Understand society — and your place in it — with ASU’s Intro to Sociology

Curious about how societies function? Wondering why social norms exist, what drives inequality, or how culture influences our everyday lives? Whether you’re exploring these questions out of personal interest, preparing for future studies or thinking about a career in the social sciences, Arizona State University’s Introduction to Sociology Universal Learner Course offers a low-risk, flexible entry point into the social sciences

Explore college-level learning — without committing to a full degree. ASU’s Universal Learner Course are designed for anyone who wants to explore college-level material, earn affordable and transferable credit or build confidence before pursuing a full academic path. Intro to Sociology invites you to examine human behavior through a broader social lens — no GPA requirements, no transcripts, low risk. The perspective you develop here can strengthen your thinking and communication skills, enrich your understanding of the world and support your success in college, personal and professional settings.

Explore how society works — and why it matters

During Introduction to Sociology, you’ll examine how individuals relate to society, how cultural norms are formed and maintained, and how institutions like family, education, religion and government shape our lives. 

This online sociology course is structured into seven engaging modules, each designed to connect theoretical concepts with real-world issues and current social dynamics. Here’s a closer look:

1. Sociological perspectives and research

• Develop your sociological imagination
• Learn how sociology became a discipline
• Compare major theoretical perspectives
• Explore methods and ethics in social research

2. Culture, media and technology

• Understand differences between culture and society
• Examine beliefs, norms and values
• Explore subcultures, countercultures and cultural change
• Analyze media’s impact on culture
  

3. Societies, interactions, and socialization across the life span

• Compare societal types and sociological theories 
• Understand statuses, roles and social construction of reality
• Examine nature vs. nurture and socialization over time

4. Groups, organizations, authority and deviance

• Analyze group dynamics and leadership styles
• Study organizations and bureaucracies
• Explore deviance, sanctions and the criminal justice system

5. Social class, race, gender and sexualities

• Learn about social stratification, class and mobility
• Understand race, ethnicity and systemic racism
• Explore identity, intersectionality and sexism

6. Social institutions – families, education, work and religion

• Study foundational institutions and their societal impact
• Dive into theories related to work, capitalism and religion
  

7. Global population, environment and social change

• Examine demography and urbanization
• Discuss climate change and environmental justice
• Explore collective behavior, movements and social transformation

Each module connects theory to practice, helping you apply what you learn to the world around you — whether it’s in your community, the workplace or global current events.

Who should take ASU’s Introduction to Sociology course?

You don’t need to be pursuing a sociology degree to benefit from this course. A course for critical thinkers, changemakers and curious minds, Intro to Sociology is designed for anyone who wants to better understand how society functions — and their role within it.

ASU’s Intro to Sociology is designed for learners who want a flexible, affordable entry point into the social sciences — without having to enroll in a full-time degree program.

High school students and early college learners

This course gives you the chance to earn college credit while exploring general education topics at your own pace, with no GPA risk.

Students pursuing social science, law or public service

Sociology lays the foundation for fields like criminology, public policy, social work and law. If you’re interested in addressing systemic issues or helping communities, this course will sharpen your understanding of inequality, institutions and change.

Career changers and lifelong learners

Thinking of entering a people-centered field or just want to understand today’s complex world? Sociology gives you tools to analyze cultural shifts, workplace dynamics and social trends — making you more adaptable and insightful.

Why sociology matters — even if it’s not your major

You don’t have to be a future sociologist to benefit from this course. Sociology helps you:

• Develop critical thinking and cultural awareness
• Recognize social patterns and systems of power
• Understand different perspectives and lived experiences
• Navigate diverse workplaces and communities
  Analyze media, policies and institutions with greater clarity

From job interviews to leadership roles, the ability to think sociologically can make you a more thoughtful, informed and empathetic person — skills that are valuable in any career. If you’ve ever wondered what you can do with a sociology degree, the possibilities are wide. Sociology graduates work in education, nonprofit leadership, social research, public health, criminal justice and human resources — or use it as a launchpad for graduate study in law, policy or counseling.

ASU Universal Learner Courses: the top five benefits

ASU Universal Learner Courses like Introduction to Sociology, provide unique advantages that enhance your learning experience and allow coursework to fit around your schedule. Universal Learner Courses give you the freedom to learn without the traditional steps of college enrollment.

ASU Universal Learner Courses are designed to make college more accessible and flexible for learners of all backgrounds. Universal Learner Courses provide:

1. A flexible learning pathway that’s accessible and affordable. Flexible, online courses designed for your busy life. 
2. A head start on college. Universal Learner Courses unlock college access, serving as a bridge to college for aspiring students. This sociology course is widely transferable and meets general education requirements if you decide to pursue a degree in the future. 
3. Low upfront cost. Start for just $25 —  and pay $400 to add it to your transcript if you pass.
4. Earn college credit without risk to your GPA. You have the option to add it to your transcript or retake the course if you’re not satisfied with your grade. 
5. Accredited courses from a top-ranked university. Earn college credit with courses taught by ASU’s leading faculty. Arizona State University has been ranked the #1 most innovative university by U.S. News & World Report for 10 consecutive years.

Universal Learner Courses are ideal for learners who want to try college before committing, fulfill general education requirements at a low cost, or gain valuable knowledge and skills without pursuing a full degree. With over 60 courses available, learners can explore topics, earn credit and experience college-level learning in a flexible, low-risk environment.

Start learning sociology today

Whether you’re curious about how society works, interested in understanding culture and inequality, or planning to pursue a degree in the social sciences, Introduction to Sociology from ASU offers a flexible and affordable starting point.

Low risk. No hidden fees. Just a thought-provoking, college-level course that helps you see the world — and your place in it — through a new lens, with the option to earn transferable college credit.