Find Your Future Online Sociology Degree in California

California may be known for its scenic coastlines and vibrant cities, but it also stands out as a leading hub for accessible higher education—particularly through online sociology degree programs. Whether you’re interested in examining social behavior, conducting research, or advancing community development, online learning platforms make it possible to gain a quality sociology education without stepping foot on campus.

With a growing number of accredited online degree options available across the state, students can choose flexible, remote programs tailored to their personal and professional needs. From asynchronous coursework to virtual faculty support, online sociology programs offer the academic rigor of traditional degrees with the convenience of remote access. As the demand for skilled sociologists continues to rise, pursuing an online degree in sociology can be a strategic and efficient pathway to a meaningful career in the social sciences.

The Best Sociology Degree in California

What Online Sociology Degree Level Options Are Available in California?

California 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 California, 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 online sociology degree resource.


2026 Best Online Sociology Degrees in California

Looking for the best online sociology degrees in California? You've come to the right place. At sociologydegree.org, we carefully rank these programs to help you find one that fits your needs. Online programs make it easier for busy people to study from anywhere, offering flexibility that fits into your life. With options for distance learning and remote classes, you can earn your degree without moving or giving up your job. Our rankings consider important factors like cost, quality, and support. Learn more about how we create our lists at https://www.sociologydegree.org/rankings-methodology/.
#1

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA - Public 4-Year - fullerton.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-Fullerton's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology provides a flexible, high-quality education for students aged 18-30, allowing study on their own schedule. The curriculum integrates foundational sociology with advanced theory and statistics, exploring interpersonal relationships and societal structures to prepare for diverse careers or graduate studies. Admission requires general education prerequisites, and as a bachelor's program, it may require ACT or SAT entrance exams unless otherwise stated. This fully online program is taught by experienced CSUF faculty, emphasizing degree completion without compromising academic rigor.

  • Flexible online degree completion.
  • Taught by experienced CSUF faculty.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
#2

California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA - Public 4-Year - csub.edu

Bachelor's - Sociology, BA

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-Bakersfield's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology offers a flexible, fully remote program that delves into human behavior within social frameworks, fostering critical thinking and analytical abilities. With no specified concentration, the curriculum broadly prepares students for roles in social work, counseling, or market research. Admission requires a 2.3 GPA and 60 transferable semester units; no ACT or SAT is mentioned as required. Tuition is approximately $370 per credit, and applications are accepted year-round with priority deadlines in February and October, making it an affordable and accessible option for career advancement.

  • Flexible online learning.
  • Affordable tuition.
  • Diverse career opportunities.
#3

California State University-East Bay

Hayward, CA - Public 4-Year - csueastbay.edu

Bachelor's - Sociology, B.A. (Online Degree Completion)

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-East Bay's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology is a degree completion program that provides flexibility for students balancing education with other commitments. It delves into social structures, cultural diversity, and human interaction dynamics, preparing graduates for careers in social services, counseling, and education. The curriculum includes core courses in sociological theory and research methods, with diverse electives for customization. As a bachelor's program, it may require ACT or SAT entrance exams; check the university's website for specific admission details. This fully online format supports students at various life stages in achieving their academic goals.

  • Flexible online degree completion program.
  • Prepares for careers in social services, counseling, and education.
  • Offers a wide range of elective courses.
#4

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA - Public 4-Year - calstatela.edu

Master's - Master of Arts in Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Los Angeles offers a Master of Arts in Sociology in a hybrid format, blending online and in-person components for flexibility. This program requires the GRE entrance exam and focuses on advanced sociological theory, qualitative and quantitative research methods, and statistical analysis. Students can choose from three culminating experiences: thesis, comprehensive exam, or project-based portfolio, preparing them for doctoral studies, teaching, or roles in government and private sectors. Highlights include flexible pathways and comprehensive research training, making it ideal for professionals and academics seeking rigorous, adaptable education.

