If you’re looking to obtain your sociology degree in South Carolina, 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 South Carolina 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, cheapest, and fastest online and on-campus sociology programs in South Carolina. Explore our top picks below:
2025 Best Sociology Degrees in South Carolina

2025 Top Five On Campus and Online Sociology Degrees in South Carolina
South Carolina is home to several universities offering excellent sociology programs with both online and in-person learning options. Here are the best sociology degrees in South Carolina:
1. Furman University – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Program Overview: Furman University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology that emphasizes critical thinking, research, and understanding social structures. Students have access to hands-on research projects, internships, and study-away opportunities.
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2. University of South Carolina-Columbia – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Program Overview: University of South Carolina-Columbia provides a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Sociology that covers areas such as social theory, race and ethnicity, and data analysis. Students can take advantage of research opportunities, service-learning, and internships.
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3. Clemson University – Bachelor of Science in Sociology
Program Overview: Clemson University offers a Bachelor of Science in Sociology focusing on data-driven analysis, social behavior, and community engagement. Students gain access to research initiatives and internships to prepare for a variety of careers.
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4. Francis Marion University – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Program Overview: Francis Marion University features a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program that combines social theory with applied research. The program offers flexible learning options, internships, and service-learning experiences.
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5. Coastal Carolina University – Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Program Overview: Coastal Carolina University provides a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a focus on applied sociology, social justice, and cultural studies. The program is available online or on campus, catering to traditional and non-traditional students alike.
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What Sociology Degrees Are Available in South Carolina?
South Carolina 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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina students looking to complete their sociology degree quickly, accelerated programs and transfer credits can help you graduate sooner. Here are some of the fastest sociology degree options in South Carolina:
School | Program | Length/Credits | Online Availability |
University of South Carolina | BA in Sociology | 3 years (accelerated) | Fully Online & On-Campus |
Coastal Carolina University | BA in Sociology | 3–4 years (with transfer credits) | Fully Online |
Clemson University | BS 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
Affordability is key for many students, and several universities in South Carolina offer sociology programs with competitive tuition rates. Here are some of the most affordable sociology programs in the state:
School | Program | Tuition Range (Per Year) | Online Availability |
Coastal Carolina University | BA in Sociology | $7,500–$9,500 | Fully Online & On-Campus |
University of South Carolina | BA in Sociology | $8,000–$10,000 | Fully Online & On-Campus |
Clemson University | BS in Sociology | $8,500–$10,500 | On-Campus |
These schools offer reasonable tuition rates along with financial aid options, such as scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. For South Carolina 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 Virginia
If you’re exploring more sociology degree options, consider these additional programs in South Carolina:
- Winthrop University: Offers a BA in Sociology with a focus on ethics, social justice, and community service.
Program Link - College of Charleston: Provides a BA in Sociology with an emphasis on research and cultural studies.
Program Link - University of South Carolina Upstate: Offers a BA in Sociology with hands-on research and internship opportunities.
Program Link - South Carolina State University: Provides a BA in Sociology with a focus on social work and applied research.
Program Link - Lander University: Offers a BA in Sociology with a strong emphasis on social theory and policy analysis.
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