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2025 Most Affordable Online Sociology Master's Degrees

Written by OnlineU Writers • Edited by Bailey Fletcher • Updated 6/4/2025

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An affordable master’s in sociology online can help you build expertise in social theory, research design, and the analysis of complex societal issues. Below our list, we interview a professional in the field about how a sociology's master's can help you address systemic challenges in public policy, community health, and organizational leadership.

Key Takeaways:

  • American Public University System ranks #1 for affordability, offering its online master’s in sociology for just $6,825. 
  • Sam Houston State University stands out with a 97% recommendation rate, along with strong graduate earnings at $57,408.

All tuition figures are manually verified and reflect fully online sociology master's programs from accredited schools. Read more in our methodology

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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All tuition numbers were manually collected and verified
Rank School Location Annual Tuition
# 1 #1 American Public University System Charles Town (WV) $6,825
# 2 #2 New Mexico State University Las Cruces (NM) $7,999
# 3 #3 Morehead State University Morehead (KY) $8,550
# 4 #4 University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham (AL) $8,580
# 5 #5 University of North Dakota Grand Forks (ND) $8,829
# 6 #6 Texas Woman's University Denton (TX) $10,845
# 7 #7 Sam Houston State University Huntsville (TX) $10,953
# 8 #8 South Dakota State University Brookings (SD) $10,980
# 9 #9 Fayetteville State University Fayetteville (NC) $12,086
# 10 #10 Emporia State University Emporia (KS) $12,889
# 11 #11 Arizona State University, Online Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) $14,520
# 12 #12 Virginia Commonwealth University Richmond (VA) $15,000
# 13 #13 Troy University Troy (AL) $17,812

What the Data Reveals About Affordable Sociology Master's Degrees Online

With tuition rates for graduate school continuing to climb, the search for a high-quality, low-cost master’s degree in sociology has become a priority for many students balancing budgets with career goals. That’s why we analyzed 13 standout online sociology master’s programs, where the median yearly tuition is just under $11,000, a figure far below the national average for graduate tuition, which hovers around $20,000 at public universities and much higher at private ones. 



These sociology programs are not only affordable, with tuition as low as $6,825, but also offer verified student satisfaction, high retention, and real-world relevance. 


We understand that choosing the right graduate program can be challenging, so we’ve broken down what makes each of these schools and degrees unique — backed by data — to help you make the most informed decision possible.

Standout Sociology Schools for Affordability

Affordability plays a critical role for sociology master’s students, often more so than in other graduate fields, because many of the career paths associated with sociology, such as social work, community advocacy, public policy, and nonprofit leadership, aren’t known for high starting salaries. Students entering these professions tend to be driven by purpose and impact instead of financial gain, which makes minimizing costs a practical necessity.

At the top of the list, American Public University System (APUS) offers a master’s in sociology for just $6,825 per year over the course of two years. This is a remarkably low price for any graduate program, especially one with 1:1 faculty mentoring and monthly start dates. 

But APUS isn’t alone. New Mexico State University and Morehead State University follow closely with sub-$8,600 tuition, each offering distinct advantages. NMSU, for instance, promotes small class sizes and faculty-led research opportunities. Morehead State adds rare concentration options to a sociology master's, including Criminology, which expands career alignment for those aiming at federal or corrections-related roles.

These programs prove that low tuition doesn’t mean lower standards. On the contrary, their affordability often accompanies a well-structured, professionally driven curriculum.

While most of the online sociology master’s degrees in our chart assume a traditional two-year completion timeline, it’s important to highlight a few exceptions:

Emporia State University (ESU) offers an accelerated one-year program, which means the yearly tuition of $12,889 is also the total cost for most students. This shorter timeframe can significantly reduce both tuition and opportunity costs, especially for those looking to reenter the workforce or pivot careers quickly.

Arizona State University Online (ASU Online), although not listed in the top 10 cheapest, offers a 15- to 18-month program. When comparing costs, prospective students should consider this shorter timeline, as it reduces the total tuition investment (roughly 1.25 years’ worth) and gets you into the job market faster.

