10 Best Sociology Bachelor's Degree Schools in Alabama

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In the Heart of Dixie there are many things to see and do for both tourists and residents of the great state of Alabama.

This southern state is perfect for those who want a warm and inviting climate while visiting the Tennessee river or Red Mountain, but you’ll also get a taste of the south with the delicious comfort foods and hospitality.

Along with amazing sights to see and nightlife to enjoy, Alabama has an incredible education system.

From public schools to private universities, there is something for everyone especially if you are looking for a Bachelors degree in Sociology.

You’ll find great schools in Auburn, Birmingham, Jacksonville and Mobile for your educational needs.

Whether you come for the fun or the education, you will not be disappointed when you see all that Alabama has to offer.

Take a look at our ten best schools for Sociology students right here.

1Auburn University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Auburn University is considered the number one college in the entire state of Alabama.

It is also the best value in the entire state, according to U.S. News and World Report.

If that is not enough to get you excited for this school, then maybe the sprawling campus and numerous activities will get you ready for learning here.

Located in Auburn, Alabama, this large university is ready to make your dreams come true.

Since its founding in 1856, Auburn University has been at the forefront of education in the state of Alabama, and there is no stopping it.

With over 150 different majors to choose from, undergraduate students have a lot of variety when it comes to their future.

One of the many great programs at the Bachelors degree level is a Bachelors of Art in Sociology.

Sociology is the study of social change, consequences of human behavior and causes of particular behaviors in society.

Those who want a deep understanding of why people do what they do will love this field of study.

Throughout this four year program, students will learn in a variety of science, sociology, and psychology classes which will include:

  • Theories of Crime and Criminality
  • Analytics of Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Social Inequalities
  • Humanities

While studying at Auburn University, students in the Sociology program will need to maintain a C average in order to graduate.

After four years in this program, graduates are equipped to take on research and other theories on the basis of social movements.

This means that you’ll be ready for the real world and a career in Sociology which could include:

  • Learning and Development Specialist
  • School Counselor
  • Social Worker
  • Urban Planner

Enrollment

Auburn University allows applicants to apply directly on the website, which makes it quite easy to get your enrollment ready to go.

You will need to create an account on the site, which is a way to save your information if you have to leave the application at any time.

All types of students can apply from high school juniors and seniors as well as transfer and international learners.

Before you decide to enroll, Auburn University would love if you took a virtual or in person tour to make sure that you are ready to commit to this great school.

There is a $50 non-refundable application fee that you can pay right on the website after you complete your application, which will have some important information to submit as well such as:

  • ACT or SAT scores
  • High school or previous education transcripts

Prospective students will need to submit their application before fall and winter deadlines to ensure enrollment.

Once you have submitted your application, you may need to wait a couple of weeks to hear back from the school on your status.

It is also possible to check your status on the website, and once you have been accepted you can begin enrolling in classes and signing up for orientation.

Fees

Alabama residents will pay $12,536 per year to attend Auburn University while those from out of state will have a larger tuition bill at $33,944 per year.

A Bachelors degree is a four year commitment, so Alabama residents will end up paying $50,144 in base tuition at this school.

Residents of other states who head to Auburn University to learn will pay $135,776 in total base tuition after four years.

There are some other fees per year that apply to some students, such as:

  • Housing – $3,873-7,698
  • Books, transportation and materials – $3,683

There are financial aid and scholarship options for all students who attend this school.

Contact Information

  • Address: 182 S. College St. Auburn, AL 36849
  • Phone: 334-844-4000
  • Website: www.auburn.edu

2University of Alabama-Birmingham

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

The University of Alabama in Birmingham prides itself on being a change for the world to come.

Ever since its founding in 1969, students from far and wide have come to enjoy the many diverse amenities at this incredible campus.

As a public university, you’ll be a part of a study body if about 13,000 people who will help you change the way you think and the way you look at the world around you.

The University of Alabama in Birmingham is in the top 100 of public schools in the United States according to U.S. News and World Report.

You will get a comprehensive and stellar education whether you are from Alabama or around the country.

