An online masters in sociology could be the next step in your social science education and career. Sociology graduate students study families, institutions, and social dynamics while gaining experience with research and statistics.
Whether you want to sharpen your skills for professional practice or move into academia, you might consider getting a master’s degree to advance your qualifications.
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For a more flexible approach to graduate studies, you can look at sociology masters programs online that allow you to learn on a schedule that suits your needs.
Masters in Sociology Online Programs
Sociologists are social scientists who study social dynamics, institutions, practices, and communications. Understanding sociology can help you improve communities, help people, and contribute to effective policies.
You may start your graduate program with an overview of sociological theories. After that, you may branch into exploring specific domains through the lens of sociology.
In this program, you may study sociology as it relates to:
- Aging
- Gender
- Economics
- Families
- Medicine
- Religious practice
- Social justice
In addition to studying how sociology applies to those various domains, you will probably learn about research as well. You’ll get to know research methods used in this field and work with statistical techniques for evaluating data sets.
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Colleges use a variety of approaches to analyze what students have learned in a graduate program and prepare them for graduation. For some online sociology masters degrees, students spend multiple weeks on an internship. Other schools have comprehensive exams at the end or ask you to complete a research project. There are also programs with thesis requirements.
An online sociology graduate degree can be a Master of Science (MS) or a Master of Arts (MA). Some colleges consider the master’s in sociology to be a terminal degree. Others, particularly research-heavy MA or MS in Sociology programs that require a thesis, may prepare you for future PhD work.
A master’s degree in sociology could help you take your career in several different directions. Sociological principles are applicable to many different sectors. You could use this degree for a career in social services, nonprofit administration, marketing, or human resources.
You might also have the option of launching an academic career. The job opportunities might include working as a professor, a survey researcher, or a social scientist.
Sociology Careers and Salaries
Some people who enroll in online sociology graduate programs intend to become researchers. They may start as research assistants and eventually take the lead on projects as full sociologists.
Graduates interested in research-related careers could also pursue work as survey researchers who collect data from study participants. Others may want to teach. Sociology professors might need only a master’s degree at some schools, particularly community colleges. With a state teaching license, high school teaching positions may be available as well.
Those interested in working with students could also look into becoming school or career counselors. Most people in that field are employed by K-12 schools or colleges. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for jobs in the life, physical, and social sciences is $72,740.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Marketing Managers | $135,030 |
| Human Resources Managers | $126,230 |
| Sociologists | $92,910 |
| Postsecondary Sociology Teachers | $77,980 |
| Social and Community Service Managers | $74,000 |
| Market Research Analysts | $63,920 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $62,290 |
| School and Career Counselors and Advisors | $60,510 |
| Survey Researchers | $59,740 |
| Social Science Research Assistants | $49,720 |
Which job track is best for you may depend, in part, on your previous experience before earning your sociology master’s degree. The principles of sociology play a key role in social service and nonprofit work. A masters degree could be good preparation for a job in social and community service management.
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Businesses can use people with sociology training as well. For example, sociology expertise pairs well with human resources. Sociologists can also be useful in marketing research and decision-making.
MA in Sociology Curriculum & Courses
For your sociology master’s degree, you may be required to complete between 30 and 40 credit hours.
Your courses may include ones like the following:
- Assessment of Programs and Projects: There may be a class on social impact assessment (SIA), which evaluates the effects of programs and policies on people and communities.
- Communities and Relationships: This course might compare various societal structures and address methods of creating change in a society.
- Community Leadership: If your goal is to be a practitioner rather than an academic, then you may benefit form a course on professional leadership in community contexts.
- Diversity and Social Justice: This class might address topics such as ethnic diversity, inequality, and strategies for social change.
- Healthcare Sociology: You may contemplate how societal structures influence health outcomes and equity in healthcare access.
- Marriage and Family Studies: You might explore diverse family structures and cultural attitudes toward families as you consider how interpersonal relationships influence society.
- Research in Social Science: In this course, you’ll study how social scientists develop studies, gather data, draw conclusions, and share their findings.
- Sociology Education: You may take a class that prepares you to be a sociology instructor, particularly in college settings.
- Statistical Methods for Social Science: This class will build on your undergraduate knowledge of statistics and equip you with statistical skills that are relevant to sociology research.
- Theories of Sociology: You may study various schools of thought that have been influential in the field of sociology over the last few centuries.
In addition to coursework, your program may include a field experience. Other programs finish the program with thesis papers or comprehensive exams.
How to Choose an Online Masters Degree in Sociology Program
Many colleges offer online masters degrees in sociology. You might ask yourself some questions to help you figure out which program is a good fit for you.
- Am I interested in a concentration? While most schools have generalist sociology programs, some offer a limited selection of concentrations in areas like healthcare or public policy.
- Do I plan to get more education? Some sociology programs are designed as terminal degrees, and others could prepare you for doctoral studies.
- How do I want to end my program? Depending on your preferences, you might want a program with an internship, a capstone project, or a thesis requirement.
- Is this school accredited? There are many regionally accredited colleges with sociology programs, and it’s strategic to choose one of those. That way, you can count on getting a worthwhile education and earning a respected degree.
