UNIVERSITY OF CALGARY · CANADA
Master of Arts in Sociology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
20 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 20 monthsProgram Duration
- Thesis-basedProgram Type
- Low professor/student ratioSupport
- Prepares for PhDOutcome
The Master of Arts in Sociology is a 20-month, thesis-based program designed to provide a strong foundation for doctoral studies or professional careers. You will engage in rigorous training in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics, alongside specialized coursework. The program emphasizes a low professor-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized support and feedback. Key components include core courses in theory, methods, and statistics, a professional training seminar with thesis prospectus preparation, and elective courses covering diverse topics such as health, ethnicity, gender, urban sociology, and social control. The program culminates in the completion and defense of an original research thesis.
Curriculum
The program consists of core courses, a Master's Seminar, additional specialized courses, and a thesis.
- Year 1
- Social Statistics
- Research Methods
- Sociological Theory
- Master's Seminar (Professional Sociology and Thesis Prospectus Preparation)
- Additional Courses (e.g., Health and Illness, Ethnicity and Racialization, Gender, Urban Sociology, Indigenous Issues, Deviance and Social Control)
- Year 2
- Thesis Research and Writing
Careers
Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in sectors such as health, education, government, and non-profit organizations. The MA in Sociology is also a strong prerequisite for pursuing doctoral studies.
- Health sector professional
- Educator
- Government employee
- Non-profit sector employee
- Researcher
- Analyst
- Program evaluator
- Clinician
Frequently asked questions
- How long is the MA in Sociology program and is it thesis-based?
- The Master of Arts in Sociology is a 20-month, thesis-based program. It culminates in the completion and defense of an original research thesis.
- What are the main components of the MA in Sociology curriculum?
- The program includes core courses in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics. You will also take a professional training seminar, elective courses, and complete a thesis.
- What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the MA in Sociology?
- You need a four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last two years of study. Demonstrated competence in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics is also required.
- What documents do I need to submit for the MA in Sociology application?
- You must submit academic transcripts, a written statement of intent, a sample of written work, and two letters of reference. International students must also fulfill English proficiency requirements.
- When is the application deadline for the MA in Sociology program?
- The application deadline for September admission is December 15. International students must adhere to the same deadline as domestic applicants.
- What kind of career paths can I pursue after completing the MA in Sociology?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in sectors such as health, education, government, and non-profit organizations. The MA also serves as a strong foundation for doctoral studies.
Entry requirements
Four-year undergraduate degree from a recognized institutionMinimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last two years of full-time study (minimum 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units).
Demonstrated competence in sociological theory, research methods, and statisticsNormally through coursework.
Applicants with international credentials should refer to country-specific degree requirements. A sample of written work and two letters of reference are also required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the Graduate Calendar for current tuition fees.
LivingEstimated living costs are available in the Graduate Calendar.
Information on fees and financial assistance can be found in the Graduate Calendar.
How to apply
1. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all required documents, including academic transcripts, a written statement of intent, a sample of written work, and secure two letters of reference.
2. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the minimum GPA and academic prerequisites, including demonstrated competence in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics.
3. Meet English Proficiency RequirementsIf your primary language is not English, fulfill the English language proficiency requirements as outlined in the Academic Calendar.
4. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application by the deadline. International students must adhere to the same deadline as domestic applicants.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the MA in Sociology program and is it thesis-based?
+
The Master of Arts in Sociology is a 20-month, thesis-based program. It culminates in the completion and defense of an original research thesis.
What are the main components of the MA in Sociology curriculum?
+
The program includes core courses in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics. You will also take a professional training seminar, elective courses, and complete a thesis.
What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the MA in Sociology?
+
You need a four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale in the last two years of study. Demonstrated competence in sociological theory, research methods, and statistics is also required.
What documents do I need to submit for the MA in Sociology application?
+
You must submit academic transcripts, a written statement of intent, a sample of written work, and two letters of reference. International students must also fulfill English proficiency requirements.
When is the application deadline for the MA in Sociology program?
+
The application deadline for September admission is December 15. International students must adhere to the same deadline as domestic applicants.
What kind of career paths can I pursue after completing the MA in Sociology?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in sectors such as health, education, government, and non-profit organizations. The MA also serves as a strong foundation for doctoral studies.