Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs) 2025

Badge for CHEAPEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN SOCIOLOGY
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

We rank the most affordable online PhD programs in sociology.

Key Takeaways

  • The average cost of college tuition for a PhD program is $96,800 per year, but affordable PhD in sociology programs range between $280 and $1,200 per credit hour.

  • A great way to keep tuition costs low is to choose a college in your own state, because out-of-state tuition can often be double or triple in-state tuition rates.

  • An affordable online sociology program also depends on the type of school you attend, and the amount of financial aid you receive.

Top 10 Affordable Online PhD Degree in Sociology Programs in 2025

  1. Purdue University
    +7
  2. University of Iowa
    +8
  3. University of Arizona
    +8
  4. University of Georgia
    +10
  5. University of Missouri
    +7
  6. Arizona State University
    –1
  7. University at Buffalo
    –3
  8. Louisiana State University
    –6
  9. Northeastern University
    +6
  10. Colorado State University
    –1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the ranking of the top ten affordable online PhD degree in sociology programs saw a considerable amount of movement. The University of Georgia saw the most growth, raising ten ranking positions. This was due to the university expanding research opportunities in areas such as social inequality, public policy, and environmental sociology, while providing access to new data analysis tools and interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments. UGA has also established partnerships with local and national organizations, providing PhD students with opportunities for applied research and community-based projects.

Featured Programs

15 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorates

The affordable doctoral degrees in sociology in our ranking range between $280 and $1,200 per credit hour.

  1. #1

    Purdue University

    West Lafayette , IN
    #1 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #11 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #15 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #16 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    53%

    Graduation

    83%

    Student body

    55K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1335/30

    What is Purdue University known for?

    Purdue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Purdue University is renowned for its contributions to STEM and other technical fields. The university focuses its attention on creating enriching educational experiences, offering affordable traditional and non-traditional degree programs.

    Purdue’s PhD in Sociology costs only $347.85 per credit hour in-state and $948.30 out-of-state. This is one of the most cost-effective programs for students who want tailored learning in the sociology discipline.

    Students can choose courses from the program’s seven areas of concentration, including Sociology of Religion, Social Inequality: Class, Gender, Race/Ethnicity, and Sexuality, Social Movements and Political Science/Sociology, and many more.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Purdue University

    The rigorous academic programs and vast array of majors to choose from for a fraction of the price of attending a prestigious private university.

    Purdue University is great for students who:

    Are academically aggressive, involved, passionate about a cause or pastime, and open-minded.

    Purdue University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Aren’t interested in attending a culturally diverse university.

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  2. #2

    University of Iowa

    Iowa City , IA
    #2 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #19 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #19 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    86%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/25

    What is University of Iowa known for?

    University of Iowa’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Iowa is the oldest higher education institution in the state and a member of the Association of American Universities. University of Iowa provides top-notch undergraduate, graduate, and professional in-person and online doctoral degrees in various subjects and is renowned for its excellence in the arts and sciences.

    University of Iowa’s PhD in Sociology is among the cheapest, with base tuition and fees of $12,013 for residents and $31,511 for non-residents. The degree comes with a well-rounded bundle of courses, including research training, writing improvement, and internships aimed at equipping graduates with the qualifications for employment in social service, criminal justice, and other fields.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about The University of Iowa

    The chance it gives undergraduates to participate in research and creative endeavors from the Iowa Center for Research.

    The University of Iowa is best for students who:

    Are friendly and eager to network to meet new people and form friendships.

    The University of Iowa might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not enjoy large classes or a school with a lively party culture.

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  3. #3

    University of Arizona

    Tucson , AZ
    #3 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #18 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #20 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #20 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    54K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1255/25

    What is University of Arizona known for?

    University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Arizona is one of the largest land-grant universities in the U.S., offering a top-notch education at an affordable price. In addition to being one of the best-value universities, University of Arizona also provides one of the most vibrant campus scenes.

