Graduate Catalog 2022-2023

Sociology M.A.

The master's program in Sociology centers on the application of sociological theory and research methods to various social problems experienced by groups, communities, organizations, schools, and governmental bodies.

Applied Concentration:

The applied concentration program culminates in a professional research report based on the Research Internship experience.

Thesis Concentration:

Students who are interested in conducting a thesis project must consult their advisor and apply for this option to the Sociology graduate faculty during their second semester of study. The thesis requires six SOC 699 credit hours to be taken in 3-credit increments. Completion of the thesis also requires oral defenses of the proposal and the final draft before a faculty committee.

Admission:

In addition to meeting the Graduate School requirements, the following materials should be submitted to the Sociology department:

  • A letter of intent including research/teaching interests and specific career
  • Two letters of recommendation

Students are strongly encouraged to review the research areas of the Sociology faculty on our website and contact faculty in whose research they are interested. The student must meet with a graduate advisor during the second semester of the program to determine a course of study and pursuit of either the Thesis or Applied Concentration. Assistantships including stipends and partial tuition waivers are offered on a competitive basis each semester. Graduate application deadline to be considered for fall semester assistantships is April 1st. 

For degree and program requirements, see:

Sociology M.A. – Applied Concentration 

Sociology M.A. – Thesis Concentration