Sociology studies social life, change and the factors shaping human interactions and outcomes. This program examines cultural and social dynamics across race, gender and class, as well as the structure of groups, organizations and societies. You’ll also explore how individuals navigate these frameworks, gaining insight into behavior patterns and social influence.
Courses cover a range of social groups and behaviors, from close-knit communities to confrontational crowds.
The knowledge and skills you’ll develop
Throughout this program, you’ll gain expertise in sociological theory, research techniques and the function of social institutions. The curriculum emphasizes real-world applications in health, aging, technology, workplaces and more. You’ll also deepen your understanding of multiculturalism and other social issues.
Additionally, courses strengthen communication, data interpretation and statistical analysis skills. You’ll build a strong foundation in social institutions such as families, educational environments and workplaces while honing your writing, technical and research abilities. Graduates are equipped for careers in social services, business, government and more, or to pursue graduate studies and sociological research.
This sociology degree stands out as a Bachelor of Science, rather than the more common Bachelor of Arts. As a BS, the focus is on sociological research methods and the historical impact of social issues.
Sociology vs. social work: The differences between the two
Although both sociology and social work are concerned with social issues, there are key differences between the two fields.
Sociology seeks to understand the root causes of social problems and how individual experiences are rooted in broader social structures. Sociologists collect, research and analyze data to identify patterns of human behavior and study social interactions across settings and institutional domains.
Social work focuses on providing people with direct services and community resources to address personal troubles that affect their quality of life.
If your interests more closely align with a career in social work, ASU’s online Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) may be a better fit.
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in sociology explores how humans interact, create change and coexist in social structures. This program teaches you to conduct research, analyze social patterns and think critically about various topics, such as relationship building and community interactions.
You’ll engage in interactive discussions, written projects and experiential learning. Coursework covers sociological theory and research methods, while elective options allow you to tailor your studies to topics such as gender, social thought, race, ethnicity and more.
As a part of The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, the School of Social and Family Dynamics is home to prestigious faculty members who excel in research and teaching. Highlights include:
- Centennial Professor
- Dean’s Excellence in Teaching
- MacArthur Fellow
- Most Inspirational Professor
- Outstanding Lecturer
- Outstanding Faculty Mentor
- Outstanding Teaching Professor Award in Social Sciences
- Professor of the Year
- Urie Bronfenbrenner APA Lifetime Achievement Award
- William T. Grant Foundation Scholars
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
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.”