    University of Arizona’s PhD in Sociology has base tuition costs of $14,000 and $34,000 for in-state and out-of-state students respectively. This professional degree prepares students for careers in sociology research, post-secondary education, and organizational leadership. Students will develop professional experience outside of the classroom by participating in research on their own and in collaboration with professors.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3-5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about the University of Arizona

    The endless recreational activities at the University of Arizona.

    The University of Arizona is great for students who:

    Want to be involved in Greek life.

    The University of Arizona might not be the best fit for students who:

    Thrive in small class sizes.

    Compare school
    4. woman working on a laptop

  5. #4

    University of Georgia

    Athens , GA
    #14 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #1 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2025 #2 Best Colleges in Georgia 2025 #2 Best Research Universities in Georgia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    43%

    Graduation

    88%

    Student body

    44K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1320/29

    What is University of Georgia known for?

    University of Georgia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Georgia, the biggest public research university in the state, offers state-of-the-art research, cultural, and athletic buildings. Occupying a significant portion of Athens-Clarke County’s terrain, the University of Georgia has been identified as an R1 Doctoral University for its very high research activity.

    UGA’s affordable PhD in Sociology has in-state and out-of-state per credit hour costs of $363 and $1,029 respectively. Unlike other PhDs, this degree program is for a bachelor’s degree graduate yet to earn an MA in sociology degree. The program offers rigorous research methodology, theory, and analytical tools training.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion time: 7 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about the University of Georgia

    The pool of opportunities to network and party.

    The University of Georgia is great for students who:

    Want a rigorous, worthwhile educational experience.

    The University of Georgia might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a small and quiet environment.

    Compare school
  6. #5

    University of Missouri

    Columbia , MO
    #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2025 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2025 #2 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    75%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1240/26

    What is University of Missouri known for?

    University of Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Missouri plays a special and significant role in the state’s economic development through teaching, research, service, and other activities. The university system includes a comprehensive network of business and technology development centers and more.

    Mizzou’s PhD in Sociology costs $435.30 per credit hour. The program equips researchers with theoretical, methodological, and practical expertise. Graduates can undertake research, discuss findings, and publish their own work.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 3-5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about the University of Missouri

    The vibrant Greek life.

    The University of Missouri is great for students who:

    Want to have an active social life.

    The University of Missouri might not be the best fit for students who:

    May struggle to balance social life and studies.

    Compare school
    7. two man working on a computer
  8. #6

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    What is Arizona State University known for?

    Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    ASU is one of the country’s top-ranking universities, offering hundreds of degrees for students in every conceivable discipline. On top of providing cutting-edge degree programs, ASU also offers some of the best and most generous financial aid packages.

    ASU’s traditional PhD in Sociology has a base tuition fee of $12,014. This online doctoral program offers advanced training in theory and research techniques. It focuses on topics related to inequality, law, and society.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 3-5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Arizona State University

    The countless majors available in nearly every academic discipline.

    Arizona State University is great for students who:

    Can study independently and are willing to attend lectures with over 500 students.

    Arizona State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer a more centralized or tight-knit college community.

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  9. #7

    University at Buffalo

    Buffalo , NY
    #3 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #10 Best Colleges in New York 2024 #4 Best Online Master’s in Counseling 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    36K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1285/28

    What is University at Buffalo known for?

    University at Buffalo’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University at Buffalo is a large campus with a great deal of opportunity for academic and extracurricular involvement. It’s also one of the cheapest universities in the U.S., delivering high-quality education at an affordable cost. The University at Buffalo is also a member of the Association of American Universities.

    At only $471.00 per credit hour, students can enroll in a traditional PhD in Sociology and benefit from intimate, collaborative interactions with faculty. This sociology online doctorate presents a special mix of rigorous academics and faculty guidance, providing students with opportunities to conduct meaningful independent research.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about the University at Buffalo

    The diverse student populations and longstanding traditions.