- What format would I prefer? An online college may hold live classes or allow you to log in for your work at any time of day. Many schools have 100% online programs, but others may require some on-campus coursework.
- What is my budget? It’s helpful to factor in financial matters as you compare schools. The per-credit-hour cost varies among colleges, and your financial aid package will change from school to school, too.
Once you’ve narrowed down the selection, it’s strategic to apply to a few different schools.
Sociology Master Degree Admissions Requirements
To be considered for an online sociology master’s degree program, you’re typically required to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
In addition, the university may request and review your:
- Application form
- Essay or personal statement
- Reference letters
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Transcripts from all colleges attended
While GRE scores have long been requested for graduate admissions, many schools are moving away from that requirement. You can check with your prospective online sociology graduate programs to see whether they ask for test scores.
Graduate Programs in Sociology Accreditation
Whether you are considering sociology master’s programs online or on-campus, it’s advisable to select a regionally accredited school. Colleges that hold regional accreditation have been approved by an independent accrediting agency. That means that they meet or exceed the standards for educational institutions.
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Regionally accredited colleges offer valuable educations. The coursework often transfers from one school to another, and degrees from accredited schools could help you get into more advanced programs, such as PhD studies. Regionally accredited degrees are also helpful when searching for jobs, especially if you hope to work in academia.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
You may be able to secure funding to help you pay for your sociology studies. As you apply to colleges, you can also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Schools will use your results to determine your eligibility for assistance. You might qualify for grants or loans from your state government or federal programs. Grants are yours to keep for educational purposes. Loans, on the other hand, must be repaid, typically with interest. Scholarships can help you pay for school as well.
Some colleges give scholarship money directly to students who meet certain qualifications or are enrolled in particular programs. Independent organizations give out scholarships too. Additionally, you might qualify for workplace funding. Some employers pay a set amount toward their workers’ educational pursuits each month.
What Can I Do with a Masters in Sociology?
With a graduate degree in sociology, some people are able to teach college classes. Community colleges often hire instructors with master’s degrees. Adjunct teaching roles at other universities may be available as well.
Becoming a sociologist is another potential option. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that 41% of sociologists are employed by research and development organizations. Many survey researchers have a background in sociology. Survey researchers may be self-employed or work for service organizations of various sorts.
Sociology skills could also be useful for jobs in market research analytics. Some experienced professionals end up in marketing management roles.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Masters Degree in Sociology Online?
If you’re a full-time student, you might be able to get your online sociology degree within 1 to 2 years. Sociology masters degrees often require between 30 and 40 credit hours. If you don’t have a thesis to write before graduation, then 2 years or less is a reasonable timeframe to expect.
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Going to school online could help put your studies on the shorter end of that timeline. Online programs may offer year-round calendars that are broken up into 8 week terms. Such a schedule can help students power through their course requirements and reach graduation more quickly.
What’s the Difference Between an Online Masters in Sociology vs. Psychology?
If you want to study people, then you might be considering either a sociology degree or a psychology degree. Let’s take a look at how these two disciplines stack up.
| Masters in Sociology | Masters in Psychology |
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Both sociology and psychology graduates could end up working in human resources, marketing, or social services.
What’s the Difference Between a Master Degree in Sociology vs. Anthropology?
If you want to get a master’s degree in the social sciences, you could study sociology or anthropology. The following chart may help you decide which discipline is right for you.
| Master Degree in Sociology | Master Degree in Anthropology |
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Both anthropologists and sociologists can be researchers who lead studies or teach in college settings.
Is an Online Masters in Sociology Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online masters in sociology degree is worth it for many professionals. Becoming a sociologist usually requires at least a master’s degree. If that’s the career you want to pursue, then it’s necessary to get this degree.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for sociologists are projected to grow at a 5% rate over the next ten years, which is on par with the national average for job growth. Sociologists with the ability to collaborate across disciplines—such as those who can partner with economists—may be especially in demand. Their expertise may help shape policy development in sectors like criminal justice and healthcare.
Universities Offering Online Masters in Sociology Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
American Public University offers a Master of Arts in Sociology. The program is centered on the principles of diversity, inclusion, equality, globalism, social change, and social justice. The curriculum spans 30 credit hours. Students can complete their classes asynchronously online and have around-the-clock access to course materials.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Arizona State University offers a 100% online program for a Master of Arts in Sociology. The program covers key skills like research methods, statistics, critical thinking, collaboration, and idea exchange. The curriculum consists of 10 classes that are each 7.5 weeks long. After graduation, many students pursue careers in social work, case management, or human resources.
Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Auburn University offers a Master of Social Work. The curriculum is designed to help students develop the theoretical and hands-on skills needed to excel in the field of social work. Students with no previous degrees in the discipline must complete a minimum of 61 credit hours to graduate. Classes can be completed fully online.
Auburn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
California State University San Marcos offers a Master of Arts in Sociological Practice. Potential classes include Social Institutions and Justice, Sociological Advocacy, and Critical Perspectives in Sociological Practice. Students attending full-time can typically complete their requirements in 2 years, while part-time students often finish in 3 years. Classes either meet in the evening on-campus or online.
