10 Best Sociology Bachelor's Degree Schools in Virginia

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As one of the first states to join the union, Virginia has a rich and powerful history.

Tourists love to enjoy the Colonial villages and old-world charm of this great state, and residents can appreciate their impact as well.

Those who are ready to take the next step in their education will have an easy time finding a great place to learn in this gorgeous state.

From treelined small colleges to lakeside large campuses, there is something for everyone who wants a degree in Sociology right in Virginia.

Take a look at ten of the best schools for people interested in a Sociology Bachelors degree right here on our list.

From Fairfax to Richmond, there is something for every interest and we know you will be ready to enroll in at least one.

1University of Virginia

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

The University of Virginia is considered number 24 for best National Universities, honored by U.S. News and World Report.

This public school is located in Charlottesville and is the proud home for over 18,000 students each year.

You will find opportunities to do research, join clubs and organizations, as well as enroll in internships on campus and throughout the city.

There are hundreds of programs to choose from here, and one of the popular four year degree choices is the Sociology Bachelors degree.

Provided by the School of Arts and Sciences, students will take on small classes with discussion and research with names like:

  • Sociology of the Family
  • Gender and Society
  • Culture and Power
  • Future Cities
  • Human Society in History

Students who are in their senior year will need to complete a thesis that will showcase all that they have learned throughout their time here.

Then, you will be ready to walk across the stage and take your degree anywhere in the world with a role such as:

  • Historian
  • Journalist
  • Corrections Officer
  • Community Service Manager

Enrollment

In order to enroll at the University of Virginia prospective students will need to submit their application online.

It is required to create an account on the school’s website, this way you’ll be able to save your information and come back if needed.

Along with your application, it is important to provide the following information:

  • High school transcripts
  • ACT and SAT scores
  • Secondary school report
  • Counselor recommendation
  • Teacher recommendation

It should take about a week or two to hear back on your application status, an academic advisor will get in contact you via email when a decision has been made.

Then, you will be able to sign up for orientation and begin enrolling in classes.

Fees

Full time students who are from Virginia will pay $20,342 per year to attend this school while out of state students will pay $55,914.

Since it takes four years to complete a Bachelors degree at this school, graduates who are from Virginia will pay $81,368 while out of state students will have an expense of $223,656 to attend this school.

Other fees may apply such as books, transportation, and personal expenses.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for all students who attend the University of Virginia.

Contact Information

  • Address: 1827 University Ave. Charlottesville, VA 22904
  • Phone: 434-924-0311
  • Website: www.virginia.edu

2George Mason University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Fairfax, Virginia is home to the diverse and all inclusive George Mason University.

As a mid-sized school, students can enjoy the amenities with over 13,000 other classmates.

From organizations that suit a multitude of interests to clubs and even sports, George Mason University has it all.

Students from over 130 countries have traveled here to enjoy the exceptional education in one of the over 100 programs offered.

If you are ready to take on the comprehensive learning here, then check out the Sociology Bachelors degree.

This degree will give you four years of classroom time as well as hands-on experience in research and independent study.

Along the way, expect to spend your time in classes that are steeped in culture, diversity, gender, and much more like:

  • Methods and Logic of Inquiry
  • Sociological Theory
  • Statistics
  • Sociological Analysis and Practice

During your senior year, it is important to complete an internship locally.

This way, you will learn hands-on knowledge in Sociology and have a leg up when you start to look for employment.

After graduation, you will see many doors open for you in Sociology roles such as:

  • Methods and Logic of Inquiry
  • Sociological Theory
  • Statistics
  • Sociological Analysis and Practice

Enrollment

Enrollment at George Mason University is quite simple and can be done on the school’s website.

All you will need to do is go to the admissions tab and find the right application for you.

The school accepts first year freshman, transfer students, international students as well as returning learners.

Before signing up for enrollment, you may want to think about attending a campus tour, which can be done virtually or in person.

Once you have decided to apply to George Mason University, you can create an account and start filling out your personal information.

Currently, there is a $70 non-refundable application fee for students from the United States, while international students will pay an $80 fee.

Along with your application, please provide the following paperwork:

  • High school transcripts
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Secondary school report
  • Personal statement

After submitting all of your information it may take a couple of weeks to know if you have been accepted.

There are deadlines throughout the year so keep that in mind when submitting.

