Sociology encompasses the study of human interactions. These interactions may involve small or large groups or people. For example, it may involve studying team dynamics or even historical relationships between growing cultures. Those who study the field look at aspects of society such as behavioral patterns, sources of conflict, and societal pressures.

What career opportunities can arise from learning about sociology?

Learning about sociology can prepare you for careers such as survey researcher, HR representative, social worker, public relations specialist, or marketing strategist. Survey researchers design surveys intended to measure public opinion on subjects such as politics or purchasing habits. The researchers then analyze the results of those surveys and offer guidance to clients, including businesses and other organizations. HR representatives often rely on their knowledge of group dynamics to recruit and train new employees, ensuring organizations are well staffed. Social workers use their knowledge of societal trends to identify and help vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. Social workers may offer everything from mental health to child welfare services. Public relations specialists and marketing strategists need an understanding of concepts such as social pressures and trends to reach target audiences. Knowledge of behavioral theories can also help them create persuasive messages.

How can online courses on Coursera help me learn about sociology?

Online courses on Coursera can help introduce you to and expand your knowledge of sociological concepts including organizational theory. Certain courses focus on specific areas, such as the role of sports in society, types of conflicts, and international leadership. You'll also have the opportunity to learn practical skills, such as conflict management strategies, which you can use in the workplace.

What are the benefits of taking an online Sociology course?

Online Sociology courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Sociology skills. Choose from a wide range of Sociology courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

What Sociology courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Sociology, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here .

Top Sociology Courses - Learn Sociology Online

Explore the Sociology Course Catalog

Status: Preview
University of Amsterdam
Classical Sociological Theory
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Culture, Socioeconomics, Anthropology, Political Sciences, Economics, Qualitative Research, Science and Research, Research Methodologies
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of Pennsylvania
Social Norms, Social Change I
Skills you'll gain: Social Sciences, Sociology, Cultural Diversity, Game Theory, Behavioral Economics, Qualitative Research, Data Collection, Surveys, Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
Yale University
Introduction to Psychology
Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties, Human Development, Scientific Methods, Clinical Psychology, Research, Culture, Social Sciences, Learning Theory, Psychiatry, Child Development, Neurology, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
32K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Wesleyan University
Social Psychology
Skills you'll gain: Social Sciences, Sociology, Psychology, Persuasive Communication, Conflict Management, Behavior Management, Interpersonal Communications, Cultural Diversity, Research, Ethical Standards And Conduct
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Sciences Po
Cities are back in town : urban sociology for a globalizing urban world
Skills you'll gain: European History, Social Sciences, Sociology, World History, Cultural Diversity, Demography, Socioeconomics, Cultural Sensitivity, Digital Transformation, Economics
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
186 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of California, Santa Cruz
Feminism and Social Justice
Skills you'll gain: Social Justice, Sociology, Community Organizing, Social Sciences, Advocacy, Diversity Awareness, World History, Legal Proceedings, Discussion Facilitation, Public History
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
6.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

What brings you to Coursera today?

Start my career

Change my career

Grow in my current role

Explore topics outside of work

Status: Preview
University of Amsterdam
Introduction to Communication Science
Skills you'll gain: Culture, Media and Communications, Social Sciences, Research, Sociology, Ancient History, European History
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.9K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
University of Pennsylvania
Social Norms, Social Change II
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Sciences, Social Justice, Community Development, Legal Strategy, Cultural Diversity, Trend Analysis, Psychology, Media and Communications, Policy Development
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
449 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
Stanford University
Social and Economic Networks: Models and Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Network Analysis, Game Theory, Mathematical Modeling, Social Sciences, Statistical Modeling, Markov Model, Probability, Bayesian Statistics, Probability Distribution
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
755 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Utrecht University
Understanding child development: from synapse to society
Skills you'll gain: Child Development, Human Development, Speech Language Pathology, Psychology, Working With Children, Systems Thinking, Cultural Diversity, Biology, Neurology, Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
381 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Emory University
Understanding Violence
Skills you'll gain: Injury Prevention, Behavioral Health, Mental Health, Public Health, Media and Communications, Sociology, Cultural Diversity, Social Sciences, Community Health, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Biology
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
278 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Amsterdam
Methods and Statistics in Social Sciences
Skills you'll gain: Qualitative Research, Scientific Methods, Statistical Inference, Data Presentation, Science and Research, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Research Design, Probability & Statistics, Data Collection, Predictive Modeling, Sampling (Statistics), Statistics, Statistical Analysis, Research Methodologies, Research, Interviewing Skills, Report Writing, Research Reports, Regression Analysis, R Programming
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
7.7K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months