Why Accelerated Programs Matter for Sociology Students

For sociology students, an accelerated online program can be a strategic advantage. As I've said, many career paths in sociology, such as public policy, nonprofit leadership, or social research, offer meaningful work but modest salaries. So, reducing both tuition costs and time away from work is a financially smart call. 

Finishing your degree in 12 to 18 months allows you to apply for promotions, shift into new roles, or begin doctoral studies sooner. And for career changers or those already working in adjacent fields, a fast-track program minimizes disruption while still building key skills in data analysis, policy, and community impact.

In short, accelerated sociology master’s programs offer a faster return on your educational investment, an important consideration for students balancing purpose-driven careers with long-term financial planning.

Retention, Recommendation, and Reputation

When you're choosing a graduate program, especially one in a people-focused field like sociology, it's crucial to consider the student experience. Are students actually staying in the program? Do they feel supported? Would they recommend it to someone like you?

To help answer those questions, we’ve gathered data directly from students themselves. Our team has collected over 84,000 verified student surveys, allowing us to calculate recommendation rates for each school based on real feedback. We also analyze retention rates, which show how many students stay enrolled after their first year, a key indicator of program quality, support, and overall satisfaction.

Sam Houston State University

SHSU is a clear leader, earning a 97% recommendation rate — the highest on our list. Its unique focus on public sociology equips students for careers in advocacy, applied research, and government work. SHSU is also #1 on our list for highest salary among sociology students, a median of $57,408 just a few years after graduation. 

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

UAB has an 82% retention rate and a highly flexible capstone-based, non-thesis format for its sociology master's program. UAB’s strong 96% recommendation rate (from 83 student surveys) signals high satisfaction among graduates here. 

Virginia Commonwealth University

VCU also earns top marks with a 96% recommendation rate and one of the most innovative concentrations available: Digital Sociology. This program uniquely prepares students to examine how inequality plays out in online spaces, a forward-thinking approach that reflects emerging trends in real-world application.

How These Sociology Master’s Degrees Stand Apart

Across the board, these online schools on our list are rethinking what it means to earn a graduate degree in sociology online, with innovative curricula and student-centered design leading the charge.

  • Real-world application is a clear trend. At Emporia State, for instance, students can choose concentrations in Community Leadership or Criminal Justice and complete real-world capstone projects with external organizations. 
  • Flexibility is another hallmark. Programs at institutions like UAB and TWU offer 100% online, non-thesis formats, designed specifically with working professionals in mind. TWU even has rolling admissions and multiple entry points throughout the year, acknowledging that today’s learners often need more than one shot to start. 
  • Research opportunities are also plentiful, particularly at UND — a Carnegie R1 research institution. Here, students receive hands-on guidance in developing research projects that can lead to academic publication, all while learning in a fully asynchronous, no-campus-visits format. 

These sociology master’s degrees reflect not only evolving academic priorities but also a deeper understanding of what students need in order to thrive.

How a Sociology Master’s Can Equip You for Real-World Impact

Headshot of Imam Mansoor Rafiq Umar

CEO & President

As CEO of Halal Watch World, a chaplain, and an advisor to government bodies, he deals directly with systemic social issues, institutional policy, community behavior, and faith-based social services. These are all highly relevant to sociology, particularly in fields like organizational sociology, public policy, and social justice.

Describe a sociology master's program.

A master's in sociology provides a unique analytical lens that breaks down complex social problems into understandable patterns and actionable solutions. Unlike other fields that focus on individual behavior or economic factors alone, sociology examines how institutions, cultural norms, and social structures interact to create real-world challenges. This perspective becomes invaluable when addressing issues like workplace inequality, community health disparities, or organizational change initiatives. Sociologists learn to identify root causes rather than just symptoms, enabling them to design interventions that address systemic issues rather than surface-level problems.

What are career opportunities for those who graduate with a sociology master's?

