Most Popular Social Science Degrees Online
Our list of the most popular online degrees in social science highlights accredited schools ranked by the number of students graduating with this major.
Key Takeaways:
- At #1, Arizona State University Online boasts 911 graduates from its online Bachelor of Science in Social and Behavioral Sciences program. ASU also maintains one of the largest online learning communities in the U.S., supporting more than 80,000 distance learners across disciplines.
- Southern New Hampshire University Online has the most online students at the undergraduate level overall, with over 154,000.
Read our methodology for details on data sources, eligibility, and quality controls.
Most Popular Social Science Degrees Online
| Rank | School | Graduates | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University, Online | 911 | $32,193 | $54,668 | 93% | |
| Portland State University | 275 | $19,380 | $49,355 | 91% | |
| Washington State University | 233 | $13,021 | $59,442 | 87% | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | 190 | $9,900 | $57,763 | 69% | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | 168 | $14,970 | $53,628 | 71% | |
| Franklin University | 100 | $11,940 | N/A | 85% | |
| Thomas Edison State University | 88 | $8,856 | $62,477 | 65% | |
| University of Washington - Seattle | 73 | $41,997 | $68,614 | 92% | |
| University of Southern Maine | 59 | $10,290 | $42,725 | 91% | |
| Kansas State University | 56 | $12,143 | $50,046 | 96% | |
| Central Washington University | 50 | $25,340 | $60,508 | 90% | |
| New York University | 50 | $37,128 | $75,496 | 96% | |
| University of Central Florida | 26 | $18,481 | N/A | 94% | |
| SUNY Empire State University | 22 | $8,480 | N/A | 64% | |
| California State University - San Bernardino | 19 | $19,555 | $52,724 | 99% |
A Closer Look at The Most Popular Online Social Science Degrees
Our latest ranking of the most popular online bachelor’s degrees in social science is grounded in clear, measurable data — the number of students who actually graduate with a social sciences degree. Each of the 15 schools we listed above has an online social science program that demonstrated strong student demand, but the scale varies dramatically — from Arizona State University’s remarkable 911 graduates down to California State University's 19 graduates in the social sciences.
Graduates of these programs also report median earnings in the mid-$50,000s to mid-$60,000s, with standouts such as the University of Washington and New York University exceeding $68,000 and $75,000, respectively. Such salary outcomes among social science majors place these degrees in a competitive range among liberal arts majors, showing that strong analytical and communication skills remain economically viable (despite common opinion).
What’s perhaps most reassuring is that these popularity and outcome metrics intersect with high satisfaction. Across our list, the average student recommendation rate exceeds 88%, based on data from more than 90,000 verified student surveys collected across our network.
Below, we want to dig into the details a bit more to help make your decision clear regarding which social science program is the right fit for you.
Why Popularity Is Helpful To Know: Trust, Infrastructure, and Momentum
Popularity in online education equates to reliability. In other words, when hundreds of students successfully complete a social sciences program each year, it signals that the institution has figured out how to support learners (including distance learners) at scale.
In the social sciences, large program sizes allow for more diverse peer interaction, which is invaluable in a field defined by cultural and social analysis.
Take Arizona State University, for instance. Its 911 graduates and 52,896 online students at the undergraduate level tell us that ASU has a mature digital ecosystem that can deliver consistent quality and support across thousands of students.
Similarly, Portland State University and Washington State University, both with several hundred graduates, reflect the stability of large public systems adapting effectively to online learning.
In short, a high graduate count can reassure you that many before you have found both the program and the platform workable and have succeeded on the same path.
The Trust Signal: Our Database of Student Recommendation Rates
Our rankings draw from one of the largest verified datasets of student feedback — over 90,000 student surveys collected across U.S. institutions. These numbers provide human insight from those who have been there.
Take Kansas State University, where 96% of students said they’d recommend their experience. Students are more likely to recommend a university when advising, communication, and instructional design work in harmony. At California State University - San Bernardino, that recommendation rate soars to 99%, one of the highest across any OnlineU ranking. Paired with its small cohort and accelerated seven-week terms, it suggests students feel genuinely supported despite the program’s compressed pace.
