School of Social Sciences · Bachelor of Arts

Bachelor’s in Sociology

Apply NowVisit Campus
Program Overview

Analyzing Human Behavior and Relationships

Maryville University’s Bachelor of Arts in Sociology helps students understand the sociological principles that shape human relationships and complex societies. Students can connect their sociology studies with areas such as healthcare, criminology, government and education.

What sets the program apart

    • Study the social principles, institutions and issues that influence individuals and communities.
    • Connect sociology coursework with interests in healthcare, criminology, government or education.
    • Complete a required 150-hour practicum with professional supervision at a local organization.
    • Explore accelerated graduate pathways in rehabilitation counseling and social work.

An Overview of Sociology at Maryville

 
[MUSIC PLAYING] KENT BAUSMAN: Sociology is a very broad-based form of analysis, an analysis of society, the world in which we're a part of. If you're a person that is interested in things like psychology and history, anthropology, and economics or geography, but you're interested in all of these things collectively rather than one of them individually, this is where sociology is, I think, really beneficial, because sociology draws on all those different disciplines to examine various social phenomena. One of the things I think that's unique to the Maryville course of study in sociology is rather than you just simply taking coursework and learning the ideas and theories, you learn that, but then we have this sequence where you get to do your own research question related to sociology. You get to formulate a research question, collect data related to that question, analyze that question, and then formulate a written report of that sociological question. So you really gain a hands-on sociological skill there. What sociology forces students to do is to look at issues from a variety of perspectives. It requires you to get out of your comfort zone and see things from the perspective of someone else. These are incredibly valuable skills that are required and demanded in the marketplace. If you want to learn more about sociology and the sociological offerings here at Maryville University, feel free to schedule a tour with us.
Why Maryville

Why Choose Sociology at Maryville?

Class Size14

Average Class Size

SupportLife Coaching Team

A dedicated team of life coaches helps you personalize your education

Career Outcomes98%

Career outcomes rate for Maryville graduates

Financial Aid$59M+

Awarded in scholarships and aid last year

Get Started

Ready to apply or want to visit campus?

We've made it easy: free transcript evaluation, quick admission decisions, and no application fee.

  • Upcoming term starts:
  • Fall 2026 Start Date: August 24
  • Spring 2027 Start Date: January 11
Apply nowSchedule a campus visit
Career Outlook

What can I do with this degree?

A sociology degree can help students develop skills in research, analysis, communication and understanding social systems. Graduates may pursue opportunities in social services, criminal justice, corrections, government, healthcare, research and related fields.

The degree may also provide preparation for graduate study in sociology, social work, counseling, law, public policy and other disciplines. Some occupations, including sociologist, counselor, social worker and attorney, require additional graduate education, certification or licensure.

Career Paths

Social and community service managers coordinate programs and organizations that support public well-being. These positions may require relevant professional experience in addition to a bachelor’s degree.
Community outreach coordinators connect organizations with the populations they serve by developing programs, building partnerships and communicating available services.
Survey researchers design surveys, collect information and analyze data about people’s opinions, behaviors and experiences. Some entry-level positions accept a bachelor’s degree, while many roles require graduate education.
Policy analysts research social issues, evaluate programs and policies, interpret data and communicate findings to government agencies, nonprofit organizations or other stakeholders.
Probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work with people in the criminal justice system, evaluate progress and connect individuals with rehabilitation and community resources. Additional agency requirements may apply.
Human resources specialists support recruiting, employee relations, training and workplace policies while applying an understanding of people, organizations and group behavior.
$78,240Median Annual Salary

The median annual wage for social and community service managers was $78,240 in May 2024.

18,600Annual Job Openings

About 18,600 openings for social and community service managers are projected each year, on average, from 2024–2034.

6%Projected Job Growth

Employment is projected to grow 6% from 2024–2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook. Career statistics represent a related occupation that reflects common career paths for graduates of this program. Actual outcomes vary based on employer, location, experience, education, licensure and specialization.

Admission Requirements, Curriculum & Courses

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements Discover requirements for a freshman, transfer, or international student.Course Descriptions Explore our catalog for details about the course requirements and electives.Degree Planning Sheet A sample plan of study

Earn Your Sociology Degree Online

Prefer the flexibility of online learning? Maryville also offers an online bachelor's degree in sociology that prepares students to examine social systems, human behavior and contemporary social issues while developing analytical, communication and research skills for a variety of careers.

View the online degree information

Want to learn more about our course offerings?

Detailed course descriptions and prerequisites are listed in our catalog.

Read full course descriptionsExplore the full catalog
Tuition, Cost & Savings

How you can afford an education.

An investment in your future shouldn't be out of reach. Maryville offers multiple paths to reduce your out-of-pocket cost — and our team will help you find every one you qualify for.

Ways to Save

Scholarship OpportunitiesMerit and need-based awards for qualifying students.
Transfer CreditApply previously earned credits toward your degree.
Benefits for MilitaryTuition assistance and GI Bill benefits for those who served.

Estimated tuition cost breakdown

Full-Time Tuition$25,766
Fees*$2,600
Estimated total cost**$28,366

*Fees can include digital course materials and textbooks/lab materials.

**Estimated cost does not include room and board or meal plans.

Explore additional tuition and costs

Need help financing your education? Get in touch!

Our financial aid advisors are here to walk you through scholarships, grants, and aid options for the Sociology program.

Financial Aid InformationContact the Financial Aid Office
Accreditation

Maryville is accredited.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Honors & Rankings

  • Kiplinger Best College Values 2019Ranked among the best values in private colleges by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
  • Forbes America's Top Colleges 2018Ranked among “America's Top Colleges” by Forbes.
  • Ranked No. 1 in social mobility among private universities in St. Louis.
  • Best for Vets Colleges 2022 Military Times. We made the list!Named Best for Vets among colleges by Military Times.
Review Maryville's full list of honors and rankings
Take the Next Step

Ready to take the next step?

Apply today, request more information, or schedule a visit to see if Maryville is the right fit for you.

Apply nowRequest more informationSchedule a campus visit

Frequently Asked Questions

Students study the sociological principles that influence human relationships, institutions and society while examining contemporary social issues and concerns.
Yes. The program page highlights opportunities to combine sociology coursework with interests in healthcare, criminology, government or education.
Yes. Sociology majors complete a required practicum that provides 150 hours of real-world experience with professional supervision at a local organization.
The page describes graduate bridges with Maryville’s master’s program in rehabilitation counseling and Saint Louis University’s master’s program in social work. These pathways allow qualifying students to begin graduate coursework while completing undergraduate degree requirements.
A sociology degree can support opportunities in social services, corrections, criminal justice, healthcare, government, research and related areas. Specific requirements vary, and some professions require graduate education, certification or licensure.
Yes. Maryville states that the sociology degree can prepare students for graduate study in a variety of disciplines. Admission requirements and transferable graduate credits depend on the institution and program