  • Flexible three-option culminating experience pathway
  • Advanced research methods and statistical training
  • Prepares for doctoral, teaching, and professional careers
#5

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, CA - Public 4-Year - csusm.edu

Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-San Marcos provides an accelerated online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, tailored for working professionals and transfer students needing flexible scheduling. This program delves into intricate social dynamics and hones critical research abilities, equipping graduates for careers in social services, research, and community development. As a bachelor's program, it requires an ACT or SAT entrance exam. The fully online format ensures accessibility, with a curriculum that integrates academic theories with practical social insights, emphasizing comprehensive education without a specific concentration.

  • Fully online accelerated sociology degree
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Comprehensive social research curriculum
#6

California Baptist University

Riverside, CA - Private 4-year - calbaptist.edu

Bachelor's - Sociology, BA (Online)

Online Learning - Visit Website

California Baptist University's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology is designed for students seeking to deeply understand social issues and behaviors. This program emphasizes scientific research, writing, and critical thinking skills, preparing graduates for diverse career paths. With rolling admissions and six start dates annually, it offers flexibility for students. The curriculum covers broad sociological topics like marriage and families, medical sociology, and diversity, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of society. At $520 per unit plus fees, it is accessible with financial aid options. As a bachelor's program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams, making it easier to enroll.

  • Flexible online classes start every 8 weeks.
  • Cost: $520 per unit plus applicable fees.
  • Six start dates annually for rolling admissions.
#7

National University

San Diego, CA - Private 4-year - nu.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

National University's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology offers a flexible, accelerated format with 4-week online classes designed for working adults. This program emphasizes critical thinking, qualitative research methods, and digital literacy, preparing graduates for careers in public policy, social services, and administration. The curriculum includes nine core sociology courses, seven upper-division electives, and a capstone project, totaling 180 quarter units. Year-round enrollment and flexible scheduling options are available. No ACT or SAT entrance exam is required for this online bachelor's program.

  • 4-week online classes
  • Year-round enrollment
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • Qualitative research training
  • Digital literacy focus
  • Diverse career preparation
  • Nine core sociology courses
  • Seven upper-division electives
  • Total 180 quarter units required
  • Capstone project requirement

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

National University's hybrid Bachelor of Arts in Sociology combines online and in-person learning, featuring 4-week online classes and flexible scheduling for working adults. Students develop analytical skills to explore social structures, race, gender, and global interactions, with training in practical research methods and digital literacy. The curriculum includes nine core courses and 31.5 quarter units of electives, accredited by WASC. This program does not require an ACT or SAT entrance exam and supports year-round enrollment for career paths in social services and public policy.

  • 4-week online classes
  • Year-round enrollment available
  • 9 core sociology courses
  • 31.5 quarter units of electives
  • Qualitative research methods training
  • Digital literacy skills development
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • WASC accredited program
  • Designed for working adults
Show 1 More Programs ˅
#8

California State University-Chico

Chico, CA - Public 4-Year - csuchico.edu

Bachelor's - BA in Sociology

Online Learning - Visit Website

California State University-Chico's online BA in Sociology provides a comprehensive exploration of social dynamics, issues, and global affairs without requiring entrance exams like ACT or SAT. This flexible program emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing students for careers in social work and public administration through a diverse faculty and accessible online format. It offers financial aid options and focuses on real-world applications, making it ideal for those seeking to understand and impact society from anywhere.

  • Flexible online learning format.
  • Diverse, award-winning faculty.
  • Prepares for impactful careers.
#9

California State University-Monterey Bay

Seaside, CA - Public 4-Year - csumb.edu

Bachelor's - Sociology

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

California State University-Monterey Bay offers a hybrid Sociology B.A. program that blends online flexibility with in-person engagement, allowing students to delve into complex social dynamics without requiring ACT or SAT entrance exams. The curriculum is highly customizable, fostering exploration of diverse sociological specializations while building robust research skills. Students analyze social issues from multiple viewpoints and culminate their studies with an original senior capstone project. Graduates are equipped for careers in teaching, social work, research, public service, and nonprofits, making this program ideal for those seeking adaptable, hands-on learning in sociology.

