Earn Your Sociology Minor Online

Understand society while enhancing your major studies

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Credits required

18

Cost per-credit*

$288.50

Length

2 Years

Start Terms

3 Per Year

Overview

The Online Minor in Sociology from the University of Nevada, Reno helps students make sense of how people and institutions interact and influence each other. As a discipline rooted in the scientific study of society, sociology encourages you to think critically about the structures that shape communities, governments, workplaces and everyday life.

Whether you're pursuing a degree in public health, political science, education or business, the sociology minor complements your major by strengthening your understanding of diversity, power and social change. It also equips you with valuable skills in communication, research and analysis.

Program Snapshot

  • Credits Required 18
  • Format 100% Online
  • Tuition $288.50* per credit (in-state base tuition)
  • College College of Liberal Arts

*Program tuition. Base in-state tuition cost. Does not include student fees. Please note everyone's net tuition costs is specific to their own situation and will be different for each person. Learn more about tuition and fees.

What You’ll Learn

Students minoring in sociology explore a variety of social topics—ranging from gender roles and racial dynamics to political systems and economic structures. Through foundational coursework and upper-division electives, you’ll learn to evaluate and interpret real-world issues using sociological theory and methods.

By completing this minor, you’ll be able to:

  • Analyze how race, gender and class impact individual experience and institutional behavior
  • Understand key theories related to society, power and culture
  • Apply research skills to examine social change and inequality
  • Think critically about current events, media narratives and policy debates

Curriculum Requirements

To earn the Sociology Minor, you must complete 18 credit hours of approved coursework. This includes:

Course Requirement Credit Hours
SOC 101 – Principles of Sociology 3
SOC 207 – Introduction to Sociological Theory 3
Upper-Division Sociology Electives (300–499 level) 9
Additional Sociology Electives (any level) 3

At least 9 credits must be upper-division courses (numbered 300–499). All courses must be passed with a grade of “C” or better.

View the complete catalog listing here: UNR Catalog – Sociology, Minor

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Who Should Add This Minor

This program is ideal for undergraduate students who want to strengthen their major area of study with a deeper understanding of human behavior and social forces. The minor is especially relevant for those pursuing careers or advanced degrees in:

  • Education
  • Political science or law
  • Public health or social work
  • Journalism, communications or marketing
  • Criminal justice or public administration

Career Connections

The sociology minor develops skills valued across a wide range of fields—especially those that require cultural competency, problem-solving and ethical reasoning. Graduates with this minor often pursue careers or graduate study in:

  • Public service and advocacy
  • Government and nonprofit sectors
  • Healthcare and community outreach
  • Journalism and media
  • Social policy, urban planning and law

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Explore how sociology helps you understand the world and shape the future.

Why Choose Nevada Online for Your Sociology Minor

Nevada Online provides a flexible, fully asynchronous Sociology Minor taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty. As part of a Carnegie® R1 University, you’ll gain access to a rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum and research-informed instruction, all designed for online learners.

Benefits of learning online with Nevada Online

Classes taught by University of Nevada, Reno faculty

Access to a Carnegie® R1 research university

Choose from accessible, fully online programs

Continue your education from anywhere in the world, free from a fixed schedule