Those who want to learn more about the human mind and behaviors that affect social change can look into the Sociology Bachelors degree, one of the hundreds of Bachelors degree programs offered here.

Throughout this degree, students are committed to understanding why people do what they do.

In this four year program there are many ways to learn including classroom time and field work.

Some of the courses that you will take along your journey at this university include:

  • Sociological Literacy
  • Mind, Self and Society
  • Psychopathology and Culture
  • Death and Dying

Each student will find ways to understand the human brain and learn more about society in every course.

If this sounds like the plan for you, consider applying to the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

A four year degree will provide the education necessary to secure a career in Sociology that is needed and highly regarded today.

Some of the careers that you could find yourself in after graduation are:

  • Public Health Educator
  • Program Officer
  • Survey Research Technician
  • Child Welfare Specialist

Enrollment

It is easy to get enrolled to start your first year at the University of Alabama in Birmingham.

In order to begin your application, you will need to provide the following information:

  • Proof of high school diploma
  • Transcripts from high school
  • ACT and SAT scores

Before you are able to begin classes, you will need to submit a $40 non-refundable application fee.

If you already have some credits from another school, you will need to submit proof of those credits while you apply as well.

Credits for advanced placement and military are also provided for this school.

Fees

For students who are from Alabama, the tuition per year at the University of Alabama in Birmingham is $30,407.

If you plan to come to this school from another state, you should expect for your tuition to be a bit higher at $46,455 per year.

The school also provides education for transfer students and even international learners.

A transfer student could pay anywhere from $19,737 to $35,775 a year here.

International students will pay the most tuition, roughly $51,000 a year to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

Contact Information

  • Address: 1720 2nd. Ave South Birmingham, Alabama 35294
  • Phone: 205-934-4011
  • Website: www.uab.edu

3Troy University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus
Online

Through the international school of Troy University in Troy, Alabama, students will find a diverse group of people to commingle and learn alongside.

Ranked in the top 50 of public school’s in the United States, people from all backgrounds head here to earn a Bachelors degree or even a Masters degree and beyond.

With its founding in the 1800’s, Troy University has been a staple in the great state of Alabama for over 130 years.

Today, students come from all around the world to study one of the hundreds of degrees available to undergraduate and graduate students.

One of the many degrees available for undergraduate learners is the Sociology Bachelors degree, which provides knowledge in human function as well as social change, organizations and most of all societies.

Not only can students study Sociology on campus, but there are options for online degrees at this university as well.

This means you can learn at home on your own time or head to campus to sit in classes with like-minded people.

Not only will students within the Sociology program study general education classes, but also more fine-tuned courses such as:

  • Research Methods in the Social Sciences
  • Sociological Theory
  • Statistics
  • Computer Concepts and Applications

Each course is designed to bring you one step closer to a career in Sociology that can stand the test of time.

You will also have the opportunity at Troy University to take part in an accelerated law program option for people who want to complete their Juris Doctor degree within six years.

Completing all of the 120 credit hours required for graduation at Troy University will give you access to hundreds of new job prospects in Sociology, like:

  • Labor Relations Specialist
  • Compliance Manager
  • Historian
  • Sociologist

Enrollment

No matter if you are a first year freshman, GED freshman, adult learner, transfer student, or an international student you are welcome to apply to Troy University.

Since there are so many types of students who look to apply here, enrollment requirements will vary, so check out the website.

The best and easiest way to apply to Troy University is online, which should take about twenty to thirty minutes to complete.

Most applicants will need to provide the following information along with their application:

  • ACT and SAT scores
  • Transcripts from high school
  • Proof of at least a 2.0 GPA

If you are over 21 years old, you won’t need to provide transcripts from high school, but if you are transferring from another school, those transcripts are required.

Adult learners will need to provide proof of a 2.0 GPA from high school or higher education.

Those who plan to attend Troy University from another country will need to provide the following:

  • Complete an international application
  • Provide a copy of transcripts as well as proof of a high school diploma
  • Financial support statement
  • Passport identification
  • English proficiency

After completing your application it may take a week or two to hear back from an academic advisor about the status of your enrollment.

