2010-2011 University Catalog
Sociology, MA
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Banner Code: LA-MA-SOCI
Web: soan.gmu.edu
The MA in sociology provides opportunities for students to develop expertise in a variety of areas including applied methods, community, conflict analysis and management, development and social change, deviance, environmental sociology, gerontology, medical sociology, occupations and professions, policy analysis, race and ethnicity, sociology of science and technology, cultural studies, and survey research. The program is strongly connected to various nonprofit and community groups, providing ample opportunity for research, internships, and employment in various occupations.
Students pursuing a MA in sociology may choose an emphasis in general sociology; sex and gender; crime, delinquency, and corrections; race and ethnicity; cultural studies; or conflict analysis and management. The general sociology emphasis allows maximum flexibility in the application of sociological knowledge to the analysis of social processes and systems. All emphases are appropriate for those anticipating further graduate study leading to the doctorate in sociology.
Designed as a small and selective graduate program, the MA enables students to enjoy the benefits of a personal mentoring experience as they gain skills in both basic and applied research. In addition to required and elective coursework, students are required to complete a master’s thesis to demonstrate their ability to carry out independent research. The thesis consists of a substantial sociological research or theoretical project that will contribute to sociological knowledge.
This program of study is offered by the Department of Sociology and Anthropology .
For policies governing all graduate degrees, see the Academic Policies chapter of this catalog. |
Application Requirements
Applicants must meet the admission standards and application requirements as specified in the Admission chapter of the catalog. Applicants to the MA in sociology must also present the following:
- Minimum of 3 credits each in undergraduate sociological theory, statistics, and research methods. Equivalent courses in other disciplines may be substituted for some of these requirements, with permission.
- Three letters of recommendation from people who have supervised the student’s work. Two should be from an academic setting.
- A written statement (approximately 600 words) explaining the student’s interest in sociology
- Writing sample, such as an essay or full-length research paper
- A current résumé
Two courses (6 credits) of social theory:
Three courses (9 credits) of research methods including:
Four to five elective courses (12 to 15 credits)
Students may choose their electives from the full range of offerings in sociology or focus nine credits of electives in one of five emphases. Emphasis in Sex and Gender
- 6 credits in sex and gender
Emphasis in Conflict Analysis and Management
- 9 credits in the sociology of conflict and conflict management
Emphasis in Race and Ethnicity
- 9 credits in race and ethnicity
Emphasis in Crime, Delinquency, and Corrections
Emphasis in Sociology of Culture
This emphasis prepares students for the doctoral program in cultural studies.
- one master’s-level course (3 credits) in a department other than Sociology and Anthropology that serves as an introduction to cultural studies
Thesis (3 or 6 credits)
A master’s thesis demonstrates the student’s capacity to carry out independent research. The thesis consists of a substantial sociological research or theoretical project that will contribute to the advancement of knowledge in sociology.
Students must follow the thesis enrollment policy of the university and once enrolled in SOCI 799, maintain continuous enrollment as specified in the Academic Policies chapter of the catalog. |
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