Bachelor of Arts Major in Sociology

At a glance

  • Credential: degree
  • Credits: 90 or 120
  • Next start: monthly

Our online Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major isn't just about understanding society—it's about equipping you with the tools to enact change.

  • 35

    Average age

  • 89%

    Employment rate

  • $65k

    Median income

  • 95%

    Student satisfaction

Source: 2023 AU institutional data and 2022 Graduate Outcomes Survey (GOS)

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About Bachelor of Arts Major in Sociology

Sociology helps you both understand and change the world you live in. The study of sociology links together the social, economic, political, cultural, and ecological aspects of a changing global society.

Sociological theory and research are used in applied areas of study like:

  • crime and deviance
  • family and gender studies
  • environmental and health issues
  • agriculture and food
  • technology and the information society
  • race and ethnic relations
  • organizations and bureaucracies

Through a diverse range of courses, you'll explore everything from sociological theories to real-world applications in areas like crime, healthcare, and even technology. This program does more than deepen your understanding of societal issues; it prepares you for a multitude of career paths in fields like education, social work, and urban planning, so you can turn your knowledge into action.

Admission requirements

There are no formal admission requirements for either the 3-year or the 4-year program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.

Program details

Overview

Sociology helps us understand human spirituality, social class, inequality, and the impact of poverty on the individual, family, and society. Topics in Athabasca University’s online sociology program include:

  • power
  • inequality
  • racism
  • the family
  • aging
  • crime
  • deviance
  • globalization
  • social movements
  • technology / information technology
  • religion/spirituality

As a sociology student, you will also develop a greater appreciation and understanding of non-western, non-capitalist world views and social practices.

Routes and options

The Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major is an online degree program, with both a 3-year and a 4-year option. There are no set start dates – you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.

Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Concentration (3-year online degree)

  • A 3-year degree is a well-respected and marketable credential in Canada and the United States.
  • It does not provide direct access to graduate-level studies.
  • You can extend your 3-year degree to a 4-year degree at a later date, if you wish. Learn more about degree conversion.

Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Major (4-year online degree)

  • A 4-year degree fully prepares students for most graduate programs.
  • The 4-year BA program allows you to pursue either a double major or a minor.
    • Double majors must meet the requirements for both majors, which may restrict course selection or require additional credits above the 120 required for the BA.
    • You should talk to an academic advisor about your program and courses if you’re considering a double major.
    • To earn a minor you must complete 30 credits in that subject area.
  • List of minors:
    • Anthropology
    • Canadian Studies
    • English
    • French
    • Global Studies
    • History
    • Humanities
    • Inclusive Education
    • Labour Studies
    • Philosophy
    • Political Economy
    • Political Science
    • Psychology
    • Public Administration
    • Women's and Gender Studies
Note: AU does not offer an Honours BA.

Completion times

Finish the concentration option in 3 years of full-time study, the major option in 4 years, or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.

How to apply

You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.

How to enrol in an undergraduate program

Transfer and advanced credit

If you have previous post-secondary education or significant life and work experience that relates to this program, you may be eligible for transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR). This could mean fewer courses to get your AU degree.

If you transfer credit, you must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU.

Learn about transfer and advanced credit at AU

Request and send your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.

Learn more about MyCreds

Resources and links

Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.


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