Sociology

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive exploration of human social behavior, social structures, and societal change. This program provides students with a solid foundation in sociological theories, research methods, and critical thinking skills necessary to analyze complex social issues. Through a combination of coursework, hands-on research opportunities, and engaging discussions, students gain a deep understanding of diverse social phenomena, including race, class, gender, deviance, and social institutions such as family, education, and government.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with the analytical skills needed to interpret social data and to apply sociological perspectives to real-world problems. Core courses cover topics such as social theory, research methods, statistics, and the sociology of various social institutions. Electives allow students to specialize in areas like urban sociology, social justice, healthcare, or environmental sociology, tailoring their education to their interests and career goals.

Beyond classroom instruction, students have opportunities to participate in research projects, internships, and community engagement programs, providing practical experience and professional development. Faculty members are active researchers and dedicated educators committed to mentoring students and fostering critical inquiry. This program prepares graduates for diverse careers in social services, public policy, research, community organizing, and further graduate study.

NC State's Sociology program emphasizes the development of both qualitative and quantitative research skills, essential for understanding and addressing societal challenges. Graduates emerge with a broad perspective on social issues, strong communication skills, and an understanding of cultural diversity. With a robust academic environment and numerous resources, students are encouraged to become informed, active citizens capable of promoting positive social change. Whether pursuing careers in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or private sector industries, students are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully in various professional contexts related to social analysis and advocacy.

A complete application includes:

• application submitted through the Common Application or the Coalition Application
• a non-refundable $100 application fee.  International applicants do not qualify for fee waivers.
• proof of English proficiency
• official secondary school transcripts and external examination results (Records not issued in English must be accompanied by an English translation that is certified by an appropriate school official, official translator, or U.S. embassy or consulate official.)
• Certificate of Financial Responsibility (only required for students needing F-1 and J-1 visas)
• online portfolio and essay (required for studio-based major programs)

Letters of Recommendation are not required and not recommended. The College Report, Secondary School Final Report, and Mid-term Report on the Common Application are not required and not recommended.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at North Carolina State University offers a comprehensive financial plan to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for undergraduate programs vary depending on residency status. For in-state students, the annual tuition is approximately $9,000, while out-of-state students pay around $29,000 per year. These costs cover coursework, access to university facilities, and academic resources. In addition to tuition, students should budget for mandatory fees, including student activity fees, technology fees, and health services fees, which collectively amount to about $1,500 annually.

Many students finance their education through a combination of federal and state financial aid programs. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application used to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The federal Pell Grant, available to eligible undergraduate students, can provide up to $7,395 annually to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Stafford loans, both subsidized and unsubsidized, offer low-interest borrowing options for students to cover education expenses not met by grants and scholarships. North Carolina State University also participates in institutional financial aid programs, providing scholarships based on academic achievement, leadership, and financial need.

Students are encouraged to explore external scholarships from private organizations, community foundations, and professional associations related to sociology and social sciences. Many students also engage in part-time employment on or near campus to supplement their income. The university offers guidance and resources for financial planning, including budgeting workshops and counseling.

Living expenses, which are not included in tuition, are an important consideration in the total cost of attendance. On-campus housing costs range from approximately $8,000 to $10,000 per academic year, depending on the residence hall and meal plan selected. Off-campus housing costs vary widely but typically range from $600 to $1,200 per month. Students should also budget for books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses, which collectively can amount to an additional $2,500 to $4,000 annually.

Overall, financing a Sociology degree at North Carolina State University involves a combination of personal investment, government aid, institutional scholarships, and potentially private funding. The university's dedicated financial aid office provides support and guidance to help students maximize available resources and create a manageable financial plan for their education.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at North Carolina State University offers students a comprehensive understanding of social behavior, societal structures, and the dynamic processes that shape human interactions. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and empirical research methods, preparing graduates for diverse careers in industries such as social services, public policy, research, and community development. Through coursework in social theory, research methods, and various specialized areas like race and ethnicity, gender, education, and criminology, students develop a nuanced perspective on social issues. The curriculum encourages active engagement with current social challenges, integrating quantitative and qualitative research techniques.

Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including laboratories and data analysis software, which support hands-on research projects. The program's faculty are renowned scholars and practitioners committed to mentorship and innovative research, fostering a stimulating academic environment. Practical experience is further gained through internships, community-based projects, and study abroad opportunities, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The department also hosts seminars, guest lectures, and workshops that facilitate professional development and networking within the field of sociology.

North Carolina State University’s location in the Research Triangle Park provides abundant opportunities for collaborations with organizations and government agencies engaged in social research and community initiatives. The Sociology major undergraduate degree is designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their electives to specific interests, whether they lie in policy analysis, social justice, or data science. Upon graduation, students are well-equipped to pursue graduate studies or enter the workforce directly, supporting social change and policy reform efforts. Overall, the Sociology program at NC State emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, critical inquiry, and practical application, preparing students for meaningful contributions to society and a wide array of professional paths.