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Sociology, BS

Are you interested in the study of social interaction and social structures? Gain valuable insight into the underlying institutions that guide human social behavior by learning about culture, relationships and social issues. With this knowledge, you'll be prepared to understand and serve people and communities.

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Students discuss sociology together outside, showcasing collaorative learning in the BS in Sociology.

Quick facts

Courses

120 credit hours
Math intensity: General program math intensity general
First required math course: MAT 114 - College Mathematics
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Additional facts

STEM-OPT extension eligible: No

International students (F1), this program is not eligible for the STEM-OPT extension.

Accreditation

Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Degree description

Sociology is the study of social life, social change and the social causes and consequences of human behavior.

The Bachelor of Science program in sociology offers you courses on contemporary social phenomena such as crime, population trends and technology. You also explore social institutions such as family, health, sports, law and the workplace. You develop proficiency in written communication, statistical analysis and research methodology, and gain computer skills.

In addition to reviewing the guidelines in the Concurrent Program Options section below, if you are interested in pursuing concurrent or second baccalaureate degrees in The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, you can visit The College's website for more information and requirements.

Get to know the Sociology degree at ASU

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Courses

Explore a sample list of courses you may take in this program.

Sample courses
SOC 101 Introductory Sociology
SOC 201 Careers in Sociology
SOC 290 Introduction to Social Science Research
SOC 390 Social Statistics I
SOC 483 Sociological Theories
SOC 490 Advanced Sociological Research Methods

Course checksheet and curriculum archive

The curriculum checksheet displays this program's required courses and other requirements you must complete for graduation.

What If

Current ASU students, see how your courses can apply to another major and find out how to change your major (opens in new window).

Already completed some college courses? Build on your success.

If you earned college credit outside ASU, our transfer tools map out your progress towards a degree and help you plan next steps.

See how your credits may apply (opens in new window)

What you'll learn

The following learning outcomes highlight some of the knowledge and skills you'll develop to support your future success.

  • Identify global and cross-cultural variations in social phenomena and points of intersectionality in social institutions and processes.
  • Apply key sociological concepts and theoretical frameworks critical to understanding social institutions and structural inequality
  • Critically evaluate quantitative/qualitative social science research in a class assignment

Admission requirements

Here are the admission and application details

All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.

First year (opens in new window) | Transfer (opens in new window) | International (opens in new window) | Readmission (opens in new window)

A current ASU student has no additional requirements for changing majors.

Students should visit the Change of Major form (opens in new window) for information about how to change a major to this program.


Explore expanded study opportunities

This program allows you to obtain both a bachelor's and a master's degree in as little as five years. As a high-achieving student, accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree programs are designed for you to share undergraduate coursework with graduate coursework to accelerate completion of your master's degree. These programs feature the same high-quality curriculum taught by ASU's world-renowned faculty.

This program is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Undergraduate advisor
Lisa Barth
480-965-6978
Lisa.Barth@asu.edu
Graduate advisor
Kaelie Kellner
480-965-6978
kkellne1@asu.edu
General contact
480-965-6978
Learn more about this program
General contact
602-496-0450
Learn more about this program
Undergraduate advisor
Lisa Barth
480-965-6978
Lisa.Barth@asu.edu
Graduate advisor
Kaelie Kellner
480-965-6978
kkellne1@asu.edu
General contact
480-965-6978
Learn more about this program

Approval to pursue the accelerated master's is typically granted during the junior year of your bachelor's degree program. If you are interested, you can learn more about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

When you pursue concurrent degrees (also known as a “double major”), you earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. Working with your academic advisor, you can create your own concurrent degree combination. Some combinations are not possible due to high levels of overlap in curriculum.

Global experience

Students explore different cultures and social dynamics when studying abroad and develop in-demand professional skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. Students can stay on track academically while earning ASU credit over winter or spring break trips. Among the opportunities available are homestays, which enable students to make connections with families in other countries.

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences recommends these programs for students majoring in sociology.

Paying for college

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Get an estimate

Build the career and future you want

Our graduates are prepared for a variety of career paths, including:

Career opportunities showing job titles, projected growth rates, median salaries, and links to detailed information
Career Growth Median Salary More Information
Advocate 7.4% $45,930
Human Behavior Researcher 5.0% $61,990
Human Resources Specialist (HR Specialist) 6.4% $75,940
Mental Health Counselor 18.4% $59,350
Paralegal -0.3% $62,890
Probation Officer 3.0% $66,270
Rehabilitation Counselor 2.2% $46,850
Social Services Director 7.2% $80,390
Social Worker 4.4% $59,550
Sociologist 3.8% $106,030

Example job titles and salaries listed are not necessarily entry level, and students should take into consideration how years of experience and geographical location may affect pay scales. Some jobs also may require advanced degrees, certifications or state-specific licensure.

Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).


More about careers

Graduates with a BS degree in sociology are prepared for direct entry into positions in:

  • business
  • government
  • social service

The degree also provides excellent preparation for future graduate and postbaccalaureate studies in:

  • health care
  • law
  • social work and counseling
  • sociological research

Contact information

Use the contact information below to get in touch if you're a current student or have general questions.
Prospective students should fill out the Request for Information form.

Sanford School of Social and Family Dynamics | WLSN 300L
advisor@asu.edu
480-965-6978

Frequently asked questions about degree programs

Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master's during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.

Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the "New Programs" option.

ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.

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