The principal aim of the master’s program in sociology is to develop an advanced understanding of the significant features and processes of human society through a focus on both research and teaching.  The program prepares competent professionals for careers in research, education, government, and private enterprise.  The department’s core program of study stresses both theory and method while elective credits and the thesis project develop substantial knowledge in an area of interest.

A specialization in criminology is available within the 36-hour sociology master’s program; it is designed for students with academic and professional interests in criminology and criminal justice.  This option fulfills the electives requirement with specialized courses in criminological theory, policy, and substantive criminological issues.  It recognizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of crime as a social phenomenon and is designed for students preparing for careers in research, policy making, program development, scholarship, or academe. 

A minimum of 36 hours beyond the bachelor’s degree is required for the master’s degree, including six hours of thesis credit.  University policy holds that all requirements for the master’s degree must be completed within a six-year period.  However, the Graduate College may allow additional time under extenuating circumstances.

Disciplinary Core (18 credit hours from the following courses):

• SOC 6000 Proseminar
• SOC 6020 Classical Theory
• SOC 6060 Research Design and Data Collection I
• SOC 6070 Logic and Analysis of Social Research I
• SOC 6210 Logic and Analysis of Social Research II

Select one course from the following:

• SOC 6030 Contemporary Theory: Culture, Social Action and Society
• SOC 6040 Contemporary Theory: Agency, Interaction and Structure

Research Course (Select one of the following courses):

• SOC 6250 Research Design and Analysis in Social Psychology
• SOC 6800 Studies in Research Methodology: Variable Topics
• SOC 6810 Advanced Multivariate Analysis
• SOC 6820 Qualitative Methods
• SOC 6830 Research Design and Analysis in Social Psychology
• SOC 6870 Evaluation Research
• SOC 6880 Methods of Survey Research

Elective Courses or Specialization in Criminology (9 hours)

Master’s Thesis (6 hours):

• SOC 7000 Master’s Thesis

Total Hours:    36