Edited By Barani Krishnan
Review & Contribution By Dr. William Harris
Unlock new career opportunities with a Master’s in Sociology Online. Explore social dynamics, research methods, and cultural studies- all from the convenience of your home.
A master’s in sociology online helps students understand various factors that promote relationships and positive outcomes for families, communities, and individuals. The program emphasizes the practical application of sociological research and develops a critical understanding of social issues and their impact on everyday life. Students explore social contexts affecting well-being and how organizations shape worldviews and behaviors. The online master’s in sociology also prepares them for careers in case management, human resources, and social work, as well as for pursuing a Ph.D. or other advanced degrees. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment outlook for sociologists is projected to grow by about five percent[1], which is as fast as the average for other occupations.
Table Of Contents
Featured Online Masters Programs
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
National University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs
National University, headquartered in San Diego, California, was founded in 1971 to provide educational opportunities for adult learners and working professionals. It offers over 190 degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, with flexible online and on-campus courses. Serving around 40,000 students and over 240,000 alumni, the university is recognized for its support of U.S. military members. Accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), National University is committed to accessible and transformative higher education.
FindBestDegrees.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: Best & Affordable Online Masters Programs
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Master’s in Sociology Online Programs
Finding the best online master’s in sociology is a tough task. Students must consider program quality, duration, faculty expertise, and course offerings. Evaluating accreditation, student support services, and alumni success can also guide this decision. Researching these factors ensures students select a program that aligns with their academic and career goals, providing a valuable and enriching educational experience. The teams at FBD have researched the best master’s in sociology online programs using a proprietary methodology and compiled the following list:
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Arizona State University | 1365 N Scottsdale Rd, Scottsdale, Arizona 85257 | $11,308 | NA |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Master’s in Sociology Online Programs
Graduate programs are designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge in various sociology areas and develop them as professional researchers. A typical online sociology master’s requires around 30 credit hours and takes two to three years to complete. It can be pursued in on-campus, off-campus, and hybrid learning modes. Students become proficient in demography, environmental sociology, marriage and family, comparative and global sociology, and race and ethnicity. Those pursuing a Ph.D. after completing their master’s degree often choose the thesis track. However, students opting for the non-thesis track must complete several courses and pass a comprehensive exam. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in marketing, social services, data science, healthcare, etc.
Curriculum and Coursework
An online master’s degree in sociology enhances students’ ability to apply advanced social science methods in research and statistical analysis across interdisciplinary careers and contexts. The curriculum explores diversity, inequality, social change, globalization, and the interactions between societies and organizations. It also focuses on interests in social services, healthcare, and education.
These master’s programs provide essential disciplinary training, research opportunities, and professional experience, preparing graduates for non-profit, governmental agencies, and business roles. Courses typically incorporate sociological perspectives into data analytics and other information.
Prospective graduates often complete a faculty-directed research project synthesizing their coursework. While specific courses vary, common offerings include:
Sociological research methods
This course teaches students to employ various methods of social investigation, such as primary source data collection, ethnography, unobtrusive observations, experiments, participant observation, secondary data analysis, and more. They also gain proficiency in different techniques of social research methods, encompassing both quantitative and qualitative approaches.
Applied Sociology
This course in applied sociology explores the application of sociological concepts, ideas, models, and theories to address everyday challenges. Students learn about issues arising in the workplace, communities, homes, and organizations. The primary focus is to help graduates find solutions to social problems by leveraging various theoretical frameworks.
Sociological theory
This essential course helps students consider, analyze, and explain aspects of social reality from different sociological perspectives. They examine sociological theories from various theoretical orientations, including symbolic interactionism, conflict perspective, and structural functionalism.
Social Psychology
This course helps students examine fundamental theories, concepts, and research in social psychology, focusing on individual behavior within a social context. Students learn how individuals interact and relate to communities in the social environment. By understanding how individuals perceive others, form attitudes, and behave in groups, students gain a greater appreciation for how different relationships influence individual functioning.
