Best Sociology Schools & Programs in the US

If you have a keen interest in unraveling the mysteries of human societies, sociology offers a rewarding academic and professional path in social science. The field is all about studying social relationships, institutions, and the impact of various factors on individuals and communities. Studying sociology not only equips you with analytical skills but also fosters a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of social systems, promoting critical thinking and a nuanced understanding of societal challenges. Here are the best schools for sociology majors, for both undergrad and graduate students, to look into:

Top Schools for Sociology in the US

Harvard University

Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Tuition: $51,904

Why it’s a top school in this field: Harvard's Department of Sociology is renowned for its comprehensive programs and influential research. The faculty's commitment to pushing the boundaries of sociological inquiry and its diverse range of courses make Harvard a hub for sociological exploration.

Notable faculty:

• Orlando Patterson: Sociologist known for his work on slavery and social stratification.

University of California, Berkeley

Location: Berkeley, California
Tuition: $14,245 in-state, $44,219 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UC Berkeley's Department of Sociology is at the forefront of sociological research, emphasizing theoretical innovation and empirical investigation. The vibrant intellectual community and the school's commitment to social justice contribute to its prominence in the field.

Notable faculty:

• Arlie Russell Hochschild: Sociologist focusing on the sociology of emotion and gender.

Polygence research program mentor:

Shadrick S: I earned a PhD in sociology from UC Berkeley in 2020. My dissertation traced the development of the phonograph and recording industries in the US prior to World War II, and my goal is to publish that research as a book in the near future. I'm also a data lead for a digital archive of primary source documents from 1790s Louisiana. Before that, I spent several semesters as a teaching assistant and grader for courses devoted to social and cultural analysis (and social research methods in particular). In general, I enjoy making sense of the weird, wonderful, and sometimes worrisome ways that human beings make their history together and I enjoy discussing the ins and outs of the practice of research with students. 

Stanford University

Location: Stanford, California
Tuition: $56,169

Why it’s a top school in this field: Stanford University's Department of Sociology is known for its interdisciplinary approach and cutting-edge research. The program encourages students to engage with sociological questions from multiple perspectives, fostering a holistic understanding of social dynamics.

Notable faculty:

• Michele Dauber: Sociologist and legal scholar known for her work on gender and the law.

Polygence research mentor: 

Katie K: Hi there! I'm Katie, a creative design & business leader with an engineering degree from Stanford. I'm currently in Boston, getting my MBA from Harvard Business School. I'm passionate about designing & building new products, programs, services, and ventures that make a tangible impact in people's lives—especially in education and women's healthcare. Personally, I love to practice yoga, travel, ski, and try new restaurants (though I'm a horrible cook!). I also love extreme sports—I'm a certified scuba diver and have been sky-diving, bungee-jumping, paragliding, waterskiing, and more.

University of Chicago

Location: Chicago, Illinois
Tuition: $60,552

Why it’s a top school in this field: UChicago's Department of Sociology is celebrated for its commitment to rigorous empirical research and theoretical innovation. The school's legacy in shaping sociological thought and its diverse range of research centers contribute to its prominence in the discipline.  

Princeton University

Location: Princeton, New Jersey
Tuition: $57,980

Why it’s a top school in this field: Princeton's Department of Sociology offers a comprehensive and rigorous program, emphasizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches to sociological inquiry. The faculty's research spans various sociological subfields, contributing to the richness of the program.

Notable faculty:

• Patricia Fernandez-Kelly: Sociologist known for her work on immigration and inequality.

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
Tuition: $17,275 in-state, $51,144 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: U-M's Department of Sociology is recognized for its commitment to research excellence and the integration of sociological theory with empirical investigation. The program's emphasis on diverse research methods prepares students for a broad range of careers in sociology.

Polygence research program mentor:

Eli S: I was born and raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where I stayed to complete my undergraduate study in Psychology and Entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan. I spent much of my time as a field guide, leading backcountry wilderness expeditions, and working with a few friends to create and grow a business fraternity (Phi Gamma Nu) that is still thriving today! After graduating, I moved to Park City, Utah, where I skied, camped, hiked, climbed, biked, and worked at a technology company called Qualtrics (a small startup that just went public, worth over $27 billion) helping academics and corporations conduct high-quality marketing research. I am now a doctoral student at Columbia University, where I study both the behavioral dimensions of climate change and the real-world policy application of behavioral interventions.

