Master of Arts in Sociology

Examine the dynamics of social change and factors that shape human behavior.

Develop the knowledge and analytical skills you'll need for successful careers and informed citizenship. Our program provides advanced coursework and research opportunities in areas of sociology that align with your goals and interests. You can choose to complete either a thesis or an internship. We also offer an optional specialization in criminology, allowing you to further customize your studies.


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Get an Early Start on Graduate Study

Our accelerated B.S. or B.A. and M.A. program allows you to take graduate-level courses while an undergraduate, saving you time and resources.

At a Glance


33 credit hours


In person


Full time


Start in the fall


Career Outlook for M.A. in Sociology Graduates

Average mid-career salary for alumni:

Top job titles for alumni:

Top employers for alumni:

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How to Apply

You can apply if you have:

  • Bachelor’s degree or minor in sociology or a related field
  • Minimum 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA (or equivalent)

If you haven’t completed coursework in sociological theory and methods, we’ll advise you on how to meet this requirement before enrollment.

You can begin the program in the fall only. You’ll apply through the Graduate School.

Application deadlines:

  • February 1: priority consideration for funding
  • May 1: international applicants living abroad
  • July 1: applicants residing in the U.S.

Application Materials

Your application materials will include:

  • Two letters of recommendation from individuals who have an academic relationship with you and can speak to your ability to succeed in a graduate-level program
  • Personal statement that outlines your preparation for graduate study in sociology, your goals for graduate school and beyond, and why you believe our program can best help you meet them
  • Resume/CV (optional) in PDF format indicating your professional and/or volunteer experience

Costs and Funding

Our competitive tuition and fees helps ensure an excellent return on the investment of your time and resources. Learn about additional funding opportunities for graduate students.

Assistantships

We offer competitive graduate assistantships to students accepted into the program. The GA includes a stipend for the academic year and a tuition waiver (excluding student fees).


Curriculum and Requirements

Your program will include completion of a thesis or internship.

Thesis

Writing a thesis allows you to grapple with a significant sociological problem and demonstrate mastery in your area of specialization. Under close faculty supervision, you’ll pose meaningful questions and systematically marshal a body of evidence to address them. Successfully defending your thesis satisfies the comprehensive exam requirement.

Internship

The internship path provides substantial field experience, requiring at least 240 hours of work (120 hours is the equivalent of three credit hours). You must submit a brief proposal of your internship project and pass the written comprehensive exams before starting your internship hours. Upon completion, you’ll submit a final paper on your experience to the graduate committee for evaluation.

View Degree Requirements


Faculty

Our faculty hold degrees from some of the top sociology departments in the world and specialize in a range of areas, including international security, human rights and cultural sociology. They’re committed to providing learning experiences that prepare students for career success.

More About Our Faculty