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Sociology, MA

Sociology, MA


Science, Scientist, cultures, human, social

Learn how the patterns of social relationships and social interactions impact individuals, family members and workers.

Program description
Degree awarded: MA  Sociology

The MA program in sociology provides advanced training for those preparing for applied careers in sociology.

Students gain knowledge and skills that can be used to promote healthy individuals and families. They develop an understanding of how social context influences well-being and an understanding of the factors that promote successful relationships and positive outcomes.

The online format provides easy access to rigorous and valuable information that informs best practices in improving the lives of individuals, families and communities. The program also includes a customizable culminating experience that allows students to focus their training in their areas of interest and work.

At a glance
Degree requirements

30 credit hours including the required capstone course (SOC 588)

Required Core (6 credit hours)
SOC 585 Sociological Theory (3)
SOC 586 or FAS 586 Masters Professional Development (3)

Electives (15 credit hours)
diversity course (3)
other elective coursework (12)

Other Requirements (6 credit hours)
SOC 500 Research Methods (3)
SOC 501 Social Statistics (3)

Culminating Experience (3 credit hours)
SOC 588 Capstone Culminating Experience (3) OR FAS 588 Capstone Culminating Experience (3)

Additional Curriculum Information
Students should see the academic unit for a complete list of approved electives. The diversity course and other elective coursework are chosen with approval by the academic advisor. SOC 500 and SOC 501 may be replaced by equivalent courses with approval by the academic advisor.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program, or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate coursework
  3. current resume or curriculum vitae
  4. a personal statement of goals relevant to the master's degree program
  5. two letters of recommendation from academic or professional backgrounds
  6. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

The personal statement must be four to five pages long, double-spaced, and it should address the applicant's professional goals, their strengths for success in the program, and any relevant professional experience or responsibilities they have completed.

Letters of recommendation must be from at least two individuals with a professional or academic background and connection to the applicant. Family members and friends do not meet this criterion. Letters of recommendation are to be received electronically.

Applicants should see the program website for application deadlines and admission terms.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/COnline 07/20Final
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/COnline 12/11Final
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/COnline 04/18Final
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Analyze a topic related to sociology, both individually and collaboratively.
  • Articulately discuss research on a topic related to sociology.
  • Apply empirically-based information to approved hands-on field experience.
Career opportunities

Professionals with expertise in research methodologies and data analysis coupled with an understanding of social and cultural issues and social change are sought-after in areas like human services, human resources, education, public policy and community service in the social service, business and nonprofit sectors.

Career examples include:

  • case managers
  • mediators
  • mental health counselors
  • probation officers
  • social and community service managers
  • sociologists
  • sociology instructors
  • social workers
  • urban and regional planners
Contact information
What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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