The article defines the object and the subject of the sociology of higher education, one of the branches of the sociological science. The process of its emergence, formation and development, covering the last 60 years, is shown. The background for the emergence of the branch of science is revealed. The criteria of periodization of sociology of higher education are characterized. A meaningful interpretation of each of the three periods of its origin and development is given. In the process of analyzing the third period the constitution of the sociology of higher education is shown. In conclusion, the main problems of sociology of higher education that attract research interest are named. The publication is based on the materials of the author's monograph «Sociology of Higher Education» (2019) and develops the key ideas embedded in it and requiring their dissemination in the sociological community.