Across the board, these figures highlight how positive student experience grows from reliable online platforms, responsive instructors, and academic coherence that keeps learners engaged in the material.
How Social Science Graduates Stack Up in Earnings
Keep in mind that our median salary data is for graduates of social science degrees at these school, just four years after graduation.
While social science isn’t always associated with sky-high salaries, the programs on this list reveal a more nuanced take. Graduates from the University of Washington report median earnings near $68,000, placing them in the top 18% nationally in this field. Thomas Edison State University and Central Washington University follow closely, each exceeding $60,000.
These figures challenge the misconception that social science degrees don’t yield financial return. They demonstrate that applied skills, like research design, policy evaluation, data interpretation, can translate into roles in public service, HR, consulting, and community development with solid earning potential.
Where a Social Science Degree Can Take You
One of the most striking takeaways from the is how broadly employable social science graduates are. More than 5.2 million Americans work in roles tied to this field, earning a median annual wage of $75,000 — a full $5,000 above the average for all bachelor’s degree holders.
That salary spread does not reflect a single, uniform career path, but a tapestry of professional directions: lawyers, managers, educators, policy analysts, and even software developers. The data shows, for example, that 8% of social science graduates go on to law, 6% move into management, and another share thrive in data-driven and analytical occupations like financial management and consulting. This mix reveals something powerful about social science, which is that it teaches you how to understand systems, whether they’re social, political, or organizational.
Some examples:
Programs like Arizona State University’s BS in Social and Behavioral Sciences embody this adaptability. Its emphasis on both qualitative and quantitative research methods gives students the analytical fluency that management and policy roles demand — the same kind of skillset that powers management analysts, one of the BLS’s fastest-growing occupations for social science majors.
Portland State University’s online social science degree, part of Portland’s civic and innovation ecosystem, helps students build real-world experience in public service and community engagement. It's this kind of foundation that leads to leadership roles in nonprofits or urban policy.
So, whether you’re building social impact programs, analyzing market behavior, teaching, managing teams, or preparing for graduate study in law or policy, the same fundamental skills apply: understanding people, interpreting data, and turning insight into action.
Expert Advice for Succeeding in Social and Behavioral Sciences
Clinic Director
"Online programs excel at teaching documentation and ethical decision-making through case study analysis. These skills are gold in the field. Every day I use the systematic thinking patterns I learned early on, whether I'm writing treatment plans or navigating complex trauma cases with my Calgary clients.
My biggest career advice: start working in the field immediately, even part-time.
I learned more about human resilience in my first year working with communities than in any classroom. That hands-on experience became my strongest selling point when applying for advanced positions and building my private practice."
EXPERT TIP
"Focus on schools that recognize community-based learning and offer credit for prior experience — this saved me nearly a semester when pursuing additional certifications."
FAQs About Social Science Degrees
Is a Social Science Degree Worth It?
A social science degree can be worth it for individuals interested in understanding human behavior, societal issues, and cultural dynamics. Social science graduates can pursue fulfilling careers in various fields, including social work, research, policy analysis, and human resources. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) page for social science can be a useful starting point to research employability for social science graduates.
Pursuing an online bachelor's degree in social science can teach you about human behavior, societies, and cultures. The diverse range of disciplines within social science means there are numerous career opportunities, as we discuss in detail in our analysis above.
Whether you choose to enter the workforce immediately or continue your education at the graduate level, a social science degree equips you with valuable skills and knowledge.
Is a Social Science Degree Hard?
The level of difficulty can vary depending on the specific courses and your personal strengths. Social science programs require critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to analyze complex issues. You can successfully navigate and excel in a social science degree program if you're disciplined, use effective study strategies, and reach out for support from faculty and peers.
What Can I Do With a Social Science Degree?