Fees

Students who are from Alabama will pay $11,640 per year to attend Troy University.

Those from other states and outside of the country will pay a bit more at $23,280 annually.

It should take about four years to complete a degree, so the average in state student will pay in total $46,560 to attend the school.

A total cost of $93,120 is what an out of state student would pay to graduate from Troy University.

Contact Information

  • Address: 600 University Ave. Troy, Alabama 36082
  • Phone: 800-414-5756
  • Website: www.troy.edu

4University of North Alabama

Programs Offered:
On-Campus
Online

The University of North Alabama is one of the fastest growing schools in the state, and that is due to affordable prices and a diverse student body.

No matter your background, you are welcome to attend The University of North Alabama in Florence to complete your college goals.

Ranking number 9 among Public Regional Universities in the south by U.S. News and World Report, there are many things to boast about here.

If you enjoy city life and a large campus, this is the perfect school for you.

Not only will you be able to make friends among the 6,000 plus student body, you can enroll in hundreds of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations to help you succeed.

There are over 150 majors and minors to choose from at the University of North Alabama, but those who take an interest in society and want to learn about changes in the world, families, and how environments affect humans can partake in the Sociology Bachelors degree program.

Within this program, students will take 120 credit hours of classes that expand their mind in three different concentrations:

  • Family Life Education
  • Non-Profit Management
  • Industrial Leadership

You are able to take classes in these concentrations both on campus as well as online.

Within these concentrations, students will find similar courses in Sociology such as:

  • Social Psychology
  • Human Growth and Development
  • The Self and Social Interaction
  • Cultural Diversity and Social Inequality

After earning a degree, which typically takes about four years, graduates are ready and able to dive into the world of Sociology in careers including:

  • Juvenile Services Specialist
  • Certified Family Life Educator
  • Student Affairs Professional
  • Housing Officer

Enrollment

You’ll want to head to the website to fill out this easy application, which shouldn’t take more than thirty minutes to complete.

Along with your personal information, you’ll need to provide the following criteria to the school:

  • Transcripts from previous education
  • ACT or SAT scores

Prospective students will need to have at least a 2.5 GPA to be considered for enrollment.

After completing the application it should take about a week or two to hear back from an academic advisor.

Then, you’ll be able to set up a campus tour, enroll in orientation and get ready for your classes.

Fees

In state and online students who are full time will pay $10,200 per year for a total of $40,800 after four years of education.

If you plan to come from another state to the University of North Alabama, you will pay $20,400 per year for your education.

This total comes out to $81,600 after earning a Bachelors degree.

Meal plans and housing will cost an additional amount depending on the type of package you choose.

On average, students pay $2,340 for housing per semester and $1,775 per semester for a meal plan.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for this school.

Contact Information

  • Address: 1 Harrison Plaza Florence, AL 35632
  • Phone: 256-765-4100
  • Website: www.una.edu

5Jacksonville State University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus
Online

In Jacksonville, Alabama, you will find Jacksonville State University which is a mid-sized southern school that prides itself on togetherness and individuality.

Here, you will find the highest percentage of accredited programs in the state, with over 101 currently.

A student body of about 10,000 means you’ll always find new friends and something to do on Friday nights.

Students who are interested in careers in criminal justice, education, government and even counseling can take a look at one of the over 100 programs, Sociology, and their four year Bachelors degree.

This program instills knowledge in all areas of Sociology including courses taught by industry professionals:

  • Social Problems
  • Social Psychology
  • Race, Ethnicity, and Society
  • Gender and Society

Whether you want to enroll on campus or online is up to you, as there are options for both within this degree program.

Earning a degree from Jacksonville State University will provide graduates with the necessary knowledge to conduct great life-long work in roles such as:

  • Community Health Worker
  • Paralegal
  • Career Counselor
  • Market Research Analyst

Enrollment

If you are a first year freshman, transfer student, returning learner, or even from another country you can apply to Jacksonville State University on the website.

It costs $35 to apply and that fee is non-refundable.

Once you are on the website and ready to apply, you will want to submit your transcripts from high school or previous college education in order to complete the required paperwork.