Career paths for sociology master's graduates span far beyond academia. 

  • Market research analysts use sociological insights to understand consumer behavior and cultural trends. 
  • Human resources professionals leverage this knowledge to create inclusive workplace policies and resolve organizational conflicts. 
  • Non-profit program managers apply sociological principles to design effective community interventions. 
  • Corporate consultants help companies navigate diversity initiatives and social responsibility programs. 

To tailor your program, choose electives and thesis topics that align with your target industry: urban sociology for city planning careers, medical sociology for healthcare roles, or organizational sociology for business consulting positions.

What is the practical value of a sociology graduate degree?

Research methods and statistical training form the backbone of sociology's practical value across industries. Modern sociology programs emphasize data analytics, survey design, and qualitative research techniques that translate directly to market research, policy analysis, and program evaluation roles. These skills position graduates for data analyst positions, grant writing opportunities, and evidence-based decision-making roles across sectors. The ability to design studies, interpret complex data, and communicate findings clearly makes sociology graduates competitive for roles that require both analytical rigor and human insight.



Modern sociology programs emphasize data analytics, survey design, and qualitative research techniques that translate directly to market research, policy analysis, and program evaluation roles.


How should students choose the right sociology program that's still affordable? 

Look for programs offering virtual internships, capstone projects with real community partners, and faculty with active research programs who can provide mentorship. Affordable doesn't mean compromised; seek programs with strong alumni networks, career services support, and accreditation from recognized bodies. The best programs facilitate peer interaction through discussion forums, group projects, and virtual study groups that replicate the collaborative learning essential to sociology.

What advice do you have for students pursuing an online master’s in sociology?

For me, approach online learning with intentional community-building and active engagement [is more important] than passive consumption. Join professional organizations like the American Sociological Association early to access networking opportunities and stay current with field developments. Create virtual study groups with classmates and maintain regular communication with professors during office hours. Effectively bridge sociological theories with real-world events and personal experiences. This connection turns abstract concepts into useful analytical skills for your professional life.  Always strive to integrate theory with your own experiences to make it more applicable.

Final Takeaways

Online sociology master’s programs help build pathways to meaningful, community-centered careers. With tuition well below national averages and features like flexible pacing, applied research, and high student satisfaction, these programs are tailored for learners who want to make a difference without taking on excessive debt. Whether you're aiming for public service, nonprofit leadership, or policy work, the online degrees on this list prove you can pursue purpose-driven goals with both quality and cost in mind.

Featured Popular UUֱs

Online Sociology Master's Degrees You May Be Interested In


Student Reviews of Online Sociology Programs

MAnderson, Graduated 2021

I went to ASU online for my undergrad (communications) and my graduate degree (Sociology). I had a great experience overall. If you're looking to earn your MA in sociology, I think that this program is great. I was able to complete it in a year, it was relatively easy but certain classes had challenging aspects. The instructors and faculty have all been incredibly kind and helpful. All questions were answered and they all made amble effort if I had questions and concerns. Being an online experience,... Read More

Review Date: 4/14/2021

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

MAnderson, Graduated 2021

Angela C, Graduated 2019

Arizona State has made it so easy to have access to the quality education I have been looking for. From the application process to the enrollment of my classes has been very easy to navigate with someone always willing and happy to answer any questions or concerns I had. The teachers for the program I have encountered this far have been available and helpful to me and listening when I need help. I would recommend Arizona State to anyone planning to attend college online for the best experience for... Read More

Review Date: 8/21/2017

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Angela C, Graduated 2019

Kirby Forssell, Graduated 2018

Arizona State University has been an excellent experience this far. I am active duty in the United States Air Force and I travel a lot for my job. The classes I have taken are very straight forward and flexible enough that it is fairly easy to complete from all over the world. I appreciate all of the support I receive from the teachers, TA's and our personal success coach. You can tell they care a great deal about your success in the program. The classes are relevant and include exercises geared... Read More

Review Date: 2/28/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Kirby Forssell, Graduated 2018

Misty Martin, Graduated 2018

Arizona State University has provided me answers not only about my career but about myself. I have been able to explore and grow within this degree to the extent that I would have never believed possible and for that I am grateful! When I begun my journey into graduate school I had an idea of what I wanted to pursue, but it was not without the guidance of my professors that kept me pushing myself to really figure where my potential lay beneath my hidden surface.