A social science degree might open doors to a range of occupations. Graduates can find employment in fields such as social services, market research, human resources, community outreach, policy analysis, education, and public relations. The skills acquired in a social science program make graduates adaptable and valuable in many industries.
In a nutshell, you have several paths to consider once you earn a bachelor's degree in social science. The two main choices are to continue your education by pursuing a graduate degree or entering the workforce directly.
Further Education
A graduate degree in social science can provide advanced training and specialization in a specific discipline or subfield. After a bachelor's degree, you might consider a master's degree or doctorate.
- Master's Degrees in Social Science: Social science master's degree programs typically offer advanced coursework, research opportunities, and sometimes internships. Graduates with a master's degree may be eligible for higher-level positions in their chosen field or pursue doctoral programs for even more advanced research and academic opportunities.
- Doctoral Degrees in Social Science: Doctoral programs in social science are geared toward people who want to conduct original research, contribute to the field's body of knowledge, and potentially pursue academic careers. These programs typically require students to complete extensive research projects and defend a doctoral dissertation of several hundred pages in length. Doctoral degree holders often work as university professors, researchers, or policy analysts.
See our lists of the best online master's in political science and best online master's in history degrees for program ideas.
Social Science Careers
A bachelor's degree in social science equips graduates with a diverse skill set that can be applied to various career paths. The ability to analyze complex social issues, understand human behavior, and communicate effectively are valuable skills in many industries.
For those reasons, you can embark on many careers with a social science degree. A few popular roles include market researcher, human resources specialist, policy analyst, public relations specialist, and social and community service manager.
What Is a Social Science Degree?
A social science degree explores human societies, cultures, and behaviors, encompassing disciplines such as sociology, psychology, and anthropology. These programs incorporate real-world applications into the curriculum, equipping graduates with critical thinking and analytical skills for diverse career paths.
Pursuing an online bachelor's degree in social science can open doors to a range of career opportunities. You'll explore the complexities of human interactions and societies in a social science bachelor's degree program, which is ideal if you're passionate about understanding human behavior and cultures.
Social science encompasses a range of subjects. Some of the prominent social science disciplines include the following:
Each discipline has a different focus. For example, sociologists study social interactions and institutions, anthropology focuses on human cultures and societies, and psychology explores human minds and behavior.
About 8% of bachelor's degrees conferred in 2020 were in social science, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This demonstrates the relevance and popularity of social science programs.
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Social Science?
Prospective students must meet specific admission requirements to pursue an online bachelor's degree in social science. Typical criteria include a minimum 2.5 GPA on high school transcripts, a letter of recommendation from a teacher, a personal statement highlighting your education and career goals, and official ACT or SAT scores (though some schools have dropped entrance exam requirements). These requirements vary from one institution to another, so it's important to check the specific requirements of each school you're applying to.
Social science bachelor's degree programs usually require 120 credit hours of courses, which can last as little as four years but often take longer to finish. Programs often consist of core courses, elective courses, and either an internship or capstone project. These components ensure that students gain a comprehensive understanding of the social sciences while applying their knowledge in real-world contexts. Internships can grant valuable hands-on experience in the field, while capstone projects allow students to showcase their mastery of the subject matter through research.
Be sure to read our if you decide to apply for an online degree in social science.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Social Science Program?
In an online social science bachelor's degree program, you'll likely take a variety of courses that give a solid foundation in a specific discipline. The curriculum will differ depending on your specific major, but below are four common courses that you might encounter:
- Introduction to Sociology: This course introduces students to the fundamental concepts and theories of sociology. You'll typically explore topics such as social structures, inequality, culture, public policy, and social change.
- Principles of Psychology: The basic principles and theories of psychology are this class's subject. Professors usually cover human development, cognition, individual behavior in different social contexts, and psychological disorders.
- Global Perspectives in Anthropology: This course examines the diversity of human cultures and societies worldwide. You might read and discuss issues such as cultural relativism, kinship, religion, and the impact of globalization on human groups.
