If you’re looking to advance your sociology education in Kentucky, you’re in luck. The state offers a variety of accredited, high-quality programs for aspiring sociologists, both online and on campus. Whether you’re interested in exploring social theory, research methods, or community engagement, there are schools in Kentucky ready to support your next educational step. With online and hybrid options becoming more prevalent, finding the right program to meet your needs can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve ranked the best online and on-campus sociology programs in Kentucky. Explore our top picks below:
2025 Best Sociology Degrees in Kentucky
2025 Top Five On Campus and Online Sociology Degrees in Kentucky
Kentucky is home to several universities offering outstanding sociology programs, whether you prefer online or in-person learning options. Our rankings highlight the best sociology degrees in the state, considering factors such as program quality, affordability, flexibility, and student outcomes. To ensure transparency, we’ve developed a comprehensive methodology that guides our evaluation process, which you can explore in detail on our Methodology Page. This approach ensures that our recommendations reflect the needs of students seeking high-quality education in Kentucky.
Here are the top sociology programs in Kentucky:
1. University of Louisville – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Louisville
Program Overview: University of Louisville (UofL) offers a Bachelor of Science in Sociology program that covers social theory, race and ethnicity, and inequality studies. Students benefit from various research opportunities and community engagement projects.
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2. University of Pikeville – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Pikeville
Program Overview: The University of Pikeville (UPike) offers a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a focus on rural sociology, community development, and social services. Students can take advantage of small class sizes and personalized support.
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3. Eastern Kentucky University – Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Richmond
Program Overview: Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) provides a flexible Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program designed for both traditional and non-traditional students. The program is available online and in-person, with a focus on applied sociology and social justice.
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4. Murray State University – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Murray
Program Overview: Murray State University provides a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program emphasizing social theory, data analysis, and diversity studies. The program offers research opportunities and hands-on internships.
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5. University of Kentucky – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Lexington
Program Overview: University of Kentucky (UK) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program that emphasizes social research, inequality, and community engagement. The program can be completed on campus or fully online.
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What Sociology Degrees Are Available in Kentucky?
Kentucky offers a range of sociology degree levels to match different career and academic goals:
- Associate Degrees: Typically two-year programs that provide foundational knowledge and can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree program.
- Bachelor’s Degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts (BA): Focuses on qualitative research, theory, and cultural studies.
- Bachelor of Science (BS): Emphasizes quantitative research, data analysis, and applied sociology.
- Master’s Degrees: Advanced degrees that prepare students for leadership roles, research positions, or further doctoral studies.
- Doctoral Degrees: Suitable for research-intensive careers, academia, and leadership positions.
In addition to being able to take advantage of the wide variety of on-campus options for obtaining these degrees in Kentucky, students living in the state can also take advantage of online degree opportunities from Universities throughout the United States. Online degrees provide high-quality learning opportunities and allow students to take advantage of living at home or continuing their careers while they earn their degrees. If you are seeking a degree not offered in your state, visit our degrees page to find the best online options.
Fastest Sociology Degree Program Options
For Kentucky students looking to complete their degree quickly, accelerated programs and transfer credits can help you graduate sooner. Here are some of the fastest sociology degree options in Kentucky:
| School | Program | Length/Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kentucky | BA in Sociology | 3 years (accelerated) | Fully Online & On-Campus |
| Eastern Kentucky University | BA in Sociology | 3–4 years (with transfer credits) | Fully Online |
| Murray State University | BA in Sociology | 3–4 years (accelerated option) | 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 speed up their timelines by transferring credits from community colleges, prior coursework, or Advanced Placement (AP) exams. Many universities also offer credit for life or work experience, allowing non-traditional students to bypass certain requirements. Online programs often provide more flexibility with self-paced courses, enabling motivated learners to complete their degrees ahead of schedule. To make the most of these options, students should work closely with academic advisors to plan their course schedules effectively and take advantage of available resources.
Cheapest Sociology Degree Program Options
For budget-conscious students, several universities in Kentucky offer affordable sociology programs with competitive tuition rates. Here are some of the most affordable options:
| School | Program | Tuition Range (Per Year) | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Kentucky University | BA in Sociology | $7,500–$9,500 | Fully Online & On-Campus |
| Murray State University | BA in Sociology | $8,000–$10,000 | On-Campus |
| University of Kentucky | BA in Sociology | $8,500–$10,500 | Fully Online & On-Campus |
These schools offer reasonable tuition rates along with financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. For Kentucky residents, in-state tuition provides a significant cost advantage, making higher education more accessible. Additionally, many of these universities provide flexible payment plans to help students manage their expenses while pursuing their degrees. Online learning options can further reduce costs by eliminating commuting and housing expenses, which is ideal for working professionals or those with family commitments. Students are encouraged to explore institutional scholarships and grants specific to sociology majors to further lower their financial burden. By combining affordability with high-quality education, these programs ensure that students receive excellent value for their investment.
Additional Sociology Programs in Kentucky
If you’re exploring more sociology degree options, consider these additional programs in Kentucky:
Northern Kentucky University: Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, focusing on social inequality, criminology, and cultural studies. The program emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, preparing students for careers in social services, education, and policy-making.
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Western Kentucky University: Provides a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, emphasizing topics such as social theory, research methods, and community engagement. Students can participate in internships and research opportunities to gain practical experience.
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Morehead State University: Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, focusing on societal issues, cultural dynamics, and human interaction. The program includes hands-on learning opportunities through internships and research projects.
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Bellarmine University: Provides a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology that explores themes of social justice, inequality, and global perspectives. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in public service, advocacy, and research.
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Campbellsville University: Offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis on understanding societal structures, human behavior, and cultural diversity. The program integrates Christian values and encourages community involvement.
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Kentucky offers a variety of excellent sociology degree programs with flexible, affordable, and accelerated options. Whether you prefer online learning or traditional classroom settings, there are numerous opportunities to study sociology and build a rewarding career in social services, human resources, research, and public policy.