Review Date: 12/9/2017

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Misty Martin, Graduated 2018

Michelle, Graduated 2017

My experience with Arizona State University Online Masters in Sociology program was wonderful. The technical interface used for the program was user friendly and great to interact with. The professors in this program were beyond amazing. This was my first experience with online learning and they made it a fantastic one.

Review Date: 4/26/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Michelle, Graduated 2017

Paul R Weaver, Graduated 2017

I have had an outstanding experience as a graduate student in ASU's online Sociology M.A. program, they are truly a leader in innovation as they say and more importantly they prove it through their dynamic and flexible distance graduate programs. The quality of my professors, rigor of the program and availability of resources was well in excess of my expectations for what an online graduate education experience could be . I am proud to be an ASU Sun Devil student and grateful for the ability to expand... Read More

Review Date: 9/8/2016

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Paul R Weaver, Graduated 2017

Elle T., Graduated 2017

As a working professional, I was thrilled to see ASU offer the MA in Sociology in an online format. Attending class several nights a week is not an option for me. However, I often wonder if the online format is more challenging than on-ground. In order to graduate in 15 months, students must attend sessions in Fall, Spring, and Summer, with Summer classes being as short as six weeks. The coursework is rapid-fire and intense. To get through this accelerated program, ASU provides an amazing support... Read More

Review Date: 8/13/2016

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Elle T., Graduated 2017

Zelpha, Graduated 2016

SUU is a great school, it has many opportunities to learn and apply what you are learning in the classroom to real life experience. They try to give you as much experience in selling your talents and your skills with creating resumes and presenting yourself to others both in the class room and among the local businesses. Almost every class gives you the experience of volunteering within the community and applying it to what you are learning in that class. You learn many different skills that you... Read More

Review Date: 7/21/2016

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Zelpha, Graduated 2016

Shaneel Pratap, Graduated 2015

Attended: New Mexico State University

Greetings! Thank you for giving me the opportunity in participating in this scholarly program. I would highly recommend future students in applying to the NMSU Sociology and Women's Studies Program because the Professors are magnificent and care!

Review Date: 12/23/2017

Attended: New Mexico State University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Shaneel Pratap, Graduated 2015

Lisa Roy, Graduated 2011

Attended: University of Wisconsin - Madison

I am very thankful of my degree. I was able to get a job right away after graduation. I worked in my field of study. I did find out that I will not get paid enough to make a living, so I decided to go back to school and get my Masters degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling.

Review Date: 9/5/2017

Attended: University of Wisconsin - Madison

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Lisa Roy, Graduated 2011

Latasha Belton, Graduated 2010

Attended: North Carolina Central University

I enjoyed learning about the tools to utilize how to understand and help children and adolescents during their development. I am taking this course as one of the last few necessary for completing my degree in psychology. I work three jobs, all of which relate to the field. In my primary job I serve as a youth care worker in a residential treatment facility for adolescent females with mental health, trauma, and behavioral issues. It is my responsibility to keep the residents safe while implementing... Read More

Review Date: 2/8/2017

Attended: North Carolina Central University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Latasha Belton, Graduated 2010

Tyrasia Starghill, Graduated 2017

Attended: Texas Southern University

At Texas Southern University, I completed my M.A in Sociology. There was where I met some of the university's most intellectual minds and the professors were well-versed in the subject matter. The professors did not make the journey of completion easy but when you are passionate about your studies, the work isn't viewed as difficult. I've completed very fulfilling projects and will soon be in the process of using those very tools that were gained and created to help me in the completion of my second... Read More

