Online Associate's Degree in Sociology

An Associate’s degree in Sociology offers students a foundational understanding of human social behavior, societal dynamics, and cultural issues. This degree provides an excellent starting point for those interested in exploring how society functions and prepares students for various career paths or further academic study.

For those who enjoy working with people and studying human interactions, an Associate’s in Sociology can be a stepping stone to roles that require strong communication and analytical skills. It also lays the groundwork for transferring to a four-year program to complete a Bachelor’s degree, offering the flexibility to specialize in areas like cultural studies, social research, or applied sociology in the future.

2025 Best Associate in Sociology Programs

Exploring the best associate in sociology programs can set the foundation for a rewarding career in social sciences. At sociologydegree.org, we've ranked top programs to help you find the right fit. Our rankings focus on quality, affordability, and student success. Start your journey with a program that matches your goals. For a detailed look at how we rank these programs, visit our methodology page. Discover which schools lead the way in sociology education and why they stand out.

Alvin Community College

Alvin, TX - Public 2-Year - alvincollege.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Alvin Community College offers an Associate of Arts in Sociology entirely online, designed to lay a solid foundation in understanding human behavior and social dynamics. This two-year program is tailored for students aiming for careers in counseling, criminal justice, teaching, and public relations, among others. It covers essential topics such as social research, human interactions, minority relations, and societal structures. With an annual tuition fee ranging from $4,200 to $9,840, the program is both affordable and accessible, making it an excellent choice for working professionals and those planning to transfer to a four-year institution. The curriculum is transfer-friendly and prepares students for the expected growth in sociology-related careers.

Fully online A.A. degree
Four semester completion
Tuition $4,200-$9,840 yearly
Transfer-friendly curriculum
Career paths in diverse fields
Study human behavior comprehensively
Statistical methods training
Sociology job growth expected

Arizona Western College

Yuma, AZ - Public 2-Year - azwestern.edu

Associate - Psychology/Sociology - A.A. Transfer Degree

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Arizona Western College offers an Associate of Arts in Psychology/Sociology, a hybrid program designed for students interested in the social sciences. This two-year degree provides a comprehensive foundation in psychology and sociology, preparing graduates for entry-level roles in human services and social work. The curriculum emphasizes understanding social interactions, mental health, and research methodologies, offering a pathway to further education and careers in counseling, rehabilitation, and social support. With a focus on individual and group dynamics, social problem analysis, and insights into racial and ethnic issues, students are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

A.A. Transfer Degree
Entry-level human services preparation
Multiple career pathway options
Research methodology training
Learn individual and group dynamics
Social problem analysis skills
Mental health understanding
Racial and ethnic issue insights

Austin Community College District

Austin, TX - Public 4-Year - austincc.edu

Associate - Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Austin Community College District offers an Associate in Sociology program entirely online, designed to delve into the intricacies of social dynamics and human behavior. This program stands out for its focus on societal structures, cultural patterns, and social interactions, providing students with a deep understanding of social phenomena. It prepares students for a variety of career paths in social services, research, and other human-centered professions. The program boasts transferable credits, a comprehensive curriculum, and the development of marketable skills in sociological research methods and cultural analysis. Highlights include a fully online A.A. degree, 12 transferable semester credits, and preparation for baccalaureate transfer, among others.

Fully online A.A. degree
12 transferable semester credits
Texas Higher Education approved
Learn sociological research methods
Prepares for baccalaureate transfer
Multiple career pathway options
Analyzes social behavior patterns

Blinn College District

Brenham, TX - Public 2-Year - blinn.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Blinn College District offers an Associate of Arts in Sociology, blending online and on-campus learning to explore human interactions and societal structures. This hybrid program is tailored for students aiming to transfer to four-year institutions, focusing on critical thinking, data analysis, and understanding social dynamics. It prepares graduates for careers in social research, compliance management, and beyond, with a curriculum designed to be transferable to major universities. Affordable tuition and flexible study options make it an attractive choice for aspiring sociologists, aiming for a median sociologist salary of $101,770.

