ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY · CANADA
Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Concentration
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- 3-year BA degreeProgram Length
- OnlineStudy Mode
- Sociology ConcentrationSpecialization
- 60 creditsMinimum for previous degree holders
- 90 credits totalProgram Credits
- 30 creditsResidency Requirement at AU
The Bachelor of Arts (3-year) with a Sociology Concentration at Athabasca University is designed to enhance your critical and creative thinking through a diverse range of social, political, and cultural studies. This program aims to broaden your perspective on local and global issues, encourage community engagement, and prepare you for lifelong learning and various career paths. It is a well-regarded qualification in Canada and the United States. The Sociology Concentration specifically introduces students to foundational sociological theories and research methods. You will explore how these skills are applied to contemporary issues such as crime, family studies, environmental concerns, health, technology, and Canadian society. This specialization will encourage you to reflect on your own experiences and critically analyze pressing social and global challenges.
Curriculum
The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology Concentration requires a total of 90 credits. This includes core courses in sociology and social sciences, along with elective courses to provide a broad understanding of the field.
- Overall Program Structure
- Minimum credits at senior (300 or 400) level
- Minimum credits in the concentration
- Senior-level credits in the concentration
- Credits in Arts (Humanities and Social Science)
- Credits in Humanities
- Credits in Social Science
- Credits in Science
- Maximum credits in any one discipline
- Maximum Applied Studies and/or Science credits
- Maximum credits at junior (200) level
- Maximum credits at preparatory (100) level
- Maximum junior level credits in one discipline
- Introduction to Sociology ISOCI 287
- Introduction to Sociology II – Social MovementsSOCI 288
- Classical Sociological Theory and Its Relevance TodaySOCI 335
- Modern Sociological Theory in the 20th Century: the Age of Grand TheorySOCI 337
- Research Methods in the Social SciencesSOSC 366
- Sociology Concentration Electives (minimum)
Careers
A Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors. The program's focus on critical thinking, research skills, and understanding social dynamics is highly valued by employers.
- Management
- Human Resource Development
- Marketing
- Education
- Nursing
- Local Government
- Non-Government Organizations (NGOs)
- Social Work
- Counselling
- Law Enforcement
- Urban Planning
- Community Development
- Family and Community Services
Frequently asked questions
- What are the total credit requirements for the Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration?
- The Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration requires a total of 90 credits. This includes core sociology and social science courses, along with electives.
- How long does the Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration take to complete?
- This is a 3-year Bachelor of Arts degree program. Athabasca University offers flexible online learning, allowing you to study at your own pace.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees are calculated on a per-credit or per-course basis. Students are advised to consult the Athabasca University website for the most current and detailed fee information, as fees are subject to annual change.
- How do I demonstrate English language proficiency for this program?
- You must meet the English writing skills requirement by holding credit in ENGL 255 or achieving a B- (70%) or better in an AU English course above the 100 level. If English is not your first language, you may consider the English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP).
- What are some potential career paths after completing this degree?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as management, human resources, marketing, education, social work, and urban planning. The program develops valuable critical thinking and research skills.
- Are there any specific residency requirements for this program?
- Yes, there is a residency requirement of 30 credits at Athabasca University. If you have a previous degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 60 credits.
Entry requirements
Standard AdmissionStudents without a previous degree must meet standard university admission requirements. Students holding a previous degree must enrol in the Bachelor of Arts (4-year) program and follow second undergraduate degree requirements, which require a minimum of 60 credits.
Athabasca University English course (ENGL 255)Credit in ENGL 255, or a grade of B- (70%) or better in an Athabasca University English course above the preparatory (100) level, or credit for an English course with a grade of B- or better.
English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP)Students who are not native English speakers and need to improve their English skills can take the English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP) courses. A self-assessment test is required before enrolling in ELPP.
Students are strongly encouraged to register in ENGL 255 early in their program. The regulations for this program are effective from September 1, 2025.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Athabasca University website for the most current international tuition fees. Fees are subject to change annually.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Athabasca University website for the most current domestic tuition fees. Fees are subject to change annually.
LivingNo specific living cost estimates are provided by Athabasca University as it is an online institution. Students should budget for their personal living expenses based on their location.
Tuition fees are typically calculated on a per-credit or per-course basis. Students are advised to consult the university's Finance section for detailed and up-to-date expense information.
How to apply
1. Review Admission RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the general admission criteria and specific program requirements for the Bachelor of Arts, Sociology Concentration. If you have a previous degree, note the specific requirements for second undergraduate degrees.
2. Meet English Language ProficiencyEnsure you meet the English writing skills requirement by holding credit in ENGL 255 (or equivalent), or achieving a B- (70%) or better in an AU English course above the 100 level. If English is not your first language, consider the English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP) after taking the online self-assessment test.
3. Apply for AdmissionSubmit your application for admission to the university. Prospective students who are not enrolled in an AU degree, diploma, or certificate program (e.g., for ELPP) may register as unclassified students.
4. Register for CoursesOnce admitted, you can register for courses. Utilize the online program plans and academic advising services to select courses that fulfill your program requirements.
5. Consider Transfer Credit/Prior LearningIf you have previous academic credits or relevant prior learning, explore the options for evaluations and transfer credit or Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) to potentially reduce your course load, though PLAR credits are capped at 6 for this program.
Frequently asked questions
What are the total credit requirements for the Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration?
+
The Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration requires a total of 90 credits. This includes core sociology and social science courses, along with electives.
How long does the Bachelor of Arts with a Sociology Concentration take to complete?
+
This is a 3-year Bachelor of Arts degree program. Athabasca University offers flexible online learning, allowing you to study at your own pace.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees are calculated on a per-credit or per-course basis. Students are advised to consult the Athabasca University website for the most current and detailed fee information, as fees are subject to annual change.
How do I demonstrate English language proficiency for this program?
+
You must meet the English writing skills requirement by holding credit in ENGL 255 or achieving a B- (70%) or better in an AU English course above the 100 level. If English is not your first language, you may consider the English Language Proficiency Program (ELPP).
What are some potential career paths after completing this degree?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in areas such as management, human resources, marketing, education, social work, and urban planning. The program develops valuable critical thinking and research skills.
Are there any specific residency requirements for this program?
+
Yes, there is a residency requirement of 30 credits at Athabasca University. If you have a previous degree, you will need to complete a minimum of 60 credits.