Social Theory in Action
This course helps students integrate contemporary and classical sociological theories by applying them to real-life situations. Students explore theory and epistemology as frameworks to study society and communities, focusing on critical sociological theories relevant to their research interests.
Some other standard courses across programs include:
- Qualitative Methods in Social Science Research
- Quantitative Methods in Social Science Research
- Ethics, Collaboration, and Career Planning
- Scholarly and Technical Writing
- Multicultural Issues in Human Behavior
- Grant Writing and Fundraising for Social Scientists
- Organizational Behavior
- Social Analysis of Education Systems
- Medical Sociology
- Social Statistics
- Seminar on Race and Ethnicity
- Sociology of Education
- Criminological Theory
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
The master’s degree in sociology online prepares students with advanced training and a robust foundation for flexible career development at regional, national, and local levels. Graduates acquire essential skills in communication, reasoning, and analytical tools to address contemporary social challenges effectively. The program provides rigorous training in theory, research methodology, social statistics, and data analysis. Students develop expertise in:
- Understanding social challenges within historical, cultural, and socio-political contexts;
- Generating potential solutions informed by current sociological literature;
- Applying diverse research methodologies and data analysis techniques;
- Using social theory to evaluate policies, programs, and published research critically;
- Communicating sociological knowledge effectively through various modes;
- Utilizing digital data for social justice analysis;
- Upholding professional ethics in sociology;
- Creating impactful projects and portfolios demonstrating proficiency in sociological methodology, theory application, and critical analysis in digital environments.
Types of Master’s Degrees Sociology Students Can Obtain
Students can demonstrate their mastery of key concepts, including inequality and diversity, developed by modern and classical sociological theorists through a master’s sociology online degree. In the United States, students can pursue a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Science (MS) in sociology, enhancing understanding and readiness for diverse career paths.
Master of Arts or MA in Sociology
The Master of Arts (MA) in sociology enables students to deepen their understanding of core sociological concepts and their application in addressing social challenges. Graduates are prepared to promote communities’ and individuals’ economic, environmental, and social well-being. They also develop portfolios to demonstrate their mastery of social science knowledge and skills.
Master of Science or MS in Sociology
Through the Master of Science (MS) in sociology, students acquire skills in designing and conducting data collection and analyses that are crucial for advancing current literature and theory in sociology. The program emphasizes big data analysis, visualization, digital sociology, sociological theory, and more. Students also undertake projects to enhance proficiency in applying sociological methodology, critical analysis, and theory.
Areas of Specialization for Sociology Students
Specializations in fields like sociology offer focused study in specific areas. They deepen understanding and expertise, preparing students for specialized careers or further academic pursuits. Specializations enhance marketability in job sectors requiring specific knowledge, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex societal issues and contribute effectively to their chosen field.
Here are some specializations that a master’s degree in sociology online students can pursue:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Sociology | This specialization in clinical sociology focuses on the social aspects of illness production, healthcare systems and facilities, the postmodern view of illness and health, and more. Students also analyze how social processes influence human experiences. | Clinical Sociologist Public Health Campaign Manager Research Analyst Intervention Specialist |
| Community Health | This specialization focuses on understanding various community health services such as preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative health care. Students gain comprehensive knowledge of their community’s health challenges, preparing them to effectively address and improve public health outcomes. | Occupational Therapist Public Health Analyst Public Health Policy Advisor Community Wellness Coordinator |
| Deviance and Social Control | The concentration explores the relationship between crime and deviance, examining concepts such as codified law, cultural and social norms, and their contextual implications. Students also study topics related to deviance, the nature of deviant behavior, methods of social control, and the diverse range of regulations and laws governing society. | Criminologist Law Enforcement Consultant Policy Advisor Correctional Program Manager |
| Gender Studies | Through the concentration in gender studies, students learn to address challenges stemming from the gendered dynamics in everyday life and politics, leading to economic and social inequalities. They gain insights into the necessity of such categories and how to engage with them to promote meaningful inclusivity in society. | Gender Studies Educator Diversity and Inclusion Consultant Human Rights Advocate Social Justice Researcher |
| Race Relations | This concentration enables students to conduct sociological analyses of ethnicity and race, often integrating postcolonial theory and other sociological domains such as social psychology and stratification. It provides comprehensive insights into ethnic relations, political theory, and related topics, fostering a deep understanding of race and ethnicity’s complexities. | Policy Advocate Race Relations Officer Social Worker Race Researcher |
| Social Inequality and Mobility | In this concentration, students learn about the foundations of societal division and categorization. They gain insights into concepts related to income distribution and how unequal distribution contributes to higher income inequality in society. | Sociologist Policy Advocate Social Worker Urban Planner |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
As with most educational degrees, the time required to obtain a master’s in sociology depends on the number of courses completed in the coursework. On average, completing the degree full-time takes about two years. Part-time study would typically extend beyond two years. The program can be completed in an accelerated format in less than two years. Here is a quick summary of the timeline to complete an online master’s degree in sociology:
- Full-time program: Typically completed in two years.