  • Flexible, customizable curriculum tailored to personal interests.
  • Comprehensive research skills development.
  • Senior capstone project enables original research exploration.
#10

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 is a hybrid online program that prepares students for university transfer with guaranteed CSU system admission. It requires 60 CSU transferable units and a minimum 2.0 GPA, focusing on societal structures, cultural diversity, and research methods. The program emphasizes critical thinking and multicultural perspectives through diverse course selections and flexible electives. Since this is an associate-level program, it does not require ACT or SAT entrance exams.

  • 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
*Data sourced from: NCES IPEDS survey, 2023. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

2026 Fastest Online Sociology Degree Options

Looking for the fastest online sociology degree options in California? You can find programs that fit your schedule, whether you're in Los Angeles, San Francisco, or anywhere else in the state. These online programs let you study from home, making it easier to balance work and life while earning an associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctorate degree by 2026. Distance learning is key because it opens up education to more people, helping you gain skills without moving. Virtual classes offer flexibility, so you can learn at your own pace and connect with others remotely. This approach supports your goals in sociology, preparing you for future opportunities in a changing world.
California State University-Fullerton
  • Flexible online degree completion.
  • Taught by experienced CSUF faculty.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
  • $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,200 - $22,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-San Marcos
  • Fully online accelerated sociology degree
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Comprehensive social research curriculum
  • $6,200 - $9,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,700 - $23,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-East Bay
  • Flexible online degree completion program.
  • Prepares for careers in social services, counseling, and education.
  • Offers a wide range of elective courses.
  • $5,600 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,100 - $22,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-Chico
  • Flexible online learning format.
  • Diverse, award-winning faculty.
  • Prepares for impactful careers.
  • $6,500 - $9,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $16,000 - $23,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-Monterey Bay
  • Flexible, customizable curriculum tailored to personal interests.
  • Comprehensive research skills development.
  • Senior capstone project enables original research exploration.
  • $5,900 - $8,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,500 - $23,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
*Data source: NCES, IPEDS 2023 institutional survey.

2026 Affordable Online Sociology Degree Program Options

This table shows 10 affordable online sociology degree programs in California for 2026. You can find Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctorate degrees. These programs help students across the state, including in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, study from home. Online learning makes education more accessible for busy adults. It lets you balance work and family while earning your degree. Distance learning and virtual classes offer flexibility and convenience. This is important for sociology, which explores how people interact in society. You can start your journey in this field with these options.
California State University-Bakersfield
  • Flexible online learning.
  • Affordable tuition.
  • Diverse career opportunities.
  • $6,200 - $9,200 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,700 - $23,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California Baptist University
  • Flexible online classes start every 8 weeks.
  • Cost: $520 per unit plus applicable fees.
  • Six start dates annually for rolling admissions.
  • $31,800 - $47,700 (Undergraduate)
California State University-Los Angeles
  • Flexible three-option culminating experience pathway
  • Advanced research methods and statistical training
  • Prepares for doctoral, teaching, and professional careers
  • $6,600 - $9,900 (Graduate In-State)
  • $14,200 - $21,300 (Graduate Non-Resident)
California State University-Fullerton
  • Flexible online degree completion.
  • Taught by experienced CSUF faculty.
  • Prepares for diverse career paths.
  • $5,700 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,200 - $22,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-East Bay
  • Flexible online degree completion program.
  • Prepares for careers in social services, counseling, and education.
  • Offers a wide range of elective courses.
  • $5,600 - $8,500 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,100 - $22,700 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-San Marcos
  • Fully online accelerated sociology degree
  • Designed for working professionals
  • Comprehensive social research curriculum
  • $6,200 - $9,300 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,700 - $23,500 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-Monterey Bay
  • Flexible, customizable curriculum tailored to personal interests.
  • Comprehensive research skills development.
  • Senior capstone project enables original research exploration.
  • $5,900 - $8,900 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $15,500 - $23,200 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
California State University-Chico
  • Flexible online learning format.
  • Diverse, award-winning faculty.
  • Prepares for impactful careers.
  • $6,500 - $9,700 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $16,000 - $23,900 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
Santa Ana College
  • 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
  • $900 - $1,400 (Undergrad In-State)
  • $7,600 - $11,400 (Undergrad Non-Resident)
National University
  • 4-week online classes
  • Year-round enrollment available
  • 9 core sociology courses
  • 31.5 quarter units of electives
  • Qualitative research methods training
  • Digital literacy skills development
  • Flexible scheduling options
  • WASC accredited program
  • $10,700 - $16,000 (Undergraduate)
*Original data: IPEDS 2023, NCES, U.S. Department of Education.

