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 .

Best Sociology Courses & Certificates [2025]

Explore the Sociology Course Catalog

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University of Amsterdam
Classical Sociological Theory
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Studies, Social Sciences, Socioeconomics, Culture, Political Sciences, Economics, Qualitative Research, Research Methodologies, Science and Research
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Yale University
Introduction to Psychology
Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Child Development, Psychiatry, Mental Health, Human Development, Human Learning, Social Sciences, Behavioral Health, Sociology, Neurology, Critical Thinking, Scientific Methods, 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, Psychology, Persuasive Communication, Sociology, Behavior Management, Conflict Management, Interpersonal Communications, Research, Diversity Awareness, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Experimentation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
5.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of Pennsylvania
Social Norms, Social Change I
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Social Sciences, Culture, Social Determinants Of Health, Policy Analysis, Behavioral Economics, Surveys, Program Evaluation, Qualitative Research, Data Collection, Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Sciences Po
Cities are back in town : urban sociology for a globalizing urban world
Skills you'll gain: Sociology, Sustainable Development, Social Sciences, Demography, Cultural Diversity, World History, Political Sciences, Governance, Economics, Qualitative Research, Digital Transformation
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
188 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Utrecht University
Understanding child development: from synapse to society
Skills you'll gain: Child Development, Human Development, Speech Language Pathology, Developmental Disabilities, Systems Thinking, Pediatrics, Research, Neurology, Cultural Diversity
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
396 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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University of California, Santa Cruz
Feminism and Social Justice
Skills you'll gain: Social Justice, Advocacy, Sociology, Social Sciences, Jury Trial, Case Studies, World History, Labor Law
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
6.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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University of Pennsylvania
Social Norms, Social Change II
Skills you'll gain: Public Policies, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, Sociology, Community Development, Cultural Diversity, Trend Analysis, Psychology, Media and Communications
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
451 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
University of Amsterdam
Introduction to Communication Science
Skills you'll gain: Culture, Interpersonal Communications, Media and Communications, Research, Persuasive Communication, Qualitative Research
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.9K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
Emory University
Understanding Violence
Skills you'll gain: Substance Abuse, Public Health, Conflict Management, International Relations, Cultural Diversity, Mental and Behavioral Health, Social Sciences, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Media and Communications, Child Welfare
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
288 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Universiteit Leiden
Miracles of Human Language: An Introduction to Linguistics
Skills you'll gain: Language Competency, Language Learning, Language Disorders, Anthropology, Multilingualism, English Language, Communication Disorders, Cultural Diversity, Oral Comprehension, Interviewing Skills, Vocabulary, Grammar, Cultural Sensitivity, Interpersonal Communications, Social Sciences, Sociology, Research Methodologies
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
2.5K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Amsterdam
Quantitative Methods
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Research Design, Sampling (Statistics), Science and Research, Research, Research Methodologies, Surveys, Quantitative Research, Social Sciences, Experimentation, Ethical Standards And Conduct
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
2.4K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months