You can also submit your ACT or SAT scores but they are not necessary for admission.

After completing your application you will want to create an account on the website for easier navigation and so you can check your status.

It should take a week or two to hear back about your application and enrollment status.

Fees

Students who want to attend Jacksonville State University who are from Alabama will pay $10,290 per year for attendance.

Those who are from out of state will pay more at a rate of $20,580 per year.

This means that students will pay between $41,160 and $82,320 for basic tuition at this school.

Military students will find that their tuition is lower at $7,500 per year and $30,000 for total tuition costs after earning a Bachelors degree.

Other fees may apply such as books, housing, food, and other miscellaneous costs.

Contact Information

  • Address: 700 Pelham Rd. Jacksonville, AL 36265
  • Phone: 800-231-5291
  • Website: www.jsu.edu

6University of South Alabama

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

The University of Southern Alabama is located in the town of Mobile and is a wonderful public university founded in 1963.

With humble beginnings, this school has charged the way to housing more than 10,000 students per year.

This university is also the flagship school of the south, meaning it is the most well-known school and has bright outcomes for many graduates.

Along with several other majors, students who are interested in helping their fellow man and creating a better world may want to look into the Sociology Bachelors degree.

The Sociology department at the University of Southern Alabama is ranked highly in externally funded research which provides students with the opportunities to learn and grow in scholarly knowledge.

Within this four year program, students will have a basic understanding of environmental functions as well as society in courses that include:

  • Social Problems
  • Sociological Theory
  • Social Research Analysis
  • Cultural Anthropology

With a small student-to-faculty ratio, each person will gain the attention and direction needed to succeed in this program.

There are many things that you can do with a degree in Sociology, especially once you graduate from the University of South Alabama.

After the 120 credit hours are completed, you will be on your way to a lifelong career helping others in roles such as:

  • Public Policy Specialist
  • Healthcare Worker
  • Consumer Relations Specialist
  • Teacher

Enrollment

You’ll want to head right to the website to apply to the University of South Alabama.

Along with your application, you will need to show proof of the following criteria:

  • Hold at least a 3.4 GPA for automatic admission
  • Go through the entire application process if your GPA is less than 3.4
  • Have an ACT score of 21 or over and an SAT score of at least 1060
  • Provide transcripts from high school or previously attended colleges

It should take about a week to hear back from the school on your acceptance.

Once you have been accepted, you will receive a student number so that you can apply for housing, meal plans, and financial aid.

You will also get to enroll in classes at that time.

Don’t forget to sign up for orientation and a campus tour to get used to your new life at the University of South Alabama.

Fees

In state students will pay $10,070 per year to attend the University of South Alabama.

This comes out to $40,280 for a four year college degree.

If you are from another state, you will typically pay $16,292 per year to attend this school.

This yearly rate adds up to 65,168 after completing a Bachelors degree.

Housing and meal plans will be an extra fee that can be chosen once you have been accepted into the school.

You will also have access to financial aid and scholarships to help with the cost of attendance.

Contact Information

  • Address: 3o7 North University Blvd. Mobile, Alabama 36688
  • Phone: 251-460-6101
  • Website: www.southalabama.edu

7Samford University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama has been a leader in Christian education since the mid-1800s.

Don’t fret if you do not have a Christian or religious background, as the school takes people from all walks of life and does not discriminate when considering new students.

According to the Wall Street Journal, Samford University is considered number one in Alabama and has a 98% graduation rate.

With those accolades and small classes sizes, just 14 to one, you will be determined to reach your goal of earning a Bachelors degree here.

Along with several hundred options for undergraduate and graduate degrees, one of the most popular and fulfilling routes is the Sociology Bachelors degree.

For those who like to study human behavior and understand why people do what they do, this four year program is perfect to answer all your questions.

Within this program, students will have classroom time discussing the world and the people in it in courses like:

  • Sociological Theory
  • Quantitative Analysis in Social Sciences
  • Research Methods
  • Introduction to Sociology

Not only will students gain knowledge in the classroom, but a requirement for graduation is to take on a Sociology internship.