CSU – San Marcos is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
Emporia State University offers a Master of Arts in Applied Sociology. This program seeks to teach students how to intervene and affect positive change in a variety of industries and communities. Students can specialize in either Community Leadership or Criminal Justice. The program utilizes a 100% online learning format.
Emporia State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Fayetteville State University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Sociology. Many graduates pursue careers in fields such as human services, analytics, education, the criminal justice system, and management. Students can choose to culminate their studies with a thesis or a non-thesis project. The program admits new students twice yearly.
Fayetteville State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Georgia Southern University offers a Master of Arts in Social Science. This interdisciplinary program combines concepts from fields like Anthropology, Political Science, and Sociology. Students can choose between an Applied and Public Service track or a Research Thesis track depending on their professional goals. Classes utilize either fully online or hybrid learning models.
Georgia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Grand Canyon University offers a Master of Science in Sociology with an emphasis in Education. This program is designed for students interested in pursuing educational roles in the academic field. The curriculum focuses on four main areas of study: teaching, theory, societal arrangement and change, and family and global perspectives. All classes meet online.
Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Idaho State University offers a Master of Arts in Sociology. The curriculum covers key concepts like criminology, environmental sociology, sexuality, social theory, gender studies, research methods, and social psychology. The program utilizes a convenient online learning format. Students must complete 33 credit hours, comprehensive examinations, and a thesis to graduate.
Idaho State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Morehead State University offers a Master of Arts in Sociology. The curriculum is designed to provide students with deep knowledge of interactions and issues within individuals. The program spans 36 total credit hours and offers concentrations in Criminology, General Sociology, and Chemical Dependency. Students can complete all requirements in a fully online learning format.
Morehead State University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
New Mexico State University offers a Master of Arts in Sociology. This program focuses on social inequality and diverse research methods in relation to education, race, ethnicity, gender, and sexuality. Students can attend classes entirely online. On average, students can complete the program after 3 semesters of full-time study.
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Sam Houston State University offers an online program for a Master of Arts in Sociology. The curriculum is designed to provide students with essential skills, such as grant writing, program evaluation, impact assessment, social justice, and community-based outreach. Students must complete a minimum of 37 credit hours to graduate. The program admits new students twice yearly.
Sam Houston State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The Master of Science in Sociology at South Dakota State University offers a fully online concentration in Community Development. Students who are passionate about affecting change in their communities may find an excellent fit in this program. The program offers specialties in Native Communities, Natural Resource Management, Non-profit Management, and Economic Capacity.
SDSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Texas A&M University—Commerce offers a Master of Science in Sociology. The program’s convenient online learning model is designed with busy working professionals in mind. On average, students can complete the program’s 30 required credit hours in 2 years. Students culminate their studies with a non-thesis project.
Texas A&M University-Commerce is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Texas Woman’s University offers a Master of Arts in Sociology. Classes cover topics like statistical and research methods, comparative sociology, criminology, globalization, race, justice, and the sociology of health and illness. The program requires the completion of 30 credits. Classes can be completed fully online, fully in-person, or in a hybrid model of the two.
Texas Woman’s University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Troy University offers a Master’s in Social Science. Students can tailor their coursework to their professional interests by selecting specialty classes in anthropology, criminology, history, geography, political science, psychology, or sociology. Graduates often pursue careers as anthropologists, professors, political scientists, or historians. Students must complete a minimum of 36 hours to graduate.
Troy University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Alabama—Birmingham offers a Master of Arts in Applied Sociology. Potential courses include Applied Sociological Theory, Sociology of Education, and Social Movements, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Students can complete the degree entirely online. Instead of a thesis, students finish their studies with a culminating applied community capstone experience.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor offers a Master of Social Work. This program may be an excellent option for students pursuing careers in social work, counseling, non-profits, or community organizing. Classes meet 100% online. Students attending full-time can often finish the program’s requirements in 3 semesters, while part-time students typically finish in 4 semesters.
The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
The University of the Pacific offers a Master of Social Work. This program is designed to harness students’ existing passions for improving their communities and enhancing human potential by providing them with functional knowledge. This program utilizes a hybrid in-person and online learning format. On average, students can complete the required coursework in 12 to 16 months.
The University of the Pacific is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Master of Science in Sociology. Classes cover diverse topics in the field, such as research methods, data analysis, public sociology, social network analysis, and digital social problems. The curriculum consists of 36 credit hours. Students can complete their degree requirements entirely online.
VCU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Getting Your Master’s Degree in Sociology Online
By earning a master’s degree in sociology, you can expand your research skills and your practical understanding of this social science.
Your education could help prepare you for careers in academia, research, community service, business, or education. Even if you’re a busy professional, it’s possible to get a master’s degree in sociology online. Through innovative distance-learning strategies, you can take classes and dialogue with your fellow students.
You can still receive a robust, respected education through online formats that are offered by accredited schools. If you’re ready to earn your master’s degree in sociology, you can start browsing the selection of accredited colleges with online sociology graduate programs today.