Fees

In order to attend George Mason University, Virginia residents will need to pay $13,812 per year for a total of $55,248 after four years of education.

Those from out of state will pay $37,976 to attend for one year and $151,904 to complete their degree.

These numbers do not include room and board which will be an additional $15,151 per year for those amenities.

Other fees may apply such as:

  • Books – 1,278
  • Transportation – $1,200
  • Personal expenses – $2,750
  • Lab fees – $100

Contact Information

  • Address: 4400 University Dr. Fairfax, VA 22030
  • Phone: 703-993-1000
  • Website: www.gmu.edu

3Longwood University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Farmville, Virginia provides an exceptional and experiential education in the form of Longwood University.

This historic public school has been around since the 1830’s and has built a quiet but interesting reputation.

Only about 3,800 students attend each year, which is perfect for those who are looking for a tight knit community.

The Sociology Bachelors degree is a popular choice at Longwood University, and this four year program will provide you the ability to work in Virginia as well as anywhere in the world.

You will enjoy classes with likeminded students that are rich in understanding social change, diversity, race, and more, such as:

  • Contemporary Social Problems
  • Sociology in Practice
  • Deviance
  • Digital Society

At Longwood University, you will have the choice to enroll in general Sociology as a major or pick a concentration like:

  • Family Studies
  • Community Health

Each choice will bring you one step closer to an interesting and integral role in Sociology once you graduate.

The last step in your journey will be to take part in an internship that is done locally through a government agency, healthcare clinic, or even a school.

Once you have completed 120 credit hours and your internship, you will be ready to take on the world of Sociology in a role including:

  • Social Worker
  • Probation Officer
  • Community Development Officer
  • Insurance Agent

Enrollment

Head to the Longwood University school website to find the admissions tab to get started.

There, you’ll see that there are several different applications to choose from.

No matter if you are a first year freshman, transfer student, or even from another country, you have a spot here at Longwood University.

In order to complete your application it is required to create an account.

Then, you will need to fill out your personal information and include the following:

  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Personal statement
  • Letters of recommendation

After completing the above criteria, submit your application and wait to hear back from an academic advisor.

You can also check the status of your application on the school’s website.

Once you have heard back about your acceptance, it is time to begin orientation, signing up for classes and even taking a campus tour.

Fees

Virginia residents who live on campus will pay $28,796 while out of state students will pay $41,006 per year to attend Longwood University.

These numbers include room and board fees, but for those who plan to live off campus the yearly tuition is $19,936 for in-state students and $32,146 for out of state learners.

Virginia residents will pay between $79,744 and $115,184 to attend Longwood University while out of state students will pay between $128,584 and $164,024 for their college degree.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for all students.

Contact Information

  • Address: 201 High St. Farmville, VA 23901
  • Phone: 434-395-2000
  • Website: www.longwood.edu

4Marymount University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Marymount University is a private Catholic School in Arlington, Virginia.

Considered a younger university with its start in 1950, currently about 2,700 students attend each year.

You do not need to be Catholic in order to consider this school for enrollment, however it is encouraged.

Faith, diversity and inclusivity are a big part of this school and it is shown through their morals and leadership actions.

Small classes of less than 20 students are the norm here, which is great for those who want individualized attention.

If you are considering a small school, Marymount University may be just right for you.

Those who want to understand society and learn more about human behavior can take part in the Sociology Bachelors degree program offered here.

This program is four years long and provides students hands-on experience in Sociology in courses like:

  • Principles of Sociology
  • The Global Village
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Working for Justice, Working for Change

Students will have the chance to work with researchers in labs as well as community service opportunities throughout the Arlington area.

Then, it will be time to graduate and take on the real world of Sociology in roles such as:

  • Learning and Development Specialist
  • Social Worker
  • Diversity Manager
  • School Counselor

Enrollment

First year students, transfer, returning, international and even online students can apply right on the Marymount University website.

Admissions happen throughout the year so you won’t have to worry about deadlines.

The first thing that you are going to want to do is create an account and then start filling out your personal information.

Along with your information, supply the following documents with your application:

  • High school transcripts
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Personal essay

A resumé may also be required for some degrees and programs.

Students from other countries will need to provide English proficiency exam results.

Once you have complete the application you can sign up for a campus tour, orientation, and even enroll in classes after becoming admitted.