This internship should be done through the community in roles that deal with every day issues such as literacy, probation, the elderly, government and much more.

Sociology can be mastered in all types of career settings, and this degree will help students find introductory roles in a variety of jobs, including:

  • Public Health Educator
  • Urban Planner
  • School Counselor
  • Market Researcher

Enrollment

In order to apply to Samford University, you will need to pay a $40 non-refundable application fee.

Along with your application, you should be prepared to write a 250 word essay.

There are some important pieces of information that you should attach to your paperwork, and that includes:

  • High school transcripts
  • ACT and SAT scores
  • Academic letter of recommendation

There are no required ACT or SAT scores to apply to Samford University, however, the majority of students have score of 23-29 on the ACT and obtain at least 1150 on the SAT.

Fees

If you attend Samford University full time, you will pay $17,875 per semester.

Freshmen at Samford University are required to live on campus, which can cost anywhere from $2,636 to $4,866 per semester, depending on the residence hall.

Meal plans are also required for Freshmen students, which will cost about $2,645 per semester.

Upperclassmen are also required to pay for meal plans, at $2,025 per semester.

This means that new students will pay around $36,724 per year and since it takes four years to complete a degree, graduates will end up paying $146,896 for their degree.

Contact Information

  • Address: 800 Lakeshore Dr. Birmingham, Alabama 35229
  • Phone: 205-726-2011
  • Website: www.samford.edu

8Tuskegee University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

This private university is ranked number six in the state of Alabama by U.S. News and World Report.

With just about 2,000 students enrolled each year, this small school is perfect for those who want a top-notch education without the hustle and bustle of a big city.

There are just over 60 degrees to choose from at Tuskegee University, which is located in Tuskegee, Alabama.

Sociology is one of the popular degree options here, which focuses on real world issues and how to incorporate all humans in helping the world become a better place.

Students have the ability to learn through competent faculty member in comprehensives courses that include:

  • Introduction to Social Issues
  • Contemporary Sociological Theory
  • Population
  • Sociological Research

Students will also have the option to join clubs as well as research opportunities to learn even more about humans and how they function.

Once you have completed the 120 credit hours required for graduation from Tuskegee University, you will be prepared and ready for a career in all types of arenas.

Some of the best Sociology careers will take you into the city or urban setting to help others, including roles like:

  • Criminologist
  • Medical Sociologist
  • Federal Case Manager
  • Urban and Regional Planner

Enrollment

Freshman and transfer students as well as international learners are welcome to apply to Tuskegee University, all you’ll need to do is head to the website.

There, you will find all the requirements necessary for your application.

First, you will need to submit a $25 application fee that is non-refundable.

Then, you will need to provide the following information:

  • Transcripts from high school or previous education
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Letter of recommendation

Once you submit all of your paperwork, be ready to hear back from an academic advisor about the next steps, like orientation and enrolling in classes.

You may even want to take a campus tour to learn more about your new school.

Fees

Full time students will pay $19,594 annually to attend Tuskegee University.

With room and board, that total goes up to $34,186.

Since it takes about four years to complete a degree, students will pay between $78,376 and $136,744 to attend Tuskegee University.

Other fees that may apply yearly include:

  • Technology – $632
  • Health insurance – $1,400
  • Books – $600

Financial aid and scholarships are available for qualified students.

Contact Information

  • Address: 1200 West Montgomery Rd. Tuskegee, AL 36088
  • Phone: 334-727-8011
  • Website: www.tuskegee.edu

9Athens State University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Athens State University is a great place to finish your degree no matter where you may have started it.

Located in the middle of Athens, Alabama, this school is one of the oldest in the state and has hundreds of thousands of alumni who are currently working in the field of their dreams.

You will find all types of programs available here to learn and grow, including the Sociology Bachelors degree.

Within this program, students will gain knowledge in sociological principles as well as insight into other peoples’ prospectives as well as your own.

You will enjoy the wide variety of classes to be taken in order to graduate from this school.

Not only will you partake in general education courses, but there are specialized courses for Sociology majors as well.

