MA in sociology
Explore the science of human interaction at Arizona State University.
Many of the world’s most pressing challenges require a deep understanding of social systems and human relationships.
The online master’s program is a flexible degree option with access to a rigorous sociology curriculum and customized experiences based on your area of interest.
Gain the skills you need to address challenges at every level, from family units to national policies.
Accessible, high-impact programs and coursework
Completing your master’s degree online at Arizona State University will prepare you with the practical and research skills necessary to support individual and community well-being. Guided by faculty, students in the program gain hands-on field experience and prepare for the next steps to their careers.
Advance your skills in leadership, research and advocacy, and increase your understanding of societal structures and group behavior.
Develop an understanding of how social context influences well-being and the factors that promote successful relationships and positive outcomes.
Graduate prepared to make a positive impact in education, social work, mental health, human resources, public policy, nonprofit leadership and more.
Hear from program graduates.
“As I built my career, I realized that what I wanted was the deeper knowledge and the capacity to speak from a theoretical and practical place about why the social conditions that we deal with in this country exist. And then, therefore, be able to really effectively create programs that address those inequities. … A lot of what I learned through the program has positioned Monarch School as a subject-matter expert and capable of assisting legislators and other powerbrokers in understanding social conditions differently.”
Afira D.
Program graduate
CEO, Monarch School
“There are so many different aspects of how we interact with each other. And I think that, especially in the work that I do, looking at all of the different dynamics and perspectives is where having that education in sociology really helps.”
Linda S.
Program graduate
Executive director, The STAR Project
“I knew that getting a master's in sociology would be the right fit for me when I began to problem-solve for what student veterans needed at ASU. Having a degree like this allows me to ask the right questions and gain the right data to make a positive impact on our military-affiliated population.”
Shawn B.
Program graduate
Executive director, Pat Tillman Veterans Center
Career possibilities
Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared for roles across social services, education, government, nonprofits and community organizations. This degree supports careers focused on translating research into practice, strengthening communities and addressing complex social challenges. Graduates often pursue work that improves systems, services and policy. Potential career paths include, but aren’t limited to:
Public policy strategist
Social impact leader
Community program director
Equity and access consultant
Education policy specialist
Criminal justice reform specialist
Behavioral research analyst
Social program designer
Advocacy director
Human rights advocate
Crisis intervention center employee
Nonprofit leader
HR professional
Government agency employee
Community outreach coordinator
Ready to learn more?
Find degree information and application timelines that work for your schedule. Flexible options include start dates in fall, spring and summer.
If you have questions about the MA in sociology program or the next steps for applying, please feel free to email us at [email protected].