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.

2026 Best Associate in Sociology Programs

Welcome to sociologydegree.org, where we guide you to the best associate in sociology programs. Our team carefully reviews each program to help you find the right fit for your education. We focus on factors like affordability, flexibility, and quality instruction. At sociologydegree.org, we are proud to provide these rankings to support your academic journey. Online programs are important because they offer flexibility for busy students, making education more accessible through distance learning and remote options. This is especially helpful for those balancing work or family. For details on how we rank programs, check out our methodology at https://www.sociologydegree.org/methodology/.

Santa Ana College

Santa Ana, CA - Public 4-Year - sac.edu

Associate - Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer (AA-T)

Online Learning - Visit Website

Santa Ana College's online Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer (AA-T) delivers a comprehensive two-year curriculum exploring social dynamics, human relationships, and critical societal issues. This accelerated program emphasizes analytical skills, cultural diversity, and an interdisciplinary approach with a focus on social psychology. It guarantees junior standing at CSU campuses and features flexible 8-week course modules, allowing students to balance education with personal commitments. The program includes 60 transferable units and prepares students for seamless transfer to four-year universities without requiring entrance exams like ACT or SAT.

Two-year online program
Guaranteed CSU transfer
8-week flexible courses
60 total transferable units
Includes sociology core courses
Social psychology focus
Critical thinking emphasis
Interdisciplinary approach
Online cohort learning
Prepares for advanced study

College of the Desert

Palm Desert, CA - Public 2-Year - collegeofthedesert.edu

Associate - Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

College of the Desert's Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer offers a hybrid learning format, blending online and in-person coursework to explore human interactions and societal structures. This program emphasizes critical thinking, research methodologies, and multicultural perspectives, preparing students for university transfer with guaranteed admission to the CSU system. It requires 60 transferable units, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and 18-19 major units, focusing on social dynamics and analytical skills without a specified concentration. No entrance exams like ACT or SAT are mentioned for this associate-level program, making it accessible for diverse learners seeking foundational sociology education.

60 CSU transferable units
Guaranteed CSU admission
Minimum 2.0 GPA required
18-19 major units
Diverse course selection
Critical thinking focus
Multicultural perspective
Research methods training
Flexible elective options

San Diego Miramar College

San Diego, CA - Public 2-Year - sdmiramar.edu

Associate - Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

San Diego Miramar College offers a hybrid Associate in Sociology program that blends online and in-person learning for flexibility. This comprehensive curriculum delves into human interactions, social structures, and cultural dynamics, equipping students with critical analytical and research skills. Graduates are prepared for roles in non-profits, government, and business, with strong transfer pathways to four-year degrees in social work, criminology, and urban studies. The program emphasizes applied sociological perspectives and interpersonal skills, without requiring entrance exams like ACT or SAT, making it accessible for diverse learners seeking foundational knowledge in the social sciences.

Associate of Arts Transfer available
Multiple learning formats
Transferable skills development
Entry-level career preparation
Diverse transfer major options
Social sciences focus
Critical thinking emphasis
Research methodology training
Interpersonal skills enhancement
Applied sociological perspectives

Georgia Military College

Milledgeville, GA - Public 4-Year - gmc.edu

Associate - Sociology Associate’s Degree

Online Learning - Visit Website

Georgia Military College's Sociology Associate's Degree is a fully online program that delivers a comprehensive liberal arts education focused on developing critical thinking and scientific research skills. With an affordable annual cost of $8,280, this flexible program features quarterly start dates and transfer-friendly credits, making it ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement or further education. The curriculum emphasizes the scientific method and leadership development, preparing graduates for diverse fields such as psychology, anthropology, and urban planning without requiring entrance exams like ACT or SAT.

100% Online Associate Degree
Annual Cost: $8,280
Transfer-friendly Credits
Learner-centered Environment
Scientific Method Focus
Liberal Arts Foundation
Multiple Career Paths
Quarterly Start Dates
Accredited Program
Leadership Skills Development

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's Associate of Arts in Psychology/Sociology is a hybrid program blending online and in-person learning, ideal for students pursuing human services careers or further university studies. It emphasizes foundational social science knowledge, covering individual and group dynamics, mental health, and social problem analysis. The curriculum includes research methodology training and insights into racial and ethnic issues, preparing graduates for roles in counseling, rehabilitation, and social support. As an associate-level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams. This transfer degree offers flexible pathways for career advancement or continued education in sociology-related fields.

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

Joliet Junior College

Joliet, IL - Public 2-Year - jjc.edu

Associate - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Concentration: Sociology - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Joliet Junior College's Associate in Sociology program, offered in a hybrid format, delves into human behavior and social dynamics with a focus on cultural diversity and gender studies. This transfer-friendly curriculum includes 8- to 16-week courses that blend face-to-face and online learning, equipping students with critical analytical skills for seamless progression to four-year institutions. As an associate-level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams, preparing graduates for diverse professional fields through practical insights into social structures and interactions.

Sociology courses available
Transfer-friendly program
Diverse course topics
Face-to-face and online classes
Courses range 8-16 weeks
Study gender and diversity
Part of Social Sciences Department

Austin Community College District

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

Associate - Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

Austin Community College District's fully online Associate in Sociology program offers a comprehensive exploration of social dynamics and human behavior. Students develop critical analytical skills to examine cultural patterns and societal structures through courses in sociological research methods. This program provides 12 transferable semester credits approved by Texas Higher Education, preparing learners for baccalaureate transfer or diverse career paths in social services and research. The curriculum emphasizes understanding social phenomena and behavior patterns, delivering marketable skills for human-centered professions in a flexible online format.

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

Houston Community College

Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - hccs.edu

Associate - Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Houston Community College's hybrid Associate in Arts in Sociology program immerses students in the study of human social interactions, institutions, and cultural dynamics, with no specified concentration. It emphasizes social science research, offering fully transferable courses that lead to promising career prospects, including median annual wages around $43,000. The program is available in a hybrid format, combining online and campus-based learning for flexibility, and does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam. Graduates are prepared for further academic pursuits or entry-level research positions, supported by strong local job growth and opportunities in Houston.

Associate in Arts degree
Fully transferable courses
Social science research focus
Online and campus options
Median wages $43,000 annually
128 research jobs in Houston
25.8% job growth expected
16 annual job openings

Blinn College District

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

Associate - Associate of Arts in Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

Blinn College District's Associate of Arts in Sociology offers a hybrid learning format, blending online flexibility with in-person components. This two-year program emphasizes critical thinking and data analysis to explore human interactions and societal structures. It prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions and careers in regulatory affairs, compliance, or social research, with no ACT or SAT required for admission. The curriculum is designed to be affordable and accessible across multiple campuses, fostering collaborative skills through the study of groups and social challenges.

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

#10

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 with a Social Work concentration provides a 60-hour hybrid program blending online and campus learning. It emphasizes social work principles, preparing students for careers in social services, public policy, and criminology through courses on sociological research and theories. The curriculum is transfer-ready, fostering critical analytical skills to address societal challenges, with no ACT or SAT required for this associate-level program.

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

Galveston College offers an Associate of Arts in Sociology/Social Work as a 60-hour hybrid program, featuring online and campus options for flexibility. This degree builds a strong foundation in social dynamics and research methodologies, equipping students for diverse paths in criminology, government, and law. Focused on seamless transfer to four-year institutions, it develops critical thinking without requiring ACT or SAT exams, ideal for those aiming to tackle complex social issues affordably.

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

Show 1 More Programs ˅

*Citation: IPEDS 2023, National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. DOE.

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.