Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorate Programs (PhDs)
We rank the most affordable online PhD programs in sociology.
Top 10 Affordable Online PhD Degree in Sociology Programs
- University of North Texas 26 to 1
- Louisiana State University 22 to 1
- Utah State University 19 to 1
- Texas Woman's University 19 to 1
- University at Albany, SUNY 19 to 1
- University of Missouri 18 to 1
- Arizona State University 18 to 1
- University of Georgia 17 to 1
- University of Iowa 16 to 1
- Colorado State University 16 to 1
- Northeastern University $57,592
- University of Arizona $10,990
- Arizona State University $10,710
- University of Missouri $10,017
- University of Georgia $9,790
- Purdue University $9,718
- University of Iowa $8,356
- Utah State University $8,042
- Northeastern University $25,801
- University of Arizona $12,106
- Arizona State University $11,720
- University at Buffalo $11,310
- University at Albany, SUNY $11,310
- Colorado State University $10,834
- University of Iowa $10,432
- University of Missouri $9,950
- Purdue University $9,718
- Purdue University 13 to 1
- University at Buffalo 14 to 1
- Northeastern University 14 to 1
- University of Arizona 15 to 1
- University of Iowa 16 to 1
- Colorado State University 16 to 1
- University of Georgia 17 to 1
- University of Missouri 18 to 1
- Arizona State University 18 to 1
- Utah State University 19 to 1
- Texas Woman's University $5,616
- University at Buffalo $7,070
- Utah State University $8,042
- University of Iowa $8,356
- Purdue University $9,718
- University of Georgia $9,790
- Texas Woman's University $5,112
- Utah State University $6,534
- University of Georgia $8,878
- Purdue University $9,718
- University of Missouri $9,950
- University of Iowa $10,432
- Colorado State University $10,834
- University at Buffalo $11,310
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.
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.
Featured Programs
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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15 Most Affordable Online Sociology Doctorates
The affordable doctoral degrees in sociology in our ranking range between $280 and $1,200 per credit hour.
Sociologists Salaries by Percentile in the U.S.
The following graph depicts the average salaries of Sociologists for each percentile in the U.S.
Source: U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS
SVG Attribution: Wikipedia
- #6 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #6 Best Public Colleges in Texas 2023 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Texas 2023 #9 Best Research Universities in Texas 2023
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
60%
Student body
36K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/23
What is University of North Texas known for?
University of North Texas’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Business
- Criminal Justice
- Social Work
- Philosophy
- History
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mathematics
- Education
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.
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Louisiana 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Louisiana 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in Louisiana 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
71%
Graduation
69%
Student body
30K
Median SAT/ACT
1195/25
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.
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
68%
Graduation
66%
Student body
16K
Median SAT/ACT
1170/25
What is University at Albany, SUNY known for?
University at Albany, SUNY’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Sociology
- Earth Sciences
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Literature
- Psychology
- Economics
- Physics
- Communications
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.
- #3 Most Affordable Colleges in New York 2023 #3 Best Public Colleges in New York 2023 #10 Best Grad Schools in New York 2023 #10 Best Research Universities in New York 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
70%
Graduation
74%
Student body
28K
Median SAT/ACT
1225/26
What is University at Buffalo known for?
University at Buffalo’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Philosophy
- Computer Science
- Communications
- Economics
- Earth Sciences
- Medical
- Mathematics
- Social Work
- Sociology
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.
- #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2023 #2 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #22 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #22 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
88%
Graduation
66%
Student body
73K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/24
What is Arizona State University known for?
Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Earth Sciences
- Business
- Communications
- Chemistry
- Education
- Physics
- Engineering
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Psychology
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.
- #2 Best Public Colleges in Utah 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Utah 2023 #3 Best Grad Schools in Utah 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Utah 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$9K
Acceptance
93%
Graduation
56%
Student body
23K
Median SAT/ACT
1200/25
What is Utah State University known for?
Utah State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Economics
- Biology
- Earth Sciences
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Business
- Anthropology
- Education
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.
- #10 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2023 #11 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #13 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #24 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
69%
Graduation
83%
Student body
44K
Median SAT/ACT
1295/29
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.
- #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Colorado 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Colorado 2023 #3 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
90%
Graduation
69%
Student body
27K
Median SAT/ACT
1175/26
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.
- #14 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #1 Best Colleges in Iowa 2023 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Iowa 2023 #1 Best Grad Schools Iowa 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$10K
Acceptance
86%
Graduation
74%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1210/25
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.
- #13 50 Best Public Grad Schools 2023 #19 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2023 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Arizona 2023 #1 Best Research Universities in Arizona 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
87%
Graduation
64%
Student body
40K
Median SAT/ACT
1220/25
What is University of Arizona known for?
University of Arizona’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Anthropology
- Earth Sciences
- Physics
- Communications
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Criminal Justice
- Philosophy
- History
- Chemistry
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.
- #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Missouri 2023 #1 Best Public Colleges in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Research Universities in Missouri 2023 #2 Best Grad Schools in Missouri 2023
Other Rankings
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
77%
Graduation
73%
Student body
26K
Median SAT/ACT
1215/26
What is University of Missouri known for?
University of Missouri’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Communications
- Earth Sciences
- Education
- History
- Literature
- Business
- Biology
- Sociology
- Anthropology
- Psychology
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.
Tuition + fees
$8K
Acceptance
96%
Graduation
48%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1091/19
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.
- #14 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2023 #2 Best Public Colleges in Georgia 2023 #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Georgia Ranked for Students in 2023 #3 Best Colleges in Georgia 2023
Other Rankings
- #3 Best Research Universities in Georgia 2023
- #3 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2023
- #3 Best Grad Schools in Georgia 2023
- #6 Best Research Universities for Social Work Degrees
- #7 Best Research Universities for Criminal Justice Degrees
- #19 Best Research Universities for Education Degrees
- #22 Best Research Universities for Communications Degrees
Tuition + fees
$12K
Acceptance
40%
Graduation
88%
Student body
39K
Median SAT/ACT
1355/31
What is University of Georgia known for?
University of Georgia’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Social Work
- Law
- Political Science
- Biology
- Communications
- Education
- Business
- History
- Earth Sciences
- Criminal Justice
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.
- #7 Best Private Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Research Universities in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Colleges in Massachusetts 2023 #8 Best Grad Schools in Massachusetts 2023
Tuition + fees
$58K
Acceptance
18%
Graduation
91%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1475/34
What is Northeastern University known for?
Northeastern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
- Criminal Justice
- Computer Science
- Business
- Sociology
- Engineering
- Law
- Political Science
- Education
- Physics
- Nursing
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.
