Understanding people through an online sociology degree

The study of sociology—the scientific methods that shed light on why humans behave the way they do—can help solve problems and enact positive change for individuals and societies.

At the University of Nebraska at Kearney, an online B.S. in Sociology and an online Minor in Sociology are available to prepare students for careers that utilize this field of expertise.

Suzanne Maughan, chair of the Department of Sociology at UNK, has a passion for both teaching sociology and doing research. Through her online courses, Maughan—originally from Australia—interacts with students from many places and backgrounds.

“I have the opportunity to meet a lot of students before they even begin their classes at UNK,” she said. “It is a joy to interact with new students as they learn and develop an intimate knowledge of the society we live in.”

UNK’s online sociology programs help students develop skills to use scientific methods to answer complex questions about society, whether at the local or global level. Knowledge in this area fosters creativity, critical thinking, problem solving, and effective communication with diverse audiences—useful and valuable abilities in today’s workforce.

“Our faculty value working closely with students as individuals or groups to build confidence as they strengthen their skills and knowledge,” said Maughan. “This prepares them for careers working with individuals or for a future in graduate school.”

Sociology career options can include positions within social services, counseling, law and politics, government, market research, public relations, research and analysis, human resources, health care and education. While the online bachelor’s degree provides the full scope of the causes and consequences of human behavior, the online minor offers foundational concepts that complement many undergraduate majors, including criminal justice, social work and more.

For those already in the workforce looking to enhance their education or move into a career focusing on skills in sociology, Maughan offers the following insight about the online programs.

“These are great options for students who need to work more than traditional students work because they allow for flexibility,” she said. “They will broaden your scope and skills for a career.”

Learn more about the online B.S. in Sociology or online Minor in Sociology programs at UNK, or contact us at ecampus@unk.edu or 1.800.865.6388.