- Part-time program: Generally takes more than two years to complete.
- Accelerated program: Typically completed in less than two years.
Accelerated Sociology Programs
An accelerated master’s degree in sociology allows students to complete their studies in less time than traditional programs. Applying to these programs follows the same procedures as standard master’s applications. Many students opt for accelerated programs due to work commitments or to reduce costs. They achieve this by fast-tracking their studies and transferring credits, though this approach can be demanding due to the intensive coursework. Here are a few colleges that provide an accelerated master’s in sociology online program:
Requirements for Getting into a Master’s in Sociology Online Program
Applicants must understand various requirements when applying for a graduate degree and prepare documentation accordingly. Most colleges typically mandate an undergraduate degree in sociology or related fields for admission. As master’s programs involve advanced coursework, institutions ensure applicants possess foundational knowledge in sociology, often requiring prerequisites in English, mathematics, and other disciplines. Some of the standard online master’s in sociology admission requirements include:
- Application fee and completed form
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited program
- Admissions essay that describes their professional and educational aspirations
- Test scores from the Graduate Record Exam or GRE (waived off by some schools)
- Personal statement or statement of purpose
- Two to three letters of recommendation from professionals in the field
- Graduate Resume highlighting any experience in sociology or related fields
No GRE Master’s in Sociology Online Programs
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test required for admission to many master’s programs in the United States. However, an increasing number of colleges have completely waived this requirement. Most sociology master’s programs typically do not require a GRE score. Here are a few universities that offer master’s in sociology online no GRE:
How to Ensure a Master’s in Sociology Online Degree Is Accredited
Accreditation assures students that educational programs meet established standards of quality and rigor. It enhances credibility and recognition of degrees or certifications, facilitating transfer credits and eligibility for financial aid. Accredited institutions assure a comprehensive and valuable educational experience, preparing students for future careers and further academic pursuits. The Commission on the Accreditation of Programs in Applied and Clinical Sociology (CAPCAS)[7] provides programmatic accreditation for fields like applied sociology, clinical sociology, public sociology, and sociological practices. Universities can also achieve accreditation nationally or through one of six regional accrediting agencies:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Where to Find Free Online Courses for Sociology Master’s Students
Free courses provide valuable learning opportunities for students despite lacking accreditation. They cover diverse subjects, enhancing skills and knowledge crucial for personal and professional growth. Some courses even offer certificates, validating achievement and boosting resumes. This accessibility democratizes education, empowering learners globally to advance careers and pursue interests flexibly and affordably. Here are a few free sociology courses students can explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Basics of Sociology[8] | In this course, students learn about key concepts in sociology, its practical applications, distinctions between society and culture, various leadership styles, and more. They also explore social epidemiology, the influence of technology on societal evolution, climate change, and its significance. | Alison |
| Fundamentals of Sociology[9] | This free course examines the nature of the family as a social organization through functionalist, symbolic interactionist, and conflict theoretical perspectives. It also explores historical social upheavals that have led to significant societal changes. | edX |
| Classical Sociological Theory Course[10] | This free course delves into positivism, functionalism, and the origins of communist and socialist movements globally. Participants discover the relevance of classical sociological theories in contemporary societies, exploring themes like class struggle, capitalism, and alienation. | Coursera |
Ways to Pay for a Master’s in Sociology Online Degree
The tuition costs for master’s programs are rising, causing concern among students wary of increasing student debt. Finding ways to pay for a master’s in sociology online can alleviate financial worries and enable students to pursue their educational goals without undue financial strain.