    The University at Buffalo is great for students who:

    Thrive in a big city and a large campus.

    The University at Buffalo might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are very conservative and prefer small class sizes.

    Compare school
  10. #8

    Louisiana State University

    Baton Rouge , LA
    #12 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Louisiana 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Louisiana 2024 #2 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    76%

    Graduation

    70%

    Student body

    39K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/25

    What is Louisiana State University known for?

    Louisiana State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Louisiana State University is a flagship university with a rich culture and a large educational community. LSU is committed to positively impacting lives through education, research, and involvement in the community.

    LSU offers an affordable traditional PhD in Sociology, costing only $4,370.30 per 9 credit hours. The program prepares sociology students for careers that combine research methods and teaching in one or more sociology subfields. Students are expected to produce their own research.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion time: 5-6 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Louisiana State University

    It’s the only university in the state identified as an R1: Doctoral University for its Very High Research Activity.

    Louisiana State University is great for students who:

    Are willing to put in extra work for extracurricular activities.

    Louisiana State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Do not thrive in a fast-paced environment.

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    11. girl with glasses on a laptop
  12. #9

    Northeastern University

    Boston , MA
    #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2025 #9 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts #3 Best Online MBA Programs in Massachusetts
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    38K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1495/34

    What is Northeastern University known for?

    Northeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Northeastern University is a renowned research institution and is extremely difficult and demanding. It boasts illustrious faculty members who are recognized experts in their professions. Before graduating, students accumulate a significant amount of work experience.

    NEU’s PhD in Sociology is one of the cheapest sociology doctorates from a private university. It only costs 1,300 per credit hour. NEU hosts various annual events for sociology doctorates to help enhance their teaching, academic and grant writing, and media relations. Additionally, students have higher chances of landing funded research through faculty and partner institutions.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Northeastern University

    The small-sized cohort classes that give students a chance to develop close working ties with instructors.

    Northeastern University is great for students who:

    Wish to attend college in the heart of a big city.

    Northeastern University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want a peaceful and quiet campus.

    Compare school
  13. #10

    Colorado State University

    Fort Collins , CO
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #2 Best Public Colleges in Colorado 2025 #3 Best Colleges in Colorado 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Acceptance

    91%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1185/26

    What is Colorado State University known for?

    Colorado State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Colorado State University is a growing school built on an increasingly diverse student body and a highly productive faculty. CSU is recognized as one of the country’s best public research universities, especially at its highly affordable cost.

    CSU’s PhD in Sociology has in-state and out-of-state per credit hour costs of $601.90 and $1,475.80 respectively.

    This degree program equips candidates with professional competence in sociological theory, research techniques, social change, and other topics relating to the social sciences. Faculty of the program do practical work and policy research on the causes and effects of social change on people, communities, and countries on a national and worldwide level.

    • Required Credits: 62
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Colorado State University

    A tradition of close interaction and collaboration between students and faculty.

    Colorado State University is great for students who:

    Can handle the stress of a highly competitive academic environment.

    Colorado State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Prefer small class sizes and need constant individualized attention from their professors.

    Compare school
    14. woman on a video call
  14. #11

    University of North Texas

    Denton , TX
    #8 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2025 #5 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Texas 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $11K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    59%

    Student body

    49K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1120/23

    What is University of North Texas known for?

    University of North Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    UNT is one of the most prominent public research universities in the US. The university offers hundreds of online and traditional degree programs at very affordable costs.

    The online Sociology PhD at UNT costs $4,226.08 per 9 credit hours.

    Students use applied sociological research methods and viewpoints of human relationships and human behavior as core parts of social science to solve global issues. Students can focus on social stratification, comparative and global sociology, health, sickness, and aging.

    • Required Credits: 42
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of North Texas

    Their renowned faculty, culture and diversity, as well as a top-notch curriculum.

    The University of North Texas is great for students who:

    Want to have a high-quality education and live in a small town.