Associate of Arts in Sociology
Transfer-ready curriculum
Online and multi-campus options
Median sociologist salary $101,770
Transferable to major universities
Develops critical thinking skills
Prepares for diverse careers
Comprehensive social analysis program

Galveston College

Galveston, TX - Public 4-Year - gc.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology/Social Work

Concentration: Social Work - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Galveston College's Associate of Arts in Sociology/Social Work program is a 60-hour hybrid degree designed for students aiming to transfer to four-year institutions. It offers a robust foundation in sociological theories, research, and principles, preparing students for careers in criminology, social work, public policy, and criminal justice. The program emphasizes critical analytical skills for understanding social interactions and cultural phenomena, with online course options available for flexibility. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths, with starting salaries around $40,376, and benefit from a transfer-ready curriculum focused on social and behavioral sciences.

Associate of Arts Degree
60-hour comprehensive program
Transfer-ready curriculum
Online course options available
Prepares for multiple career paths
Starting salaries around $40,376
Core curriculum transferable
Social and behavioral science focus

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology/Social Work

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

At Galveston College, the Associate of Arts in Sociology/Social Work program offers a 60-hour hybrid curriculum tailored for transfer students. This program delves into social dynamics, research methodologies, and critical thinking, preparing students for careers in criminology, social work, public policy, government, and law. With affordable tuition and flexible online and campus learning options, it ensures a seamless transition to four-year institutions. Students gain a deep understanding of complex social interactions, equipping them for meaningful careers that address societal challenges, supported by a curriculum that emphasizes social and behavioral sciences.

Associate of Arts Degree
60-hour comprehensive program
Transfer-friendly curriculum
Online and campus options
Diverse career preparation paths
Starting salaries around $40,376
Social and behavioral science focus
Prepares for four-year colleges

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Navarro College

Corsicana, TX - Public 4-Year - navarrocollege.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Navarro College's Associate of Arts in Sociology is designed for students eager to delve into the complexities of human social interactions and societal structures. This program, offered entirely online, caters to a wide range of students by providing flexibility and accessibility. It lays a solid foundation for further academic pursuits at four-year universities, emphasizing critical thinking, societal dynamics, and the intricacies of social systems. With a curriculum that highlights diversity, social justice, and analytical methodologies, students are equipped to understand and analyze human behavior in various contexts. The program is structured over four semesters, focusing on developing skills essential for advanced sociological study and understanding.

100% Online Delivery
Four-semester Program Length
Transfer Pathway Degree
Focuses on Social Justice
Develops Critical Thinking Skills

New England College

Henniker, NH - Private 4-year - nec.edu

Associate - Sociology, A.A.

Online Learning - Visit Website

New England College's online Associate in Sociology program is a dynamic two-year course that delves into the intricacies of social dynamics, human behavior, and pressing social issues. With a curriculum that spans topics from social psychology to inequality and deviance, students are equipped with a robust foundation in sociology. The program emphasizes the development of critical research and writing skills, preparing students for both further academic study and entry-level positions in the social sciences. Offering a flexible elective structure and a focus on social justice, this program is designed to meet Liberal Arts requirements while fostering a deep understanding of societal mechanisms.

32 total credits
Online continuing education program
Explores social justice topics
Research-focused curriculum
Meets Liberal Arts requirements
Courses on social inequality
Includes social psychology
Writing and research skills
Multiple course options
Flexible elective structure

New Mexico Highlands University

Las Vegas, NM - Public 4-Year - nmhu.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

New Mexico Highlands University offers an Associate of Arts in Social and Behavioral Sciences, a hybrid program designed to lay a solid foundation in the social sciences. Over two years and 65 credit hours, students delve into sociology, anthropology, psychology, and criminal justice, gaining a comprehensive understanding of human behavior and societal structures. The program emphasizes research methods and statistics, alongside flexible elective options, to prepare students for transfer to a bachelor's degree. With a curriculum that balances required courses with opportunities for academic exploration, graduates are well-equipped for diverse career paths and further education in the social sciences.