Review Date: 2/11/2018

Attended: Texas Southern University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Tyrasia Starghill, Graduated 2017

Jacob Torres, Graduated 2017

Attended: University of Toledo

I attended the University of Toledo for my Undergraduate degree and my Masters degree from the years of 2009-2017. The University of Toledo provided me with many opportunities I would have not received at other institutions. I was born and raised in the city of Toledo. The University of Toledo allowed me to feel as if I was attending a college that was not attached to the city I was born and raised in. During my undergraduate career, I was very involved on campus through many different organizations.... Read More

Review Date: 3/28/2017

Attended: University of Toledo

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Jacob Torres, Graduated 2017

Vera Lucia, Graduated 2017

The Arizona State University is a remarkable university that offers a great number of Doctoral, Graduate and undergraduate degrees in many different fields. I am in the Masters program for Sociology and this was the best decision I ever made. ASU has five campuses in Arizona and it offers in campus and online classes and ASU also has a great study abroad program. I like the Sociology program because ASU is concerned with the value-related aspects of sociological theory, research, and professional... Read More

Review Date: 6/15/2017

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Vera Lucia, Graduated 2017

Kia Hastings, Graduated 2015

Attended: Wichita State University

My program is fixed on making sure its graduates develop skills that makes them competitive in the job market or PhD programs. I just wish the program offered a doctoral degree itself.

Review Date: 10/3/2013

Attended: Wichita State University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Kia Hastings, Graduated 2015

Audrey Ewer, Graduated 2015

Attended: University of Houston - Clear Lake

I love the sociology program at the University of Houston - Clear Lake. The program is relatively small, and I have made true friends within the program. I do not feel stereotyped or judged, and classmates make the effort to make sure I am doing okay. My professors are top notch, and I learn much more than just textbook answers from my professors. They are not just my professors, but my mentors. The University of Houston - Clear Lake has given me the best education, and I thank the university, administration,... Read More

Review Date: 5/25/2015

Attended: University of Houston - Clear Lake

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Audrey Ewer, Graduated 2015

William Chernoff, Graduated 2015

Attended: Kansas State University

Faculty have strong connections to institutions across the state. The state doesn't have too many barriers to social science research. As a whole, social science research is highly doable activity. The program places an adequate emphasis on graduate student research. Faculty in every course encourage students to use the course as a means to do research projects. The program provides a lot of autonomy, if desired.

Review Date: 4/29/2014

Attended: Kansas State University

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

William Chernoff, Graduated 2015

Nikki Cagle, Graduated 2014

Attended: Morehead State University

Morehead State University's is located in the middle of the Daniel Boone National Forest. Campus is simply gorgeous. The lawn is always neatly manicured and the Appalachian foothills provide a picturesque backdrop to daily student life. If you enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing then Morehead would compliment your interests. The university has private hiking trails that connect with national and state trail systems; a private lake know as Eagle Lake were students can... Read More

Review Date: 7/30/2013

Attended: Morehead State University

Overall Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Nikki Cagle, Graduated 2014

Katherine Tait, Graduated 2019

Attended: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Overall, the Sociology program at UNC-Chapel Hill is strong due to its focus on professionalization of graduate students through emphases on research, publications and teaching. The program is funded for the academic year, and while it is not funded as highly as some other programs (several comparable top programs offer higher stipends and summer funding), it is still great to be able to attend a program offering funding. The level of competition among students is healthy, although the extent to... Read More

Review Date: 12/15/2015

Attended: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Overall Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Katherine Tait, Graduated 2019

Ksenia Gracheva, Graduated 2019

Attended: University of California - Irvine

Fantastic program and incredible quality of life. I chose UCI over other programs that were higher ranked and offered better stipends -- I do not regret my decision! Irvine is a great place to live and study, the program is never overwhelming and isolating, and the faculty are easily accessible and interested in working with students. Really a top notch program made possible by top notch people.

Review Date: 5/11/2015

Attended: University of California - Irvine

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Ksenia Gracheva, Graduated 2019

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