100%
Online Option
$270
Tuition Cost per Credit
2 years
Average Completion*
Understand Society. Understand People. Make a Difference.
Why do people behave the way they do? How do families, communities, cultures, and institutions shape our lives? And how can understanding society help us create stronger communities and organizations?
The Sociology program at Athens State University explores these questions and more, helping you develop a deeper understanding of human relationships, social behavior, and the forces that shape communities. Along the way, you’ll develop research, communication, critical-thinking, and analytical skills that can prepare you for a wide range of careers and further educational opportunities.
Athens State offers both a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Sociology, giving you the flexibility to choose the academic pathway that best aligns with your interests and long-term goals.
Choose the Sociology Path That’s Right for You
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology provides a broad-based study of society while incorporating a liberal arts perspective. This pathway is well suited for students interested in people, communities, social issues, human services, education, communication, and other people-focused fields.
The B.A. can also provide a strong foundation for students planning to pursue graduate or professional education in areas such as sociology, social work, counseling, education, public administration, law, and related disciplines.
Bachelor of Science in Sociology
The Bachelor of Science in Sociology places greater emphasis on the analytical, research, and scientific dimensions of the discipline. Students develop skills in research, data analysis, and evidence-based approaches to understanding social behavior and social systems.
The B.S. can be a strong choice for students interested in research, data, social research, organizational analysis, or graduate study in sociology and related fields.
What You’ll Learn
As a Sociology student at Athens State, you’ll explore how people interact with one another and how social structures influence individual and collective experiences. You’ll examine the relationships among individuals, families, communities, organizations, and institutions while considering how culture and social environments shape behavior and opportunities.
You’ll also develop an understanding of how sociologists use research and evidence to study social questions. Through your coursework, you’ll learn to evaluate information, recognize patterns, analyze research findings, and consider social issues from multiple perspectives. Depending on your chosen degree pathway, you can develop particular emphasis on the broader liberal arts perspective of the B.A. or the research and analytical orientation of the B.S.
Just as importantly, you’ll develop an appreciation for the diversity of human experiences. By examining different cultures, communities, and social perspectives, you’ll build the cultural awareness and communication skills needed to work effectively with people from a variety of backgrounds.
Your Career Advantage Starts Here
Sociology provides a versatile foundation for careers involving people, communities, organizations, and social issues. Graduates may pursue opportunities in areas such as human services, nonprofit organizations, community outreach, social services, government, education, human resources, research, and organizational support.
The degree can be particularly valuable for careers that require an understanding of people and social systems. Employers value the ability to communicate effectively, conduct research, analyze information, understand different perspectives, and approach complex problems with an open and analytical mind.
For students who plan to pursue professions requiring additional education, either Sociology pathway can provide a strong foundation for graduate or professional study in fields such as social work, counseling, public administration, education, law, sociology, and other related disciplines.
Your Sociology degree doesn’t lock you into one career path. Instead, it gives you a broad understanding of people and society along with transferable skills that can adapt as your career develops.
Explore your career pathways with the Sociology degree, including anticipated salaries, annual job growth, and even active job listings through the Career Concourse portal.
$75k
Sociologist Estimated Entry Salary
$110k
Sociologist Estimated Median Salary
Estimated salary and employment information based on labor market data provided by Career Concourse and is intended for informational purposes only. Actual salaries and employment outcomes vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and employer and are not guaranteed upon degree completion.
Admissions & Aid
Ready to take the next step toward your degree? Athens State University offers a transfer-friendly admissions process designed to help you make the most of the college credits you’ve already earned.
Whether you’re transferring from another university or community college or returning to college after time away, our admissions and financial aid teams can help you understand your options and navigate the process of becoming an Athens State student.
From scholarships and grants to other forms of financial assistance, Athens State provides resources to help make completing your bachelor’s degree more attainable.
Explore Admissions & Aid to learn more about requirements, application steps, transfer credit, scholarships, and financial assistance.
Why Choose this Program at Athens State?
Life doesn’t stop while you’re earning your degree. That’s why the Sociologist degree is offered through a variety of flexible course formats, allowing you to complete coursework when it fits your schedule without sacrificing academic quality.
Built for Today’s Professionals
You shouldn’t have to choose between advancing your education and advancing your career. Athens State’s degree programs are designed with working professionals in mind. Flexible learning options allow you to pursue your degree while continuing to meet your professional and personal commitments.
Invest in Your Future The Smart Way
Athens State University is committed to providing an affordable, high-quality education. As Alabama’s most affordable public, state university, we give you the opportunity to earn an advanced degree while making a smart investment in your future, without unnecessary debt. Plus, our learning partnerships make a degree from Athens Sate even more accessible.
Learn from Experienced Faculty
Our faculty combine academic excellence with real-world experience, bringing current industry practices into every course. At Athens State, you’re not facing the journey alone—our dedicated, knowledgeable faculty and staff walk alongside you each step of the way, providing personalized guidance and support.
Additional Information
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*Average completion time varies by student and depends on prior credits
transferred to Athens State and the number of courses taken per semester.
Please consult with your Student Success Coach and faculty advisor for your personalized plan of study.