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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. 

 

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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

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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.
 

 

Careers and Job Outlooks

 

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 ´ó·¢ 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 ´ó·¢'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 ´ó·¢ 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 ´ó·¢ will review these experiences on a case-by-case basis to determine eligibility.