    The University of North Texas might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want training for a simple technical job.

    Compare school
  16. #12

    University at Albany, SUNY

    Albany , NY
    #8 Best Public Colleges in New York 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2025 #2 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York #5 Best Online Colleges in New York 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    68%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1220/26

    What is University at Albany, SUNY known for?

    University at Albany, SUNY’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University at Albany has a reputation for excellence, and a track record for preparing its graduates to create positive change in the real world.

    Students gain access to internships and career training in dozens of sectors, including many Fortune 500 companies.

    University of Albany’s traditional PhD in Sociology has a per credit hour cost of $608.72 for in-state students and $1,100.72 for out-of-state students. This degree helps students learn more about social theory, as well as the structure of human society using quantitative and qualitative data analysis and methods. Sociology graduates can work in academia, research, government, or business.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 3 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about the University at Albany

    The University of Albany provides its students with excellent research facilities and resources.

    The University at Albany is great for students who:

    Are seeking a diverse community, welcoming campus, and a ton of school spirit.

    The University at Albany might not be the best fit for students who:

    Lack motivation and are unprepared for a demanding academic program.

    Compare school
  17. #13

    Utah State University

    Logan , UT
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Utah 2024 #3 Best Grad Schools in Utah 2025 #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Utah 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    54%

    Student body

    33K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/23

    What is Utah State University known for?

    Utah State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Utah State University is a thriving, multi-campus research institution renowned worldwide for its intellectual and technological leadership. Additionally, USU offers some of the most affordable degree programs.

    USU’s Doctorate of Sociology costs only $827.32 per credit hour, which makes it very affordable for many working professionals.

    Candidates must focus on one primary specialist area and pass a comprehensive written examination to be admitted to this sociology degree program. Students will typically also complete additional coursework in a second topic as well as training in sociological theory and techniques as part of their core courses.

    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion time: 4-5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Utah State University

    The great academic programs, dedicated faculty, and renowned professors.

    Utah State University is great for students who:

    Appreciate living in small towns.

    Utah State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Want to party. USU is a dry campus.

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  18. #14

    Oklahoma State University–Stillwater

    Stillwater , OK
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Oklahoma 2024 #2 Cheapest Colleges in Oklahoma 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Oklahoma 2024 #3 Best Colleges in Oklahoma 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    71%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    27K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1130/23

    What is Oklahoma State University–Stillwater known for?

    Oklahoma State University–Stillwater’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Oklahoma State University is among the world’s largest global student unions for higher education. Additionally, OSU is a Carnegie R1 research university and one of the most affordable of its division.

    OSU offers one of the cheapest sociology graduate programs, with in-state and out-of-state per credit hour costs of $233.80 and $879.75 respectively. OSU’s PhD in Sociology is a traditional degree program. Students will have two comprehensive exams in Environmental Sociology, Social Movements, Crime and Deviance, Social Inequality, and Social Psychology.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion time: 4 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Oklahoma State University

    The career services that provide assistance with creating resumes, mock interviews, and advice on salary negotiations.

    Oklahoma State University is great for students who:

    Thrive in a large and diverse campus.

    Oklahoma State University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are used to living in large cities with numerous opportunities for nightlife.

    Compare school
  20. #15

    Texas Woman's University

    Denton , TX
    #7 Most Affordable Online Master's of Speech Pathology Programs #17 Top 20 Most Affordable Online Master's of Nursing Programs 2025 #17 20 Fastest Accelerated Online English Doctorates (PhDs) 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    48%

    Student body

    20K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1035/20

    What is Texas Woman's University known for?

    Texas Woman's University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Texas Woman’s University, despite its name, accepts male students. TWU has expanded from a tiny institution to a large university with broad academic programs available.

    TWU’s PhD in Sociology is among the cheapest of its kind, with per credit hour costs of $284.00 and $692.00 for in-state and out-of-state students respectively. This is also one of the most flexible traditional campus degrees. The program focuses on sociology theory and research methods.