- Research Methods in Social Sciences: Research methods faculty members equip students with the essential skills needed to conduct research in the social sciences, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation abilities.
Why Is Accreditation Important When Choosing an Online Social Science Degree Program?
It's crucial to choose an accredited institution when considering online social science degree programs. Institutional accreditation ensures that the school meets certain quality standards and that the education you receive is recognized and respected by employers and other institutions. You can find a college's accreditation status using the U.S. Department of Education's searchable .
You may also come across programmatic accreditation agencies specific to social science programs. These agencies evaluate and accredit programs within specific disciplines to make sure they meet established standards. Graduating from a programmatically accredited program isn't always required to land a job, but it certainly can't hurt.
Student Reviews of Online Social Sciences Programs
In working a full-time position in a non-profit organization, I was able to complete my studies without any feelings of being overwhelmed. Yes the assignments were a challange looking at the syllabus, but once you have devised your study pattern that worked for you, I found it was managable. I think you as a student need to have the determination to take on the task of continuing your education. Yes the tuition fees are higher than some other tuitions you as a person need to be able to make that... Read More
Review Date: 1/6/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
When the name changed, from ashford university to university of arizona global campus, I thought it was kind of weird, but I still kept pushing for my degree. Then in Feb of 2022, I seen a news article, ASHFORD UNIVERSITY and navient (their loan provider) where both sues for misrepresentation, and lying about the cost of.classes and how much financial aid we was getting, Go figure. This school, no matter the name change will always be known as the school that scammed their students, and any degree... Read More
Review Date: 4/19/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Due to obligations arising from military service, post military career, and life in general, I have attended 7 different institutions in the pursuit of my BS. I can honestly say that at excelsior you will have to put in the work as it’s no cake walk. They definitely make up for not having physical class by having you do more work. That aside, I can honestly say this is the first and only institution that I have attended where I can say I have learned things and taken away skills. Each institution... Read More
Review Date: 10/10/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The experience I had with Purdue Global is worth sharing. The Professors treat students like family members, they are ready to help every student at every step. The reading materials are easy to read. The library is my "friend" and very easy to navigate.
Review Date: 5/27/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Great school, especially for veterans. I would recommend to anyone. This place is perfect for adults looking to finish their degree. They give the maximum when it comes to transfer credits. If you have gone to a couple of different colleges this is the school for you.
Review Date: 2/4/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I loved everything about Ashford University! I was really nervous to be going back to school after taking an eighteen-year hiatus to raise my daughter. I was also working part-time and didn't know if I'd be able to manage it all. As it turns out, I excelled! I ended up graduating Summa Cum Laude in English and in Cultural Anthropology. I finished two bachelor's degrees in just four years! The teachers were great. The classwork was challenging. I loved the flexibility of the online format. I was a... Read More
Review Date: 9/30/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I completed my degree using the GI Bill and didnt have any issues. I managed my time and got every thing submitted. If youre a procrastinator then online school isnt for you. I would get my masters there but they dont have the degree I want. Some professors are better then others, as in all schools.
Review Date: 4/2/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is my second class with WEST. So far, so good. The tuition is pretty reasonable at 250 a credit. That is half of what UOP charges. I like the fact that we are only required to post one day a week. I enjoy the video lectures and I enjoy the 3 live sessions we have during the course of the 8 weeks. Also I am glad there aren't ang text books to pay for. They give you the ebook for free. I just hope my credits will transfer when I go for a masters program. The school is regionally accredited
Review Date: 3/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
After taking a 2 year break from a private school in Ohio, I decided I needed to return to school to finish my degree. I transferred to UMUC and had the best experience I couldve imagined. From the application, to registering, all the way through graduation I had great interactions with all of the professors, staff, admin, and other students. Taking the online courses gave me the courage to be the student I wanted to be and speak and sound the way I want to be heard. You will see throughout these... Read More
Review Date: 7/9/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
First off, I am a National Guard veteran. When I spoke with an advisor, they took this into consideration and were very excited to tell me about their veteran discounts and what they have to offer. I have taken 6 courses so far and I have noticed a lot of my classmates are also veterans or currently in the military. I started with Ashford in the beginning of summer 2014. So far my cons I have with the school are: 1. They first told me I had all the paperwork, and then they told me there was missing... Read More
Review Date: 1/12/2015
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Because of my work schedule the Distance Learning / Self-paced program was a great fit for me. Instructors ranged from incredible to disengaged which has been my experience with virtually every work group I've encountered in my life so there is no surprise there. I never had difficulty reaching anyone at the college either by phone or email. The courses were generally challenging. The support staff was extremely helpful. I would recommend the school in a heartbeat. I can't speak to financial issues... Read More
Review Date: 9/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UMA has a large number of degree options available. They also have a wide variety of class availability methods such as live class, online classes, and video conferencing. The instructors are very competent, though in my degree, there are a few instructors who teach a large number of classes iyour style doesn't mesh with theirs you are pretty much stuck.