List of California Online Sociology Associate Degrees

If you want to study sociology in California from home, this list of online associate degrees can help you get started. These programs let you learn about society and human behavior without going to a campus, which is great for busy people. Online education makes it easy to fit school into your life, offering flexible distance learning and remote options. Below, you will find a table with schools, their locations, program highlights, and links to learn more.
Jump to City:

Palm Desert, CA

College of the Desert

  • Associate - Associate in Arts in Sociology for Transfer

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 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

San Diego, CA

San Diego Miramar College

  • Associate - Sociology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 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

Santa Ana, CA

Santa Ana College

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

    Online Learning - Website

    • 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
*Data obtained from: IPEDS 2023 survey (NCES).

List of California Online Sociology Bachelor's Degrees

If you're looking to earn a sociology bachelor's degree online in California, this list can help you find the right program. Online programs make it easier for busy people to study from anywhere, which is especially important for those balancing work or family. You can explore options through distance learning and virtual classes. Below is a table of schools with their locations, program highlights, and links to learn more.
Jump to City:

Bakersfield, CA

California State University-Bakersfield

  • Bachelor's - Sociology, BA

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online learning.
    • Affordable tuition.
    • Diverse career opportunities.

Chico, CA

California State University-Chico

  • Bachelor's - BA in Sociology

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online learning format.
    • Diverse, award-winning faculty.
    • Prepares for impactful careers.

Fullerton, CA

California State University-Fullerton

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online degree completion.
    • Taught by experienced CSUF faculty.
    • Prepares for diverse career paths.

Hayward, CA

California State University-East Bay

  • Bachelor's - Sociology, B.A. (Online Degree Completion)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online degree completion program.
    • Prepares for careers in social services, counseling, and education.
    • Offers a wide range of elective courses.

Riverside, CA

California Baptist University

  • Bachelor's - Sociology, BA (Online)

    Online Learning - Website

    • Flexible online classes start every 8 weeks.
    • Cost: $520 per unit plus applicable fees.
    • Six start dates annually for rolling admissions.

San Diego, CA

National University

  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • 4-week online classes
    • Year-round enrollment available
    • 9 core sociology courses
    • 31.5 quarter units of electives
    • Qualitative research methods training
    • Digital literacy skills development
    • Flexible scheduling options
    • WASC accredited program
  • Bachelor's - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

    Online Learning - Website

    • 4-week online classes
    • Year-round enrollment
    • Flexible scheduling options
    • Qualitative research training
    • Digital literacy focus
    • Diverse career preparation
    • Nine core sociology courses
    • Seven upper-division electives

San Marcos, CA

California State University-San Marcos

  • Bachelor's - Accelerated Bachelor of Arts in Sociology

    Online Learning - Website

    • Fully online accelerated sociology degree
    • Designed for working professionals
    • Comprehensive social research curriculum

Seaside, CA

California State University-Monterey Bay

  • Bachelor's - Sociology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Flexible, customizable curriculum tailored to personal interests.
    • Comprehensive research skills development.
    • Senior capstone project enables original research exploration.
*NCES IPEDS database, 2023 release. Available at: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/

List of California Online Sociology Master's Degrees

If you are looking to earn a sociology master's degree in California from the comfort of your home, you have several excellent online options. These programs offer flexibility for working professionals and students with busy schedules, making it easier to advance your education. Distance learning and remote access allow you to study from anywhere. Below is a table of schools with their locations, program highlights, and links to learn more.
Jump to City:

Los Angeles, CA

California State University-Los Angeles

  • Master's - Master of Arts in Sociology

    Online & Campus Based - Website

    • Flexible three-option culminating experience pathway
    • Advanced research methods and statistical training
    • Prepares for doctoral, teaching, and professional careers
*Official data: NCES IPEDS 2023 dataset. https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/


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