Here are a few ways students can fund their programs:
Scholarships provide vital financial support for students pursuing higher education, easing the burden of tuition and expenses. They reward academic excellence, leadership, and unique talents, making education accessible and empowering future generations to achieve their full potential.
Grants for students offer financial aid without the need for repayment, supporting education costs such as tuition, books, and living expenses. They aim to alleviate financial barriers, enabling students to focus on academic success and career goals without accumulating debt.
Graduate Assistantships
Graduate assistantships provide financial support to graduate students in exchange for teaching, research, or administrative work. These positions offer valuable professional experience and mentorship opportunities and often include benefits such as tuition waivers or stipends, making them integral to the graduate education experience.
FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is crucial for U.S. students seeking financial assistance for higher education. It determines eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs based on family income and other factors, ensuring access to affordable education opportunities.
Scholarships for Master’s in Sociology Online Degree Students
Scholarships for online master’s in sociology degree students provide financial support to pursue advanced education. These opportunities help offset tuition costs and expenses, encouraging academic excellence and professional development in sociology. Scholarships from universities, private organizations, and foundations are available, facilitating access to higher education for deserving students. Here are a few online master’s in sociology scholarships students can explore:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Alma S. Adams Scholarship[11] | The Dr. Alma S. Adams Scholarship supports graduate students studying communications, public health, sociology, or related fields. It is awarded to individuals who have shown a dedication to promoting culturally appropriate health messages and enhancing community well-being. | $5,000 | Varies |
| Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowships[12] | The Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowship ensures that dedicated and diverse next-generation experts can develop solutions to promote peace and security. It aims to bridge the gap between academia and the professional world, contributing to public interest organizations. | Not specified | October annually |
Career Opportunities and Salaries After Graduating With a Master’s in Sociology Online Degree
Graduates with an online master’s degree in sociology can explore diverse career opportunities with competitive salaries. Their advanced understanding of societal dynamics and research skills prepares them for roles across various sectors. Opportunities span from research and analysis to program development and policy advocacy, reflecting the demand for their expertise in addressing complex social issues and driving meaningful change. Here’s a list of potential career paths for students graduating with a master’s degree in sociology:
- Child Protective Services Agent
- Community Program Coordinator
- Crisis Intervention Center Employee
- Government Agency Employee
- HR Professional
- Nonprofit Leader
- Sociologists
- Political Scientists
- Urban and Regional planner
- Anthropologists
- Historians
- Surveyors
Here are a few more occupations explored:
| Occupation | Job Description | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2031) | Skills Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sociologists [1] | Sociologists collaborate with policymakers, social scientists, and groups to offer advice on research findings and sociological challenges. They gather data through observation, interviews, surveys, and various other research methods. | $101,770 | 5% (faster than average) | Analytical, communication, and critical-thinking skills. |
| Political Scientists [13] | Political scientists research comparative politics, national politics, international relations, and political theory. They employ qualitative research methods to gather information from diverse sources. These professionals also monitor current events, political decisions, and emerging challenges. | $132,350 | 7% (faster than average) | Analytical, communication, creativity, and critical thinking skills. |
| Economists [14] | Economists study historical trends to make forecasts and analyze data using various software programs. They often present their findings to audiences. These professionals work in state, local, and federal governments, aiding decision-makers and managers in understanding economic impacts on businesses. | $115,730 | 6% (faster than average) | Analytical, critical thinking, speaking, and writing skills. |
| Urban and Regional Planner [15] | Urban and regional planners assess and recommend approval or denial of land-related proposals. They present projects to planning officials, commissions, and communities to implement government policies impacting land use. These professionals stay informed about building codes, zoning regulations, environmental policies, and legal considerations to ensure compliance and sustainable development. | $81,800 | 4% (as fast as average) | Analytical, communication, decision-making, and leadership skills. |
| Historians[16] | Historians write reports, articles, and books presenting theories and findings. They preserve archival materials and conduct research and analysis for businesses, individuals, nonprofits, historical associations, and other organizations. Historians also offer expertise and guidance on preservation challenges and historical topics, contributing to the understanding and preserving our collective past. | $72,890 | 3% (as fast as average) | Analytical, foreign language, problem-solving, and research skills |
Certifications and Licensing for Master’s in Sociology Online Graduates
Certifications validate skills and knowledge, enhancing credibility and marketability across professions. They are committed to ongoing learning and mastery of specialized areas, bolstering career advancement and professional growth opportunities. Employers value certified professionals for their proven expertise and dedication to staying current, making certifications essential in today’s competitive job market. While master’s in sociology online programs typically do not require specific certifications or licensing, roles in health, mental health, social work, and related fields often necessitate professional licensure according to state requirements.
