Sociology
Bachelor of Arts
The science of society
The Bachelor of Arts in sociology at U of I gives you the tools to understand how societies work, how people connect and how change happens. You’ll dig into some of today’s biggest challenges — like inequality, climate change, aging and political conflict — to uncover what drives them and explore how to build a more just and equitable future.
In this program, you’ll study the core ideas, theories and research methods that define sociology while shaping your degree around what interests you most. Explore classes in environmental sociology, political movements, social inequality, science in society, community change and more. With flexible course options, you can design a path that fits your goals and helps you make sense of the world around you.
A sociology degree from University of Idaho builds practical skills you can use anywhere — critical thinking, data analysis and the ability to look at complex issues from multiple angles. Graduates are prepared for meaningful careers in education, public policy, social services, law, health care, community development and many other fields where understanding people and systems makes all the difference.
Highlights from the Bachelor of Arts in sociology:
- Internships with local, state and federal agencies and non-profit organizations.
- Participating in research projects with faculty mentors, including projects on climate change, science, gun violence, public health, aging, gender-based violence, gender and mobility, Global South and other contemporary social issues.
- Experiential learning with field trips, action projects and practitioners.
Overview
Understanding social behavior
Degree fit
This program could be a good fit if you:
- Are curious about the world around you
- Like interacting with different people and hearing their experiences
- Seek to understand different perspectives on how societies function
- Want to explore current social issues such as political division, violence, inequality, community cooperation and more
- Desire a career in public health, public policy, social work or social services
- Have strong writing and communication skills
- Enjoy research
- Want to explore the possibilities of a better world
Career outcomes
Current job openings
1,570 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers
$97,250 - Sociologists
$94,825 - Postsecondary Sociology Teachers • Postsecondary Area, Ethnic, and Cultural Studies Teachers • Postsecondary Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers
$82,694 - Social and Community Service Managers
$84,050 - Social Science Research Assistants
$51,325
* Career data provided by Lightcast.
Financial aid and scholarship opportunities
Financial aid
Paying for college can feel overwhelming, but U of I’s Financial Aid Office is here to help. Our experienced financial aid counselors can assist you in exploring financial aid options, making informed financial decisions and addressing common concerns.
To maximize aid and scholarship possibilities, be sure to complete your FAFSA. For information on FAFSA deadlines and answers to common questions, visit the University of Idaho FAFSA website.
Plan ahead — estimate your cost of attendance with U of I’s Cost Calculator.
Scholarships
Unlock scholarship opportunities at University of Idaho! When you apply to U of I, you're automatically considered for scholarships. We also offer a variety of scholarships based on experience, background and academic programs that you can apply for to help pay for college.
Explore available scholarships on our Scholarships website.
Clubs and involvement opportunities
Hands on learning
- Many courses offer options for action projects
- Professors work with students on research and support participation in professional conferences
- Experiential learning trips around the U.S. and the world
- One-on-one directed study courses with professors
- Mentorship responsive to student interests and career goals
Internships
- Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute (PCEI)
- Alternatives to Violence on the Palouse (ATVP)
- Latah Recovery Center
- Sojourners Alliance
- Inland Oasis
- Chas Health
- U of I Violence Prevention
- U of I Center for Disabilities and Human Development (CDHD)
- Public Health – North-Central Idaho
Application information
Undergraduate applications open each September and admissions are processed on a rolling basis. Qualified students are admitted and considered for scholarships and financial aid as applications are received.
Explore admission requirements and apply on our Admissions website.