. 

How to choose the best online bachelor's in sociology?

When choosing the best online bachelor's in sociology program, students should consider several key factors to ensure the program aligns with their academic goals, career plans, and lifestyle. By weighing these elements, students can select an online sociology program that offers academic rigor, practical value, and the flexibility needed for their personal and professional success.

Students pursuing complementary technology skills, such as those offered in the best online Microsoft Azure dual certification bootcamps, may also find sociology programs with strong data analytics, research, or information systems courses especially beneficial.

The primary considerations include the following:

• Accreditation: It is essential to choose a program from a regionally accredited institution, as accreditation ensures the education meets national quality standards and qualifies students for financial aid, graduate study, and employment.
• Curriculum and Specializations: A strong program offers a well-rounded curriculum that includes foundational sociology courses as well as specialized electives in areas like criminology, public health, or social justice, allowing students to tailor their education.
• Faculty Credentials: Programs with experienced faculty who hold advanced degrees in sociology or related disciplines provide students with academically rigorous instruction and opportunities for professional mentorship.
• Program Format and Flexibility: The availability of asynchronous coursework, part-time options, or accelerated tracks can make a significant difference for students balancing work or family responsibilities.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Comparing tuition rates, fees, and available financial aid—including scholarships, grants, and employer tuition reimbursement—helps determine a program's affordability.
• Student Support Services: High-quality programs offer comprehensive support, such as academic advising, writing and tutoring centers, library access, career counseling, and technical assistance for online learners.
• Transfer Credit Policies: For transfer students, it is important to verify how many previously earned credits will be accepted and whether the school maintains articulation agreements with community colleges or other universities.
• Career and Graduate School Preparation: Programs that provide career development resources, internship placements, and guidance for graduate applications help students transition smoothly into the workforce or advanced study.
• Technology Requirements: A reliable learning platform and clear technology expectations ensure that students can access course materials, participate in discussions, and submit assignments effectively.
• Reputation and Student Outcomes: Reviewing graduation rates, alumni success, and school rankings can provide insights into the program’s credibility and the long-term value of the degree.

Interestingly, sociologists in the country rated their career happiness 3.4 out of 5 stars, which is relatively high. 

What career paths are available for graduates of online bachelor's in sociology programs?

Graduates of online bachelor's in sociology programs can pursue a wide range of career paths across social services, research, education, business, and government. Their training in analyzing human behavior, social systems, and data prepares them for roles that involve problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. Here are the common career paths:

• Social Services Specialist: Social services specialists assist individuals and families in accessing essential resources such as housing, employment, and mental health support, often working with vulnerable or underserved populations.
• Case Manager: Case managers coordinate care plans and connect clients with appropriate services across healthcare, social welfare, or justice systems to support their long-term well-being.
• Human Resources Specialist: Human resources specialists apply their understanding of social behavior and organizational dynamics to manage hiring, training, employee relations, and workplace diversity efforts.
• Market Research Analyst: Market research analysts gather and interpret data about consumer behavior, social trends, and public opinion to inform marketing strategies and product development.
• Probation or Correctional Officer: These professionals supervise individuals on probation or in correctional facilities, focusing on rehabilitation, compliance monitoring, and reintegration into society.
• Community Outreach Coordinator: Community outreach coordinators design and implement programs that engage the public, raise awareness about social issues, and connect communities with available services.
• Public Policy Assistant: Public policy assistants support research and analysis related to legislation, social programs, and advocacy efforts, often contributing to reports or policy proposals.
• Youth Counselor or Program Facilitator: Youth counselors work with children and adolescents in schools or community organizations to provide guidance, resolve conflicts, and promote positive development.
• Survey Research Assistant: Survey research assistants help design, administer, and analyze surveys on public attitudes, behaviors, and demographic trends for academic or organizational research.
• Diversity and Inclusion Coordinator: Diversity and inclusion coordinators develop training programs and organizational policies that promote equity, cultural competence, and inclusive workplace practices.

With further education—such as a master's or doctoral degree in sociology—graduates can become professional sociologists, conducting research, teaching at the college level, or influencing public policy through academic and applied work. 

Graduates can also explore the social worker vs case manager comparison, since they are both career options upon completing a graduate degree.

How does an online sociology degree compare with an affordable online psychology degree?

An online sociology degree emphasizes the analysis of social structures, cultural trends, and collective behavior, while an online psychology program typically focuses on individual behavior, cognitive processes, and mental health. These distinct curricular focuses lead to varying career trajectories: sociology graduates are often prepared for roles in public policy, community outreach, or social research, whereas psychology graduates may pursue positions in clinical settings, counseling, or behavioral research. Prospective students should assess how each program aligns with their personal interests and long-term career objectives, considering factors such as curriculum depth, career services, and cost-effectiveness. For a cost-comparison perspective in related fields, review our article about an affordable online psychology degree.

What is the job market for graduates with an online bachelor's in sociology?

According to BLS data, employment of community health workers—including some roles filled by social service specialists—is projected to grow by 13% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the national average of 4%. This growth suggests that graduates of online sociology programs may find a wide range of job opportunities in related fields.

The job website Indeed shows that there are over 15,000 job openings for social service specialist roles in the United States. This excludes the openings for other roles that sociology majors can pursue as careers, such as being case managers, market research analysts, or community outreach coordinators. 

The industries that employ the most community health workers are social assistance (21%), ambulatory healthcare services (19%), and local government (17%). 

Meanwhile, as seen in the visual below, the US states with the highest employment levels for community health workers are California (8,730), New York (6,380), and Texas (4,760). 

Here's What Graduates Have to Say About Their Online Bachelor's in Sociology Programs

Other Things You Should Know About Online Bachelor's in Sociology Programs

Can a student become a sociologist with only a bachelor's degree?

While a bachelor's degree in sociology is an excellent foundation for many careers in social services, research, and public administration, it is generally not sufficient to become a professional sociologist. Most positions with the official title of "sociologist," particularly in academia, research, or government, require a master's or Ph.D.

A bachelor's degree in sociology, however, can lead to roles like social service specialist, social science research assistant, or case manager, which utilize sociological skills in a more applied context.

What is the difference between a sociologist and a social service specialist?

A sociologist studies social behavior, institutions, and patterns through research and theory to understand how society functions and influences individuals. On the other hand, a social service specialist applies this understanding by directly helping individuals and families access resources and support for personal and social challenges.

While sociologists focus more on analysis and systemic research, social service specialists engage in practical, client-centered work to improve lives.

What is the difference between sociology and social work?

Sociology is the academic study of society, social relationships, and institutions, emphasizing research and theoretical analysis. Social work, on the other hand, is a practice-based profession focused on helping individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and improve their quality of life. While sociology seeks to understand social issues, social work applies that understanding to directly support and advocate for people in need.

What is the best degree to take to become a sociologist?

The best degree to become a sociologist is a Ph.D. in Sociology, as it qualifies individuals for roles in research, teaching, and high-level analysis. However, a master's degree in sociology may also lead to positions in applied research, policy development, or social services. A bachelor's degree can serve as a foundation but typically requires further education for a full career as a sociologist.