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sociology

Online Bachelor of Arts in
Sociology

Drive Positive Change in a Complex World
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Build a Versatile Career With a Strong Foundation in Sociology

Examine the pressing issues faced by our diverse and complex societies. Gain essential quantitative and qualitative research skills applicable in many professional fields and graduate studies. 

Our 16-month, fully online sociology degree program offers an in-depth exploration of society and human interactions, tailored to fit your schedule. Start your degree at a time that suits you with two enrollment options each year. 

Upon graduation, you will be empowered to tackle social challenges through empirical inquiry, critical analysis and strategic action. Whether pursuing a graduate degree or entering fields like social services, nonprofit work or policy development, you’ll be ready to make a significant impact. 


100% Online Classes

Complete in 16 Months

Cohort-Based Format

 

Application Deadlines

Applications to the online bachelor’s degree in sociology are reviewed on a rolling basis; apply at any time! However, priority is given to applications that are received by the following deadlines:

  • Spring 2025: Jan. 8, 2025
  • Fall 2025: March 5, 2025


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Complete this form to request details regarding coursework, admissions, tuition, and additional information.


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CSUSM holds full accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), the authoritative accrediting agency for higher education institutions in the Western region.  

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Quick facts
Fast-Track Degree Completion: The BA in Sociology is tailored for students with at least 60 college credits, enabling you to complete your online bachelor’s degree in just 16 months.

Uniquely Affordable: At only $420 per unit, this program stands out as one of the most cost-effective sociology degree options in Southern California.

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Attend an Information Session

Join an Online Information Session
Learn more about the Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program through one of these upcoming informal webinars and Q&A sessions: 

Admission and Costs

Admission

This is a degree-completion program. Students must complete required prerequisite courses and 60 transferable units (or 90 quarter units). Additionally, applicants are required to meet the CSU general education transfer standards. View all admission requirements.

Costs and Financial Aid

  • $420 per unit
  • Discounts available for active-duty military
  • Eligible for financial aid

VIEW ALL PROGRAM DETAILS

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sociology
Who Is This Sociology Bachelor's Degree For?
Does this sound like you?
  • Curious Explorers: Individuals eager to delve into social behavior and cultural dynamics
  • Future Changemakers: Those interested in careers in social work, community development or public health
  • Data Enthusiasts: People passionate about research and data analysis
  • Aspiring Scholars: Students considering advanced degrees in sociology, anthropology or social policy
  • Versatile Thinkers: Individuals who want a degree that opens doors to diverse career paths across various sectors

Curriculum Highlights

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills to understand complex social dynamics, cultural interactions and systemic inequalities. Through a diverse curriculum and capstone project, students integrate academic learning with real-world applications, preparing for meaningful careers in community service, education, policy advocacy and more.
 

Qualitative Methods in Sociology

Explore foundational concepts and theories in sociology while honing qualitative research skills. Engage in hands-on projects that allow you to investigate social phenomena, understand community dynamics, and analyze the impact of social structures on individual experiences. Develop the ability to critically assess qualitative data and its implications for social policy and practice. 

Inequality

Examine the multifaceted nature of social inequality, focusing on how factors such as race, class, gender and sexuality intersect to shape individuals' life experiences. Analyze historical and contemporary issues related to social justice and cultivate strategies for promoting equity and inclusion in various contexts. This course encourages active engagement with current social movements and advocacy efforts. 

Critical Race/Ethnic Studies

Investigate the complex relationships between race, ethnicity and society. Engage with critical theories that explore how racial and ethnic identities influence social structures and individual experiences. Analyze both historical and contemporary issues, emphasizing the importance of social justice and advocacy in addressing systemic inequalities. This course empowers students to think critically about their roles in fostering a more equitable society. 
 

Careers and Job Outlooks

Position Yourself for Professional Growth

Graduates of the BA in sociology program are well-equipped to excel in the thriving community and social service sector. This rewarding field is experiencing significant growth, with ample employment opportunities projected through 2033.

299,400

Annual Job Openings in Community and Social Services

8%

Projected Job Growth through 2033

$77,030

Median Salary for Community and Social Services Managers

 

sociology
Potential Career Paths

The BA in sociology equips you with the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of professional paths. Graduates can explore numerous career opportunities, including:

  • Social Worker
  • Human Resources Specialist
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Community Organizer
  • Policy Analyst
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Nonprofit Program Coordinator
  • Sociology Researcher 
With a sociology degree, you’ll be prepared to make a meaningful impact in diverse fields!

 

FAQ

  • What is a cohort?
    A cohort is a group of students who progress through a curriculum together to achieve the same academic degree. By taking classes together and graduating as a unit, cohort members form strong bonds, creating a valuable support system and professional network that benefits them both during and after the program. 
  • What is a bachelor's degree-completion program?
    Degree-completion programs at CSUSM cater to individuals who have initiated, yet not completed, their four-year undergraduate degrees. If you have earned at least 60 transferable units, you can get a head start on your bachelor’s degree. 
  • Will my diploma say "online"?
    No, your diploma will not specify that your degree was earned online; it will simply indicate that you received a bachelor’s degree from California State University San Marcos, the same as traditional, on-campus students. 
  • What services do you offer to active-duty military, veterans and dependents?
    Please visit our military and veteran services page to learn how we can help. 
  • What can you do with a sociology degree?

    Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in sociology can explore a diverse range of fields, leveraging their understanding of social dynamics and human behavior. Here’s a summary of some key areas they are well positioned to work in:

    • Social Services: Roles in social work, counseling and community outreach, focusing on helping individuals and families 
    • Education: Opportunities in teaching, educational administration or curriculum development, often emphasizing social issues and diversity
    • Research and Academia: Positions in research institutions or universities, conducting studies on social behavior and contributing to academic knowledge 
    • Public Policy and Administration: Work with government agencies or NGOs to analyze and develop policies addressing social issues
    • Human Resources: Managing employee relations, recruitment and organizational culture within businesses 
    • Market Research: Analyzing consumer behavior and market trends to inform business strategies 
    • Nonprofit Sector: Coordinating programs and initiatives aimed at social change and community development 
    • Public Relations and Communications: Crafting messages and managing public perception for organizations, utilizing sociological insights 

    Additionally, this degree provides a strong foundation for pursuing graduate studies in fields such as social work, public health, education or advanced sociology, among other disciplines. 

  • What are the differences between CSUSM's sociology and criminology programs?
    Discover the key distinctions between our sociology and criminology programs. 
  • What is Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) and how can it benefit me?

    Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows you to earn academic credits for skills and knowledge you've acquired outside of a traditional classroom. This can help reduce the number of courses needed for your degree, saving you time and money while accelerating your path to graduation.

  • How do I apply for CPL?

    Start by contacting your CSUSM advisor, who will guide you through the CPL process. You’ll need to provide proof of your certifications and/or provide supporting documentation demonstrating your learning, knowledge or skill acquired through experience. Once the appropriate paperwork has been received, the department faculty will assess which credits you qualify for.

  • Can other forms of experience besides certifications count towards CPL?

    Yes, beyond certifications, prior experience such as work or military experience may also qualify for credit. Faculty at CSUSM will review these experiences on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.


Make a Difference with a BA in Sociology

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Sources

Salary and job data: 1. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/ 2.  https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm 

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