Two-year associate degree program
25 credit hours required courses
65 total credit hours
Courses in sociology, anthropology
Foundation for bachelor's transfer
Intro to Statistics included
Research methods course
Flexible elective options
Core courses across social sciences

Northern Wyoming Community College District

Sheridan, WY - Public 2-Year - sheridan.edu

Associate - Associate of Arts in Social Science

Online Learning - Visit Website

Northern Wyoming Community College District offers an Associate of Arts in Social Science, blending psychology, anthropology, and sociology into a comprehensive curriculum. This program stands out for its flexibility, offering both online and on-campus learning options to accommodate diverse student needs. It's designed to facilitate easy transfer to four-year institutions or direct entry into the workforce. With small class sizes and access to expert faculty, students receive personalized attention and a deep understanding of societal dynamics. This program is ideal for those aiming to explore various social science disciplines while preparing for future academic or career advancements in a rapidly changing world.

Associate of Arts degree available
Online and campus options
Transfer-friendly program
Small class sizes
Expert faculty members
Courses in multiple disciplines
Supports career/education goals
Proximity to research sites
Flexible elective choices
Strong industry outlook

#10

Panola College

Carthage, TX - Public 2-Year - panola.edu

Associate - Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Panola College offers a dynamic Associate in Sociology program, blending online and in-person learning to explore human behavior and societal structures. This hybrid program emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and understanding cultural diversity, preparing students for further education or careers in social sciences. With flexible course formats and durations, it caters to a wide range of students, fostering skills in empirical and qualitative research. Unique opportunities like service learning and field trips enrich the academic experience, making it a standout choice for aspiring sociologists.

Part of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Multiple course format options
Year-round course availability
4, 8, 16-week course formats
Supports university transfer
Critical thinking skills focus
Empirical and qualitative data training
Service learning opportunities
Field trip experiences
Case study methodology

*National Center for Education Statistics. (2023). IPEDS data system. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

An Associate’s degree in Sociology is a two-year undergraduate program that provides a foundational understanding of human behavior, social structures, and societal dynamics. Students explore topics such as culture, inequality, race, gender, and social change through introductory coursework and applied learning. This degree equips graduates with essential analytical and communication skills, preparing them for entry-level roles in social services, community outreach, and administrative support or as a stepping stone to further academic study.

Associate’s programs in sociology are offered by community colleges, technical schools, and some online institutions. Many programs are designed to accommodate diverse student needs, offering flexible options like part-time schedules, evening classes, and fully online formats. For those planning to pursue a Bachelor’s degree, these programs often include transferable credits to help students seamlessly transition to a four-year institution.

Who Should Get an Online Associate's Degree in Sociology?

Importance of Accreditation

When selecting an associate’s degree program in sociology, ensure the institution is accredited by a recognized accrediting body, such as those listed by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (DOE). Accreditation ensures the program meets rigorous academic standards, and credits earned from accredited institutions are transferable to four-year colleges or universities. Employers and higher education institutions widely recognize degrees from accredited schools. For more details, visit CHEA or DOE websites.

Ideal Candidates

An associate’s degree in sociology is well-suited for individuals who:

Are curious about social behavior and societal structures.
Possess strong communication and analytical skills.
Are motivated to address social issues such as inequality, discrimination, or poverty.

Graduates often use this degree as a pathway to careers in social services, community outreach, or administrative roles. Additionally, it serves as a stepping stone for those planning to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in sociology or related fields like social work, public policy, or education.

Online vs. Campus-Based Programs

Online Programs:

Offer flexibility for students juggling work or family commitments.
Typically more affordable and accessible, allowing students to complete coursework from anywhere.

Campus-Based Programs:

Provide face-to-face interaction with faculty and classmates.
Offer access to campus resources such as libraries, labs, and career services.