Fees

All students who attend Marymount University will pay $37,400 per year for a total of $149,600 after four years of education.

Room and board are not included in these prices and should be discussed with an academic advisor once you have decided you want to live on campus.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for all students.

Contact Information

  • Address: 2807 North Glebe Rd. Arlington, VA 22207
  • Phone: 703-522-5600
  • Website: www.marymount.edu

5James Madison University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

James Madison University is a large public school that has been around since the early 1900’s.

Over 20,000 students attend this red-roofed campus each year where they can choose from one of the 139 programs available.

Those who are looking for an inclusive and comprehensive education can look no further than James Madison University.

Located in Harrisburg, James Madison University is the number one recommended school in Virginia according to the Wall Street Journal.

That being said, one of the popular options for undergraduate degrees is the Sociology program.

Within this program, students learn about others as well as themselves in classes such as:

  • Social Issues in a Global Context
  • Sociological Inquiry
  • Development of Sociological Thought and Method
  • The Individual in Sociology

Students are also welcome to choose one of the concentrations to complete their degree:

  • Communities, Inequalities, and Public Policy
  • Environment, Technology, and Innovation
  • Health, Medicine, and Society
  • Markets and Cultures
  • Political and Global Analysis

No matter which path you choose, it will take four years and 120 credit hours to complete this important program.

Then, after you have completed all required courses with good grades it is time to walk across that stage and earn your degree.

Once you have finished your time at James Madison University, get ready for a role in Sociology such as:

  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Veteran Affairs Manager
  • Gerontologist
  • Technical Writer

Enrollment

There are several options for enrollment at James Madison University, returning students, new students, transfer, military, and even international students are welcome to enroll.

The application is easy and can be done within about a half an hour.

Just head to the website and find the admissions tab to begin.

Along with your application you will also need to submit:

  • Official transcripts from high school or previous universities
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Personal essay
  • SAT or ACT scores

As soon as a decision has been made, an admissions counselor will contact you to talk about further steps.

Fees

In state students will pay $13,576 per year to attend James Madison University.

In state students who plan to live and eat on campus will pay $25,840 per year.

This adds up to $54,304 after four years for off-campus students and $103,360 after four years for on-campus students.

If you are from another state, you will pay $30,790 for off-campus living and $43,054 to live on campus at James Madison University.

Expect to pay between $123,160 and $172,216 to earn a degree after four years.

Financial aid and scholarships will help students pay for school at this university.

Contact Information

  • Address: 800 South Main St. Harrisonburg, VA 22807
  • Phone: 540-568-6211
  • Website: www.jmu.edu

6Radford University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Some people may be looking for a smaller public school like Radford University in Radford, Virginia.

The Princeton Review has nominated Radford University as one of the Best Regional Colleges for the year of 2023.

Not only that but U.S. News and World Report has given Radford University the honor of being one of the Top Universities in the South.

These accolades along with the diverse and inclusive education here should get you excited to enroll.

Those who are interested in social change, understanding society, gender, and race should consider the Sociology Bachelors degree.

Brought to you by the College of Human and Behavioral Sciences, the Sociology program is well-equipped to set you on a path for success.

Not only will you be required to finish general education classes, but you will also be given the opportunity to learn in courses like:

  • Social Inequality
  • Society and the Individual
  • Survey Research Methods
  • Sociological Theory

Students will also partake in a senior research seminar to finish out their four year education.

Once you have completed 120 credit hours at Radford University, it is time to take all that you have learned into the real world and find a successful career such as:

  • Adoption Agent
  • Family Guidance Case Worker
  • Rehabilitation Counselor
  • Anthropologist

Enrollment

In order to apply to Radford University you will need to go to their website and fill out an application.

It is required to create an account on the school’s website to submit the application.

International students, transfer students, and even military active-duty and veterans are welcome to apply to this college.

In order to make your application complete, you will also need to submit the following information:

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

It is free to submit an application to Radford University at this time.

Once you have submitted your application and paperwork it make take about a week for an admission decision.

After getting accepted you can sign up for classes, enroll in orientation and begin a campus tour to get to know your new school better.

Fees

Redford University students from Virginia will pay $12,286 per year to attend this school.

For those who plan to utilize room and board amenities, that price goes up to $23,850.

Since it takes four years to complete a degree at this school, Virginia residents will pay between $49,144 and $95,400.