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Location: Los Angeles, California
Tuition: $13,254 in-state, $43,326 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UCLA's Department of Sociology is known for its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to sociological research. The faculty's engagement with pressing social issues and the program's commitment to diversity contribute to its prominence in the field.

Notable faculty:

• Vilma Ortiz: Sociologist specializing in immigration, race, and ethnicity.

Polygence research program mentor:

Sarah A: I am a third-year doctoral student working toward my Ph.D. in Psychology at the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA). My research focuses on psychosocial factors associated with health decision-making. Although most of my research focuses on improving the quality of life for adults with cancer, I have contributed to research about immunology, statistics/measurement, and the effects of social media on mental health and well-being. 

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Tuition: $8,987 in-state, $36,159 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UNC's Department of Sociology is recognized for its strong commitment to teaching and research. The program's focus on critical sociological inquiry and engagement with contemporary social issues provides students with a robust educational experience.

Notable faculty:

• Howard Aldrich: Sociologist known for his work on organizational sociology.

Polygence research program mentor:

Shannon: I studied psychology at UNC Chapel Hill, and now I am a fourth-year Developmental Psychology PhD student at the University of Denver. I focus on studying cannabis use during pregnancy and plasticity in the brain during the pregnancy and postpartum period. I really love using different statistical models to answer complex longitudinal questions. In my research, I am particularly interested in understanding reasons why pregnant people might use during this time period and mixing qualitative data with quantitative results. 

University of California, Irvine

Location: Irvine, California
Tuition: $13,753 in-state, $43,507 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UC Irvine's Department of Sociology offers programs that emphasize both theoretical and empirical aspects of sociological research. The school's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and research excellence contributes to its standing in the discipline.

Notable faculty:

• David Meyer: Sociologist and expert in social movements.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Location: Urbana, Illinois
Tuition: $16,862 in-state, $33,352 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UIUC's Department of Sociology is known for its diverse range of research interests and collaborative approach to sociological inquiry. The program's integration of quantitative and qualitative methods prepares students for a variety of research-focused careers.

Notable faculty:

• Kevin Leicht: Sociologist specializing in social inequality and economic sociology.

University of Florida

Location: Gainesville, Florida
Tuition: $6,380 in-state, $28,658 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UF's Department of Sociology offers a vibrant intellectual community and a range of programs that explore various sociological dimensions. The school's commitment to research and critical thinking provides students with a strong foundation in the discipline.

Lesser-Known Schools for Sociology in the US

Indiana University Bloomington

Location: Bloomington, Indiana
Tuition: $11,220 in-state, $37,600 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: IU Bloomington's Department of Sociology is recognized for its diverse and dynamic research areas, including social networks, culture, and inequality. The program's emphasis on mentorship and collaboration distinguishes it as a lesser-known top choice.

Polygence research program mentor:

Andrew W: I'm a Social Psychology PhD Candidate studying goals and motivation, stereotypes and prejudice, and diversity science. I am passionate about research that can better people's lives and promote inclusion within society. My work utilizes quantitative and qualitative methods to understand people's beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes. Some current projects are examining multiple goal pursuit, stereotypes based on social class and gender, and STEM interest across marginalized backgrounds. Outside of the lab I love to hang out with friends and go out in nature. I'm a huge dog lover and amateur baker. I enjoy meeting new people and am excited to work with students on projects that motivate them!

Notable faculty:

• Jessica Calarco: Sociologist specializing in education and family.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Tuition: $10,742 in-state, $38,630 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UW-Madison's Department of Sociology offers a strong emphasis on research methodology and theory. The program's commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration and its vibrant research community make it a lesser-known but impactful choice for sociology students.

Notable faculty:

• Pamela Oliver: Sociologist known for her work on social movements and inequality.

University of Maryland - College Park

Location: College Park, Maryland
Tuition: $10,779 in-state, $36,891 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UMD's Department of Sociology is known for its commitment to social justice and critical sociological inquiry. The program's collaborative and interdisciplinary approach prepares students for diverse careers in academia and applied research.

Notable faculty:

• Kris Marsh: Sociologist specializing in race, family, and urban sociology.

University of Arizona

Location: Tucson, Arizona
Tuition: $12,816 in-state, $36,684 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: The University of Arizona's Department of Sociology offers a range of programs that explore various sociological themes, including immigration and environmental sociology. The program's supportive environment and focus on practical applications distinguish it as a lesser-known top choice.