    • Required Credits: 72
    • Completion time: 5 years
    • Format: On-campus

    What we love about Texas Woman’s University

    The beautiful and well-kept campus.

    Texas Woman’s University is great for students who:

    Thrive in diversity.

    Texas Woman’s University might not be the best fit for students who:

    Are not accepting of cultural differences.

    Compare school

Career Outlook for Students with Sociology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Sociology

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $14,332
  • Avg. Expenses*: $19,472
  • Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $83,850
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 9 years
  • Job Growth: 5.74%
  • Number of Jobs: 1,339,400
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other5.75%$133,560
Sociologists9.09%$101,770
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary3.11%$82,670
Social Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary, All Other2.46%$77,750
Social Science Research Assistants6.40%$56,400

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Managers, All Other$133,560
Sociologists$101,770
Sociology Teachers, Postsecondary$82,670
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

Sociology is an essential social science discipline. Sociology PhD programs are geared toward students who plan to conduct research or provide post-secondary education in the social sciences.

This means that prospective students considering a doctorate in sociology degree program have access to a great deal of opportunity. However, a traditional PhD in sociology can also be expensive.

Fortunately, some online doctoral degrees now make it possible for graduate students to earn an affordable doctoral degree in sociology. The online sociology PhD program is still relatively rare compared to on-campus programs so we’ve included both for your consideration.

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Cost of an Online PhD in Sociology

Online PhDs in this field cost an average of $96,800. Per credit hour costs for these degrees can be as low as $280 and go as high as $2,500. Several factors can affect a doctoral program’s cost, including institution type, program delivery, length, location, and residency.

Institution Type

Private colleges have an average graduate tuition fee of $26,597, whereas public colleges and universities have an average tuition of only $11,673.

The type of school matters if you are interested in keeping costs as low as possible!

However, there may be instances when a private college can end up being cheaper than a public university. Private colleges can have substantial endowment assets, and may have more opportunities to offer grants and scholarships and may even provide larger tuition discounts to qualifying students.

Program Delivery

Traditional colleges can be more expensive than online education for several reasons.

Graduate students pursuing their degree online can usually bypass some of the on-campus fees that traditional students pay including costs to live on campus, commuting costs, costs for parking, etc.

On-campus students may also pay more for physical course materials whereas online students may access materials through online libraries and databases.

That said, many accredited online college programs do charge a premium for access to the Learning Management Systems that facilitate online learning.

Program Length

One way to ensure the affordability of your sociology program is to complete your degree in the minimum time allotted. This is typically a period of 2-3 years.

Graduate students who complete degree requirements beyond the program’s expected time frame experience a substantial tuition fee increase. Many colleges also charge students higher per credit costs if they enroll in fewer courses each semester.

Location

State taxes, not federal ones, are used to pay for higher education. This means that tuition varies depending on where one is located and affects how much it costs to attend college.

Colleges in bustling cities tend to cost more than colleges in suburban and rural areas due to the generally higher cost of living in these settings.

Residency

A public, four-year university’s average in-state student tuition and fees for 2021–2022 were $10,740. An out-of-state student’s average tuition and fees at a public university were $27,560, nearly three times the in-state sticker price.

Financial Aid

If affordability is a particular concern, and it is making you reluctant to pursue a PhD in sociology program, you may be able to take advantage of financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and loans.

For more information on financial aid, visit the Federal Student Aid website. It is especially important that you choose an online program that is accredited in order to qualify for financial aid.

Assistantships

Many schools offering an online PhD in sociology also have assistantship opportunities for their graduate students. Assistantships may give teaching opportunities in exchange for tuition waivers and a stipend. Each school is different, so you will need to check into the online sociology doctoral degrees programs you are interested in.

Bottom Line: Affordable online doctoral degree programs in sociology are possible when you factor in things like the type of school you attend, in-state tuition, financial aid, grants, and assistantships.

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