Both online and campus-based programs can deliver a high-quality education. Students should choose the format that best aligns with their learning preferences and personal circumstances.

Fast & Affordable Online Associate’s Degree Programs

Discuss accreditation for sociology degree programs, link to accrediting agencies, discuss why accreditation is important.

The average length of an associate’s degree in sociology is two years for full-time students. However, some online programs offer accelerated options that can be completed in as little as 12 to 18 months, especially if students transfer credits or have prior learning experience. Tuition costs for associate’s degree programs vary significantly, typically ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 per year, depending on whether the institution is a community college, private school, or state-funded program.

Quickest Associate's Degrees

For students looking to earn an associate’s degree in sociology quickly, options include accelerated programs, competency-based education, and generous credit transfer policies for prior coursework or experience. Below are examples of shorter sociology programs:

School Name	Program Length	Credits Required	Online Availability
Rio Salado College	12–18 months (accelerated)	60	Fully Online
Southern New Hampshire University	18 months (accelerated)	60	Fully Online
Ivy Tech Community College	2 years (with transfer credits)	60	Fully Online & On-Campus

Accelerated programs often allow students to take more credits per semester or enroll in condensed summer courses to finish their degrees faster. Additionally, students can expedite their timelines by transferring credits from Advanced Placement (AP) exams, dual enrollment courses, or prior learning experiences. Many colleges also offer credit for professional experience or certifications, enabling non-traditional students to bypass certain coursework requirements.

Online programs provide added flexibility, often with self-paced courses that allow motivated learners to complete their degrees ahead of schedule. To maximize these options, students should collaborate with academic advisors to map out an efficient course plan and explore available resources, such as financial aid and academic support services.

Cheapest Associate's Degrees

Affordable options for earning an associate’s degree in sociology are often found at community colleges, state schools, or fully online programs. Below are some of the most budget-friendly choices:

School Name	Tuition Range (Per Year)	Online Availability
Rio Salado College	$2,500–$3,500	Fully Online
Clovis Community College	$2,700–$4,000	Fully Online
University of the People	Tuition-Free (pay per exam)	Fully Online

These schools offer low tuition rates along with financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Community colleges, in particular, provide significant savings, and in-state tuition rates make these programs even more affordable for local students. Flexible payment plans are often available, helping students manage their finances while pursuing their education.

Online programs further reduce costs by eliminating expenses associated with commuting, housing, and campus-based fees. These programs are especially convenient for working adults or those with family responsibilities. Students are encouraged to explore institutional scholarships, grants, and state-specific financial aid opportunities for sociology majors to minimize costs. By combining affordability with flexibility, these programs make higher education accessible and offer excellent value for students looking to advance their careers.

Typical Associate's Degree Requirements & Curriculum

Program Requirements for an Associate’s Degree in Sociology

Credits Required: Typically 60–65 credits, depending on the program.
Internships: While not always required, some programs offer optional internships in social services, research, or community organizations.
Admissions Requirements:

High school diploma or GED.
Open admissions for many community colleges, though some may have minimum GPA requirements.
Placement tests in math and English may be required for course placement.

Typical Courses

Associate degree programs in sociology provide an introductory foundation in the social sciences. Common courses include:

Introduction to Sociology
Social Problems
Cultural Diversity
Marriage and Family
Introduction to Social Research
Social Psychology
Sociology of Race and Ethnicity

Specializations

While associate’s degree programs in sociology often focus on general studies, some institutions offer electives or concentrations in areas like:

Criminal Justice: Preparing students for careers in law enforcement or corrections.
Social Work: Laying the groundwork for a transfer to a bachelor’s program in social work.
Healthcare Sociology: Exploring topics related to public health and healthcare systems.
Diversity and Inclusion Studies: Examining issues of equity and social justice.

Transfer Opportunities

Many students use an associate’s degree in sociology as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s program. Researching programs with strong transfer agreements, such as 2+2 pathways with local universities, ensures a smooth transition and maximizes credit transfer toward a four-year degree.