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B.A. in Sociology

Throughout Scripture, God’s people are called to confront injustice and seek shalom. Biola's B.A. in Sociology major, offered by the sociology department, equips you for this task by teaching you to conduct sociological research and critically analyze such varied aspects of social life as family, crime, gender, race, ethnicity, religion and values. This program then guides sociology majors on how to apply this sociological knowledge and sociological theory to real-life issues in a variety of professional settings, including market research and human services.

In addition to its strong curriculum, expert faculty members and biblical integration, Biola’s sociology program offers several key advantages:

  • The program offers an excellent training ground for both the practical and theoretical understanding of society, and places great emphasis on teaching you how to apply what you have learned in the classroom. This includes the development of critical thinking skills and the use of research methods, including both quantitative and qualitative research methods.
  • Small classes give you an opportunity to form deep relationships with your professors and fellow students.
  • Biola’s location in Southern California — one of the world’s largest and most diverse metropolitan areas — is ideal for internships, research and job opportunities, offering a global perspective to students.

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Concentrations

  • Criminology

    The criminology concentration provides students an opportunity to study crime and related issues from a social scientific perspective, infusing themes of social justice and Christian ethics, and recognizing social inequalities present within the criminal justice system.

  • Social Work

    The social work concentration is organized as a broad preparation for students who desire to enter the helping professions.


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Courses

What will I study as a sociology major?

Throughout the sociology program, there will be a focus on the basic understanding of how society, culture and institutions affect our everyday lives, and the importance of seeking social justice as a Christian. Some interesting topics and course highlights you will learn about include:

  • How race, gender and class function in U.S. society
  • Causes of juvenile delinquency
  • Critical factors in the enforcing criminal justice in the United States
  • Social worker roles and responses to at-risk populations
  • How to conduct fieldwork and in-depth interviews
  • How researchers collect and analyze demographic data
  • Popular culture and society

Bible and Theology Coursework

As part of Biola’s commitment to a biblically centered education, most undergraduate students complete 30 credits of biblical and theological studies as a part of their degree program. Learn more about our Bible and theology core.

Career Outlook and Preparation

What can you do with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology?

Biola's sociology major provides training in a wide-range of strong skill sets that will prepare you for graduate school and careers in the fields of criminal justice, counseling, politics, research and social work. As a well-rounded professional, you can expect to impact the world for Jesus Christ in professions such as:

  • Child welfare liaison
  • Housing advocate
  • Domestic violence counselor
  • Medical social worker
  • School counselor
  • Rehabilitation officer
  • Attorney
  • Behavioral or data analyst
  • Non-profit work
  • Therapist
  • Teacher

7% job growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for social workers is projected to be faster than average between 2023 and 2033.

BLS projections are not specific to Biola University students or graduates.


Angela Gudeman

My program at Biola prepared me for my career by instilling in me a completely new understanding of how the world and society is structured and organized. The sociology program provided me with crucial insight into systems, structures, and social identities as well as giving me an understanding for how these either oppress or liberate different communities.

Forensic Interviewer
Sociology, B.A. '18
Beverly Koloko-Green

I have some of the best professors who have real world experience. I enjoy combining my faith and major together to impact the world for Jesus Christ.

Beverly Koloko-Green
Sociology, B.A. '17

FAQs

What is the focus of the bachelor's degree in sociology at Biola?

The bachelor's degree in sociology at Biola focuses on the study of human behavior in various social contexts, including family, crime, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and values. The program emphasizes the application of sociological theory and research methods to real-world issues.

What are the opportunities for graduate programs after completing the B.A. in Sociology at Biola?

After completing the B.A. in Sociology at Biola, students are well-prepared for a variety of graduate programs. The strong skill sets acquired through the program, including critical thinking, research methods, and a deep understanding of human behavior, make our graduates competitive candidates for advanced studies in law, sociology, criminology, social work and related fields.

Admissions

Admissions Process

Learn about Biola’s admissions requirements, steps to apply, application deadlines and more at our Undergraduate Admissions page.

Schedule a Visit

Learn more about this program by attending an upcoming event for prospective students and parents, or by scheduling a personalized visit.

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Tuition and Financial Aid

Attaining a degree from Biola is more affordable than you might think — dramatically lower than the “sticker price” in most cases — with 100% of incoming undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid.

Faculty


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Format

You'll study in person at Biola University's campus in Southern California.

Total Credits

Total program credits include major-specific courses and Biola's core curriculum.

Standard Completion Time

This indicates the standard duration of this program. Completion time may vary depending on transferred coursework and preferred courseload.

Accreditation

Biola University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission. Additional accreditations may apply to specific programs.