BA in Sociology
Online Degree Completion Program
Do you have a passion for studying social groups? Do you have a vision for a just society? The California State University, Chico BA in Sociology online degree completion program combines the theoretical and research traditions of sociology with hands-on practice, preparing you for a successful and rewarding career in sociology-related fields.
Join us for a virtual information session on Monday, January 13th from 6 p.m.–7 p.m.
Sociology
Sociology is the systematic study of group life, social change, and the social causes and consequences of human behavior. As a discipline, it is as broad and diverse as social life within various cultures. It combines scientific and humanistic perspectives in the study of gender, sexuality, crime, cults, family patterns, race and ethnicity, wealth and inequality, popular culture, aging, and the environment. Sociologists investigate the structure of groups, organizations and societies, and how individuals and groups interact within these contexts.
Prepare for a Degree in Sociology
Program graduates are well-rounded job candidates who benefit from a liberal arts education that concentrates on contemporary society and social problems, and helps them to develop computer, writing and research skills, learn an appreciation of ethical consideration, interpret and analyze quantitative and qualitative data, apply sociological concepts creatively in analyzing social phenomena, acquire an appreciation of the need for evidence to public policy decision-making, attain sensitivity to people from various ethnic, religious, racial, economic backgrounds, and sexual identities, understand how prejudice and discrimination are socially-created attitudes and behaviors, and critically analyze current events, as well as changes in the global economy and other major social institutions. [ View Course requirements for the BA in Sociology. ]
Department Values
- Importance of Theory—understanding the importance of and cultivating the ability
to synthesize, critically evaluate, draw upon, and apply sociological theory to better understand the complexity of any social issue or phenomena. - Appreciation of Culture Diversity—understanding and appreciating the intersectionalities and complexities of differences among people, such as those based on race, ethnicity, ability, age, class, culture, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, regional and national origin, religion, primary language, physical appearance, and sexuality, and how these affect people’s experiences and life chances.
- Understanding Inequality—understanding both the structural and interpersonal bases of social inequality, the impact of inequality on lives of individuals and groups, and the ramifications for different groups of people with regard to proposed solutions.
- Development of a Sociological Imagination—understanding the interplay between micro and macro social forces by identifying processes of social control and how they shape our social institutions and personal lives, as well as articulating how social institutions impact our everyday lives.
- Use of Empirical Evidence—understanding the proper processes, collection, analysis, and dissemination of data, and how data can be both used and misused in understanding social phenomena and implementing solutions to social problems.
Application Process
Students who meet Chico State admission requirements are eligible to apply to the Sociology Online program.
Application Periods:
Fall '25 Admission: Applications are OPEN!
Spring '26 Admission: Applications open August 1, 2025
Complete the Request for Information form in the sidebar for additional application and program information and to be notified about online information sessions.
View complete application and admissions information.
Campus Advising & Resources
Sociology Program Academic Advising
Valantina Rashoo
Chico State Admissions
http://www.csuchico.edu/admissions
800-542-4426 or 530-898-4428
Transferring courses to CSU, Chico
http://www.assist.org