Degree Overview
Understanding People, Society, and the Forces That Shape Both
Sociology asks the questions other disciplines take for granted — why do people behave the way they do, how do social structures form and change, and what can data tell us about the world we live in? Batten's online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology grounds you in the concepts, theories, and research methods that sociologists use to make sense of human behavior at every scale, from interpersonal relationships to global systems. The curriculum is deliberately flexible, letting you tailor your electives toward applied sociology, social research, or a wide range of allied fields depending on where you want to take the degree. Graduates go on to careers in social services, public policy, research, education, law, and healthcare — fields where understanding people is the whole job.
Course Information
All Batten students complete a shared general education curriculum designed to build critical thinking, communication, and a broad academic foundation alongside your major coursework. The four components are:
- English Composition — ENG 105: The Art of Writing (must be passed with a C or higher)
- Foreign Language Proficiency — demonstrate competency through coursework, AP/CLEP credit, or prior study. Transfer students entering with 60+ credits have a simplified pathway.
- Batten Seminars — three seminar-style courses (Seminars I, II, and III) that develop scholarly inquiry, writing, and oral communication skills
- Breadth Requirement — 24 credit hours spanning arts and humanities, mathematics, natural sciences, and social sciences, drawn from at least six different departments outside your major
View full General Education requirements on the Batten University website →
Core Courses
Students seeking an applied emphasis should consider SOC 353 and SOC 270. Consult your advisor or view the full catalog for course descriptions.
SOC Electives
See your advisor or the full catalog for course titles and availability.
Allied Courses & Internship
This list is updated regularly. Consult your advisor to choose allied courses suited to your academic and career interests.
Internship (optional)
Career Outcomes
Sociology graduates develop a practical understanding of how people, institutions, and communities interact. Through coursework in research methods, social systems, and applied sociology, this program prepares students for roles across human services, healthcare, research, government, and organizational settings. Optional internship opportunities also provide hands-on experience before graduation.
Social Services and Community Organizations
Graduates may pursue roles in community outreach, case support, advocacy, and nonprofit program coordination where understanding social systems and community needs is essential.
Public Health and Healthcare Support
Sociology's focus on social determinants and behavioral systems supports careers in public health outreach, healthcare support services, patient advocacy, and health program coordination.
Research and Government Support
Training in research methods and data interpretation prepares graduates for roles supporting program evaluation, research coordination, policy research, and public-sector administration.
Human Resources and Organizational Development
An understanding of group dynamics, workplace culture, and organizational behavior can support careers in human resources, employee development, workplace training, and organizational support functions.
Why Batten Online
92%
Successful Graduates
Of our graduates receive job offers or go on to graduate school within one year of graduation.
Free & Rolling
Apply Anytime
Rolling admissions means you can start when you're ready. Our application is free — no fee standing between you and your degree.
96
Transfer Credits Accepted
Transfer up to 96 credits into an undergraduate program. You've already done the work — you shouldn't have to pay for it twice.
90%
Highly Qualified Faculty
Of our professors have attained the highest degree in their fields. You learn from people who've lived the work, not just read about it.
How to Apply
Admission Requirements
- Complete our online application.
- Applicants who have not yet completed 12 semester hours of college work must submit an official high school transcript and an official college transcript from all colleges and universities previously attended. Applicants who have not taken an SAT or ACT may be admitted on the basis of an evaluation of high school coursework. Applicants who are not high school graduates may be admitted on the basis of GED test results.
- Applicants who have successfully completed 12 or more semester hours of college work must submit official college transcripts from all institutions previously attended. Generally, individuals transferring to Batten University must present a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.
Financial Aid
There may be financial aid options available to you when you apply for an online program at Batten University.
Explore Financial Aid Options