Students from out of state will pay $25,185 for tuition and $36,749 with room and board included.

Out of state students will have a total tuition cost of between $100,740 and $146,996 after earning a degree.

Contact Information

  • Address: 801 East Main St. Radford, VA 24142
  • Phone: 540-831-5000
  • Website: www.radford.edu

7Emory and Henry College

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

People looking for a transformative education can rest assured that Emory and Henry College is the right choice.

Students can expect spiritual and intellectual growth at this small private school.

With just about 1,000 students attending each year, you can be positive that the classes are small and every students gets the attention needed to succeed.

With over 90 academic programs to choose from, those who are ready to make a change in society can take part in the Sociology Bachelors degree.

This four year degree is a journey of discovery and will allow for learning in classes such as:

  • Methods of Social Research
  • Transition to the World of Work
  • Social Theory
  • Environmental Sociology

Students also have the option to study abroad for their junior and senior year of college.

Take all that you have learned from Emory and Henry College and procure a career in Sociology like:

  • Archivist
  • Corrections Officer
  • Education Administrator
  • Journalist

Enrollment

Emory and Henry College has an easy application process, but there are deadlines throughout the year so make sure you know when to submit for acceptance.

The first thing you are going to do is head to the website to fill out the application, it should only take about thirty minutes if you have all of the required paperwork ready to go.

You will need to create an account to begin the process, and then you can save and come back if needed.

Along with your application, it is important to submit the following paperwork:

  • Official transcripts from high school or previous education
  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Essay
  • Letter of recommendation

You may also want to make a visit to the campus to tour the buildings and make sure the school is right for you.

Once you have completed your application, an academic advisor will reach out to you about next steps like orientation, and signing up for classes.

Fees

Students at Emory and Henry College will pay $34,500 per year to attend.

This comes out to $138,000 after four years and earning a Bachelors degree.

For those who plan to use room and board, the yearly price for that is an additional $14,360.

Other fees that may apply include:

  • Books and supplies – $1,200
  • Transportation – $1,400
  • Personal – $1,500
  • Activity fee – $200

Financial aid is available for all students as well as scholarships and grants.

Contact Information

  • Address: 30461 Garnand Dr. Emory, VA 24327
  • Phone: 276-944-4121
  • Website: www.ehc.edu

8Roanoke College

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

This private liberal arts school in Salem, Virginia is a small school on just 80 acres of campus.

Princeton Review has called Roanoke College one of its top 9% for Best Colleges and is considered one of the best schools in the state.

Students can enjoy classes of less than 20 people in the majority of programs, and that includes the Sociology Bachelors degree.

This program will last four years and requires students to not only listen in class but also do hands on research to understand society.

You will be encouraged to think critically in courses with names including:

  • Politics of Art
  • Sociology Goes to Bollywood
  • Exploring Ghana
  • Introduction to Public Health

Students can also take part in the May Term trip to Palau, a Pacific island, as well as study abroad for their junior and senior year.

Once you complete the necessary requirements for graduation at Roanoke College, take all that you have learned and find yourself a career like:

  • Labor Relations Consultant
  • Probation Officer
  • Sociologist
  • Human Resources Manager

Enrollment

There are several different types of application to choose from on Roanoake College’s website.

First year freshman, transfer students, veterans or military students, and even international students all have their own application to complete right on the admissions page.

The first thing you will need to do is create an account and submit your personal information.

Along with your application, you will need to provide the following documents:

  • Transcripts from high school or previous education
  • ACT or SAT scores

Once you have completed that you are all done and will need to wait for an academic advisor to contact you about the next steps in your journey.

Keep an eye out for deadlines throughout the year to make sure you have all of your paperwork in on time for enrollment.

Fees

Tuition per year for undergraduate students at Roanoke College is $34,820 per year.

This comes out to $139,280 after four years and earning a Bachelors degree.

With room and board included, that price goes up to $52,140 per year and $208,560 after four years.

Other fees that may occur include:

  • Activities – $644
  • Technology fee – $1,060
  • Wellness fee – $200
  • Orientation – $150

Financial aid and scholarships are available for all qualified students at this college.

Contact Information

  • Address: 221 College Lane Salem, VA 24153
  • Phone: 540-375-2500
  • Website: www.roanoke.edu

9University of Richmond

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

The University of Richmond is a well-known private school that has been in service since 1830.

