This program is ideal for those seeking advanced positions or who want to begin a career in a field that draws from sociological understanding. You’ll learn how to promote healthy individuals, families and communities by understanding how social contexts influence relationships and overall well-being. Throughout the program, you’ll also gain transferable skills, such as identifying quality sources of information, interpreting research findings and working collaboratively. Advanced sociological concepts you’ll be able to apply include:
- Critical theory—Critiquing societal structures and power dynamics to understand and challenge social injustices.
- Cultural dynamics and social change—Analyzing how values, beliefs and behaviors shape society's social and psychological environments.
- Social networks—Examining how social relationships and structures influence behavior and opportunities.
The benefits of earning a master’s in sociology online
In this program, you’ll explore sociological issues and build practical research and statistical abilities. Broadening your sociological knowledge will allow you to be more effective in your current role and be a competitive candidate for advanced positions. Plus, you can complete this program in as little as 15 to 18 months, enabling you to make these career enhancements more quickly.
Additionally, sociology is a growing and in-demand field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for sociologists is projected to grow 5% between 2022 and 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. A lucrative career path, the median annual wage for sociologists was $101,770 in May 2023 per the BLS. This degree can support you in pursuing a role as a sociologist and related positions in education, social services and community-based agencies.
Please note that this program doesn’t require a thesis and serves as a terminal degree, meaning it’s not intended to prepare you for pursuing a PhD. In addition, this degree doesn’t lead to certification, licensure or related testing opportunities.
Gain the practical and research skills necessary to support individual and community well-being with a Master of Arts in sociology from Arizona State University online. In this program, you’ll learn how patterns of social relationships and interactions impact individuals, family members and employees. As a graduate, you’ll be prepared to make a positive impact in public, private and nonprofit sector organizations.
This program is designed to provide application-based knowledge and skills. Topics you’ll explore include sociological theory, social justice, marriage and family relationships, social change and more. As a culminating experience, you’ll complete a capstone course series to focus your training in an area of sociological interest. This in-depth investigation will take place over nine credit hours, or three courses, and provide you with an understanding of social needs, issues and behaviors.
From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:
- Fulbright American Scholars.
- Guggenheim Fellows.
- MacArthur Fellows.
- Nobel laureates.
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.
students enrolled as of fall 2024
in research expenditures in FY23
interdisciplinary schools and departments
undergraduate degrees
graduate degrees
for humanities research, according to the National Science Foundation
Applicants to the master’s in sociology program must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of their bachelor’s program. Alternatively, applicants must have a minimum of a 3.00 cumulative GPA in an applicable master’s program.
All applicants must submit:
- Graduate admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Personal statement.
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
- Two professional letters of recommendation.
An applicant whose native language is not English (regardless of current residency) must provide proof of English proficiency.
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”