Sociology
Bachelor of Science
The science of society
The Bachelor of Science in sociology program provides you with the tools to explore how communities work, how people connect and what drives change in the world around you. Through the study of pressing social challenges — such as inequality, climate change, aging, political conflict—you’ll gain new perspectives on the complexities of the modern world while also imagining possibilities for more just and equitable futures.
Coursework will introduce you to the core concepts, theories and research methods of sociology while allowing you to explore a wide range of specialized topics. As a sociology major, you may take courses in environmental sociology, social inequality, political sociology, science in society, aging, social change, communities and more. This flexibility allows you to tailor the degree to your own academic and professional interests while deepening your understanding of social processes.
A sociology degree helps you think critically, analyze data and understand complex social issues from a scientific perspective. You’ll build skills valued in careers like education, public policy, social services, law, health care, community development and more.
Highlights from the Bachelor of Science in sociology:
- Internships with local, state and federal agencies and non-profit organizations.
- Participating in research projects with faculty members, including projects on climate change, science, gun violence, public health, human rights, aging, gender-based violence, gender and mobility, Global South and other contemporary social issues.
- Experiential learning with field trips, action projects and practitioners.
Overview
Create a better world
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
1,637 in ID, WA, OR, MT and HIPotential careers and mid-career salaries
- Chief Sustainability Officers • Chief Executives
$193,281 - Regulatory Affairs Managers • Compliance Managers • Loss Prevention Managers • Wind Energy Operations Managers • Wind Energy Development Managers • Brownfield Redevelopment Specialists and Site Managers
$97,250 - Social and Community Service Managers
$84,050 - Fraud Examiners, Investigators and Analysts
$76,051 - Sociologists
$94,825
* 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
- Mentorship responsive to student interests and career goals
- One-on-one directed study courses with professors
Internships
- Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute (PCEI)
- 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
- Alternatives to Violence on the Palouse (ATVP)
- Latah Recovery Center
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.