Polygence research mentor:

Amber B: I went to the University of Arizona for undergrad. I was almost unable to go to UofA because I could not afford it, somehow I managed to get funding for my freshman year and I excelled at UofA so much that my senior year I was offered $22,000 in scholarships. I did not have anyone to help me or show me where and how to apply, but I would love to provide that support for many other students in similar situations. My current research interest is in law, the criminal justice system, protection, safety, race, gender, and social movements. 

Notable faculty:

• Jennifer Earl: Sociologist specializing in social movements and technology.

University of Oregon

Location: Eugene, Oregon
Tuition: $12,765 in-state, $36,615 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: UO's Department of Sociology is known for its commitment to critical and engaged scholarship. The program's emphasis on environmental sociology, gender studies, and social movements makes it a lesser-known but impactful choice for sociology enthusiasts.

Notable faculty:

• Eileen Otis: Sociologist focusing on economic sociology and globalization.

Northwestern University

Location: Evanston, Illinois
Tuition: $58,701

Why it’s a top school in this field: Northwestern's Department of Sociology offers a comprehensive program with a focus on urban sociology, inequality, and culture. The program's small class sizes and emphasis on mentorship provide students with a personalized and enriching educational experience.

Notable faculty:

• Mary Pattillo: Sociologist known for her work on race, class, and urban sociology.

Polygence research program mentor:

Paia A: I graduated from Northwestern with degrees in Neuroscience and Theatre. Seemingly different, studying both of these has helped me explore human behavior and emotion through multiple lenses. I currently conduct psychiatry research, particularly studying adolescents with anxiety. My personal interest is helping understand the developing brain to improve diagnostic and treatment measures for pediatric populations. Moreover, I aim to improve our current standardized healthcare systems to ultimately increase healthcare equity for families. In addition to research, I enjoy theater (creating or watching), reading or watching mysteries, singing, and boxing.

University of Colorado Boulder

Location: Boulder, Colorado
Tuition: $12,732 in-state, $38,856 out-of-state

Why it’s a top school in this field: CU Boulder's Department of Sociology is recognized for its collaborative and innovative research. The sociology program's emphasis on global sociology, health, and social psychology makes it a lesser-known but impactful choice for those interested in diverse sociological themes.

Notable faculty:

• Leslie Irvine: Sociologist specializing in animals and society.

Polygence research progam mentor:

Julia S: I am a clinical psychologist with a passion for research questions about how social relationships may impact mental and physical health. When I'm not working as a psychotherapist, I love refinishing furniture, hiking, and spending time with my friends and my pup.

These lesser-known schools may not always be in the spotlight, but they offer exceptional sociology programs, providing students with unique opportunities for academic and research exploration. As you consider your options for your sociology degree, explore the specific research interests, faculty expertise, and community engagement each school provides to find the best fit for your sociological journey.

What You Can Expect to Study in Sociology

In no particular order of importance, here are a few courses you can expect to study as a sociology major. 

- Introduction to Sociology

- Sociological Research Methods

- Social Theory

- Sociology of Deviance

- Social Stratification

- Sociology of Family

- Sociology of Gender

- Race and Ethnic Relations

- Sociology of Education

- Urban Sociology

- Medical Sociology

- Sociology of Religion

- Environmental Sociology

- Globalization and Society

- Social Movements

- Sociology of Work and Occupations

- Criminology

- Social Psychology

- Sociology of Aging

- Sociology of Technology and Society

How to Find the Right Sociology School for You

Choosing the right university for a sociology major involves a thoughtful assessment of various factors to ensure a tailored academic experience. 

• You can try exploring the specific programs, courses offered, faculty expertise, and research opportunities available to sociology students. The best sociology colleges and universities will provide ample opportunities for their students.

• Assess the overall campus culture and atmosphere to ensure it aligns with your personal values and preferences. 

• Consider the location—whether you thrive in a bustling urban environment or prefer a quieter, suburban setting. 

• Financial considerations are crucial, so evaluate tuition costs, scholarship opportunities, and the overall cost of living in the university's location. 

• Investigate the university's reputation, not only overall but specifically within the sociology department, and look for indicators of alumni success in the field. 

• Consider the availability of internships, job placement services, and networking opportunities that can enhance your practical experience and future career prospects. 

• Lastly, trust your gut feeling during campus visits, as the intangible aspects of comfort and connection play a significant role in your overall satisfaction and success at the chosen institution.

Using these tips will help guide you to find the best college for you to attend while pursuing your sociology degree.