College of Humanities and Social Sciences

Department of Sociology and Anthropology

The graduate program in sociology provides a unique combination of demographic, organizational, political-economic, and social-psychological aspects to the study of major domestic and global issues. The main objective of this degree program is to provide a firm foundation in sociological theory and methods and to prepare students to pursue doctoral-level training in sociology. Graduate students have the opportunity to merge basic foundation coursework in social theory and research methods with more specialized training in selected specialty areas, which are environment and community, demography, and states and markets (which includes a substantial emphasis on social inequality). Students also have the opportunity to take electives in any of the departmental specialty areas or outside the department.

All MS students write a Plan A thesis under the guidance of their advisor and supervisory committee. One theory course, two methods courses, and a minimum of 30 total credits (including 6-9 credits for writing a research thesis) are required for the degree. 

Applicants for the MS program preferably have a bachelor’s degree in sociology or related social science discipline. If students have a different major, but have taken core sociology classes in methods, theory, and statistics, and have adequate exposure to the discipline, they may still be considered for admission.