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Brandman University provided me with the tools and knowledge that I need for my future endeavors in the social services field. The classes were available online and allowed me to complete my work within my schedule. Specifically, the instructors were knowledgeable and helpful when I had any difficulties and provided separate hours for any assistance I needed outside of the online classroom. My only complaint about the University is that my advisor relocated during my completion of my degree and was... Read More
Review Date: 5/2/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great school, challenging and rewarding experience. I got a raise at work and I'm pursuing a MSN with them. Their mentors are excellent as long as you reach out to them. The writing center of excellence is a great resource. Your writing mentors have PHDs and publish books; beyond my expectations. It saved me a lot of money and I make as such as my colleagues who went to traditional schools and now owe over 50,000.00$
Review Date: 7/14/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I was really satisfied with my education at Ashford University. I was very nervous about going back to school at my age at the time I enrolled and worried about if I was going to be able to follow through. The enrollment counselors were very helpful and once I started taking classes I knew I had made the right choice in schools. The classes and instructors were above what I expected. The structure of the classes and when assignments were due made it very easy for me to study at my own pace while... Read More
Review Date: 2/15/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Utah State University was a great school and their online program for a degree in Family Life Studies was educational and convenient. It was nice to be able to take all the necessary classes online since I was not near the campus and couldn't uproot my family to continue my education. The professors at USU were great to work with and were very quick to respond to any questions or concerns I had. Also the advisors were very educated and there to help make sure you had the information you needed.
Review Date: 7/25/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I attended CSU-Global part time from 2012 to 2016. I took a total of 19 classes and I had a wonderful experience with each class and instructor. The staff and well as the faculty is friendly and helpful. If you're looking for a quality online school try CSU-Global. The programs are designed for adults with full time jobs and families. You can complete your degree and still be a mom/dad.
Review Date: 9/5/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a former student of Ashford University and I am so happy that I chose this school to get a degree from. I am 56 years old and when I set out to obtain a degree it was my goal to graduate by the age of 55 and I did it. I worked full-time, had two back surgeries and five deaths in my family and I still graduated with honors. This school is for those people that are self-disciplined and dedicated to working hard in order to achieve their goals. If you do not have these characteristics you may want... Read More
Review Date: 1/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am a current student at the University of Phoenix online. U of P is a fully accredited college. It is an ideal school for me because I can do my work when I have the time as long as I stay disciplined. I had pre-conceived notions about this being a very easy way to go to school, but it is actually very challenging. There is a lot of work involved and the subject matter can be very dense at times. I love being a student at U of P. The only drawback to their programming is that in every course you... Read More
Review Date: 2/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I competed the first 3/4 of my degree at the brick and mortar college at Colorado State University Pueblo. Currently I am completing the last 3 courses of my degree program. Having attended both the B&M University and Global University I would rate them as being even as far as academic rigor is concerned. This was my first experience with online learning and I must say that CSU Global surpassed my expectations. I am an adult learner who expects to be challenged and CSU Global did not disappoint!... Read More
Review Date: 9/28/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No