These courses are designed to get you out into the field and ready for a career in Sociology, and include names such as:

  • Contemporary American Family
  • Sociological Theories
  • Social Analysis
  • Population Study

Learning about how other people work will not only help you in your career but also in your personal life.

That is why a degree from Athens State University is the perfect starting point for a career in Sociology.

Expect many doors to open for you after you graduate, and you will be able to find yourself in roles such as:

  • Extension Services Specialist
  • Personnel Coordinator
  • Urban Planner
  • Special Agent

Enrollment

Enrolling at Athens State University is fairly simple and can be done right on the website.

If you plan to attend Athens State University, you will need to have college experience.

Along with your application, you should submit the following information:

  • Have at least 36 transferable credit hours from an accredited institution
  • Possess a minimum of 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Have obtained a minimum of 15 general education credit hours

It is quite that simple and should only take about a half an hour to complete the application.

Once you submit your information, it should take about a week to hear back from an academic advisor, at which time you’ll be able to enroll in orientation and classes.

Fees

Students who attend Athens State University will pay $9,158 annually if they are from Alabama.

If you are from another state and want to attend Athens State University, you will pay $18,316 per year.

With the credits already applied for admission, it should take about three years to complete your degree at this school.

This means that in state students will pay $27,474 upon graduation and out of state students will pay $54,948.

Contact Information


10University of Mobile

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Our last school is the University of Mobile, which is a private institution housing just under 2,000 students per year.

This Christ-centered liberal arts school may be Christian based, but it is a university that will take on any background and upbringing to give all students the equal opportunity to learn and grow.

With over 75 academic majors to choose from, there is something for every goal within the towering buildings.

Sociology is one of the most popular areas of study within the University of Mobile, and students from all across the world come to enjoy the benefits of this program.

It should take about four years and 120 credit hours to complete this degree, giving students the ability to understand how humans work and incorporate that knowledge in every day life.

You’ll take on classes that will enrich your mind and prepare you for a career in Sociology across the board.

Some of the courses that you will take throughout your time at the University of Mobile include:

  • Western Civilization
  • Environmental Science
  • World Politics
  • Modern Social Problems

Students at the University of Mobile will also have the opportunity to take part in a 5 year Master of Science in Social Work if they so choose.

This is an accelerated program that will allow you to earn a Masters degree in just one year after completing your Bachelors.

No matter which path you choose, you will be ready for a career in Sociology once you have graduated from this school.

There are a multitude of opportunities awaiting for you within roles that you didn’t even know existed in the realm of Sociology, such as:

  • Foreign Affairs Officer
  • Criminologist
  • Addiction Counselor
  • Child Welfare Specialist

Enrollment

In order to apply to the University of Mobile, prospective students will need to have at least a 2.75 GPA to apply without providing an ACT or SAT score.

If you don’t have a GPA higher than 2.75, you’ll need to have at least a 21 on your ACT.

Freshman and transfer students will need to submit their transcripts from previous education in order to be considered for enrollment as well.

Once you have completed your application, head down to campus to check out a campus tour.

Upon admission, you should enroll in orientation and apply for classes as soon as possible.

MMR shot verification is also required for admission into the University of Mobile.

All acceptance letters will be issued via email.

Fees

Full time students will pay an annual fee of $11,930 to attend the University of Mobile.

Since it takes about four years to complete a Bachelors degree, this total comes out to $47,720.

A new student orientation fee of $215 is always required.

Room and board can cost anywhere from $2,600 to $3,410 per semester, and other fees will apply such as books, transportation, and health insurance in some cases.

There are financial aid and scholarships available for all students.

Contact Information

  • Address: 5735 College Parkway Mobile, Alabama 36613
  • Phone: 251-675-5990
  • Website: www.umobile.edu

Final Thoughts

Now that you have seen what Alabama has to offer when it comes to great education, we hope that your decision is a little easier.

Sociology is an important aspect of today’s world, and these schools will help you fulfill your dreams.

Jamie Willis
Career Specialist at BecomeopediaHi, my name is Jamie Willis, and I have been helping students find their perfect internships and education paths for the last ten years. It is a passion of mine, and there really is nothing better than seeing students of mine succeed with further studies.