Additional Resources for Master’s in Sociology Online Graduates
Master’s students in sociology gain valuable advantages from networking opportunities and practical application platforms. Engaging with sociological associations, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations allow students to showcase their skills, interact with peers, and access insights into scholarships and career paths, enriching their educational experience and professional development. Here are a few resources that master’s degree in sociology online students can explore:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| American Sociology Association | The American Sociological Association includes members from various sectors, including students, professionals in government agencies, the private sector, and nonprofit organizations. They fulfill their mission through publishing journals, hosting annual meetings, and advocating for policies that affect our discipline. These efforts create networking opportunities for sociologists and support programmatic activities to advance the field. |
| American Evaluation Association | The American Evaluation Association evaluates and assesses the strengths and weaknesses of policies, programs, products, personnel, and organizations to enhance their effectiveness. They offer educational opportunities such as year-round programming and online courses and organize prominent events like the annual Summer Evaluation Institute and Evaluation Conference. |
| Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology | The Association for Applied and Clinical Sociology advocates for systems perspectives and integrative methods to analyze complex challenges and devise practical and innovative solutions. They emphasize translating research into implementation, designing interventions, and evaluating outcomes to enhance effectiveness and resolve issues. |
| Eastern Sociological Society | The Eastern Sociological Society aims to convene prominent journalists, policymakers, sociologists, community leaders, and others to address various challenges related to societal causes and consequences. They offer members various resources such as awards for excellence, workshops, a sociological forum, annual conferences, and more. |
| International Sociological Association | The International Sociological Association offers numerous membership benefits, including reduced registration fees at the ISA World Congress, access to a global database mapping sociologists, participation in research committees, and more. Its members include national sociology associations, research institutions, universities, and other organizations of sociologists worldwide. |
FAQs About Master’s in Sociology Online Programs
Why should you do a master’s in sociology degree online?
Pursuing a master’s in sociology online offers flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with work and personal commitments. It provides access to diverse programs and faculty expertise regardless of location, enabling professional advancement, skill enhancement, and a deeper understanding of sociological concepts without the need to relocate.
How valuable is an online master’s degree?
Is an online master’s in sociology worth it?
Is taking up a thesis necessary in sociology?
Is it necessary to have a bachelor’s degree in sociology to pursue a master’s?
How much does a master’s degree in sociology cost?
What can you do with an online master’s sociology degree?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Sociologists
Commission on the Accreditation of Programs in Applied and Clinical Sociology (CAPCAS)
Classical Sociological Theory Course-Coursera
Herbert Scoville Jr. Peace Fellowships
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Political Scientists Link 13 is for a Political Scientist and not a Sociologist.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Economists Link 14 is for an Economist and not a Sociologist.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Urban and Regional Planner Link 15 is for an Urban and Research Planner and not a Sociologist.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Occupational Outlook for Historians Link 16 is for a Historian and not a Sociologist.