This gorgeous lake front campus will have you stunned, plus the education gained here is out of this world.

Considered number 25 for Best National Liberal Arts Universities by U.S. News and World Report, the University of Virginia has proven it’s accolades time after time.

Students from all across the United States and even the world come here to enjoy the institution inside and out.

You are welcome to choose from a multitude of great programs, but those who have a desire to understand society will find their place in the Sociology Bachelors degree program.

As a four year degree, you will conduct research, talk with other students, and consider an internship.

Classes will be focused on social change, behavior of humans, and much more, including:

  • Cultural Theory
  • Global Women’s Reproductive Health
  • Race and Ethnicity in America
  • Race, Class and Schooling

There is no stopping you when you maintain good grades and finish 120 credit hours at the University of Virginia.

Then, you will be ready to procure a career in Sociology that will take you far, including roles like:

  • School Counselor
  • Social Science Statistician
  • Correctional Treatment Specialist
  • Private Investigator

Enrollment

Begin your enrollment in beautiful Richmond, Virginia by completing the online application.

This simple process will only take about thirty minutes as long as you have all the necessary paperwork ready to go.

Along with an application, please provide the following documents:

  • Answer to essay question
  • High school/college transcripts
  • Recommendation letter
  • Senior grades

International students will need to submit financial certification and the English proficiency exam results.

Once you have submitted your information, you will hear back from an academic advisor within a couple of weeks, at which time you can begin enrolling in the classes you want.

Fees

Students will pay $62,600 in tuition costs per year at this school.

However, those who want to take part in room and board will pay $78,810 per year.

Bachelors degrees are about a four year commitment, so the average student will pay between $250,400 and $315,240 upon graduation.

Other costs that may apply include:

  • Books – $1,000
  • Personal expenses – $1,400

Financial aid and scholarships are available for most students at this university.

Contact Information

  • Address: 410 Westhampton Way University of Richmond, VA 23173
  • Phone: 800-700-662
  • Website: www.richmond.edu

10Virginia Tech University

Programs Offered:
On-Campus

Last but not least on our list is Virginia Tech University, a public school in Blacksburg.

Ranked in the top 50 for Best National Schools by U.S. News and World Report, this large public school is great for those who want a true college experience.

With over 100 different undergraduate programs to choose from in nine different colleges, there is a specialty for every individual right here on campus.

Faculty members come from all around the globe and have high degrees in the courses they teach.

Plus, students are global citizens as well, coming from over 100 different countries.

There is a lot to do and see at Virginia Tech University, and one of the programs that is popular here is the Sociology Bachelors degree.

Within this degree, students are able to learn about society, individuality, human behavior, gender, race, and much more in courses like:

  • Social Inequality
  • Social Research Methods
  • Sociological Theory
  • Statistics for the Social Sciences

It will take 120 credit hours and four years to complete your degree from Virginia Tech University.

Now that you have finished your time at Virginia Tech University, you will be ready for a successful lifelong career in Sociology including:

  • Regional Planner
  • School Counselor
  • Correctional Treatment Specialist
  • Interviewer

Enrollment

Undergraduate students will find the easy application right under the admissions tab on the school’s website.

Complete the application by creating an account and submitting your personal information.

Along with your personal information, it is important to provide the following documents:

  • SAT or ACT scores
  • Transcripts

Once you have completed the application you will hear back from an academic advisor via email about the status of your enrollment.

This should take about two weeks and then you can sign up for orientation and even take a campus tour.

Fees

Students from Virginia who live on campus at Virginia Tech University will pay $37,252 per year while off campus students from Virginia will pay $12,698 per year.

Those who are from other states will pay $58,750 for on campus living and $33,310 to attend Virginia Tech University and live off campus.

This means that students from Virginia will pay between $50,792 and $149,008 upon graduation and students from other states will pay between $133,240 and $235,000 after four years of education.

Financial aid and scholarships are available for all students here.

Contact Information

  • Address: Blacksburg, VA 24061
  • Phone: 540-231-6000
  • Website: www.vt.edu

Final Thoughts

Virginia has some incredible schools to choose from no matter if you are looking for a large public school or a small private school.

This list of ten of the best schools should lead you down the path you are in search of to fulfill your college 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.