UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS CHICAGO · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts (MA) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 37 semester hours minimum for MAMA Credit Hours
- 24-40 semester hours coursework for PhDPhD Coursework Hours
- 19-35 dissertation research hours for PhDPhD Research Hours
- No MA thesis requiredMA Thesis Requirement
- Area exams and qualifying exams for PhDPhD Examinations
- Strong focus on theory, methods, and specialized areasProgram Focus
The University of Illinois Chicago offers both a Master of Arts (MA) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology. The MA program requires a minimum of 37 semester hours and can typically be completed within two years. Students who complete the MA may then apply to the PhD program. The PhD program requires a minimum of 24-40 semester hours of coursework plus 19-35 dissertation research hours. A significant portion of the PhD involves original research, culminating in a dissertation. The program emphasizes rigorous theoretical training, advanced research methods, and in-depth study of specialized areas within sociology.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to provide a strong foundation in sociological theory and research methods, with increasing specialization as students progress. For the MA, core courses are completed in the first year. PhD students build upon the MA coursework or complete additional requirements. The program offers a range of core and specialty courses.
- Year 1 (MA Focus)
- Classical Sociological TheorySoc 585
- Sociological Statistics ISoc 401
- Sociological Research Methods ISoc 500
- ProseminarSoc 595
- Contemporary Sociological TheorySoc 587
- Sociological Statistics IISoc 402
- Sociological Research Methods IISoc 501
- Year 2 (MA Completion / PhD Transition)
- Sociology of InequalitySoc 542
- 500 level seminar (core or specialty)
- Independent StudySoc 596
- PhD Requirements (Beyond MA)
- Sociological Research Methods IIISoc 509
- Three 500-level seminars (2 core, 2 specialty)
- Colloquium on College Teaching of SociologySoc 593
- Dissertation ResearchSoc 599
Careers
Graduates of the Sociology program are prepared for a variety of academic and professional roles. The program emphasizes skills in research, analysis, and critical thinking, which are valuable in many sectors.
- University Professor/Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Community Organizer
- Market Researcher
- Data Analyst
- Social Worker
- Urban Planner
Frequently asked questions
- What are the degree requirements for the Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology?
- The MA program requires a minimum of 37 semester hours. It is typically completed within two years, and no MA thesis is required.
- How long does the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology take?
- The PhD program requires a minimum of 24-40 semester hours of coursework plus 19-35 dissertation research hours. A significant portion of the PhD involves original research culminating in a dissertation.
- What are the general admission requirements for the MA program?
- Admission to the MA program requires a bachelor's degree. International students must also meet English proficiency test score requirements.
- Where can I find information about tuition and fees for international students?
- International students should refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current graduate tuition rates, which are typically charged per credit hour and are subject to change.
- What are the career prospects for graduates of the Sociology program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor/Researcher, Policy Analyst, Community Organizer, Market Researcher, Data Analyst, Social Worker, and Urban Planner.
- How do I apply to the MA or PhD program in Sociology?
- Applications are submitted online through the UIC Graduate Admissions portal. You will need to prepare academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree is required for admission to the MA program. Students with an MA in Sociology from another institution may petition to have up to two courses count towards the UIC MA requirements, but must still complete the MA at UIC.
Students must complete MA course requirements within two years. Admission to the PhD program typically follows the MA. Specific requirements and deadlines for graduate admissions can be found on the UIC Graduate Admissions website. Contact the Graduate Student Specialist for specific questions.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current graduate tuition rates, which are typically charged per credit hour. These rates are subject to change.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current graduate tuition rates, which are typically charged per credit hour. These rates are subject to change.
LivingEstimated costs for housing, food, books, supplies, and personal expenses are available on the UIC 'Estimated Cost of Attendance' calculator. Please note these are estimates and can vary.
Tuition and fees are typically assessed on a per-credit-hour basis for graduate programs. The DOD TA rates provided are for informational purposes and may not reflect standard graduate tuition calculations. International students should consult the Graduate Admissions and Tuition pages for specific fee structures.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the MA and PhD program structures, curriculum, and specific degree requirements outlined in the Graduate Catalog and Departmental resources.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all necessary documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required test scores.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form for graduate admissions through the UIC Admissions website. Ensure all fields are accurately filled.
4. Send Supporting DocumentsUpload or mail official transcripts, letters of recommendation (usually submitted directly by recommenders), and any other required documents as instructed by the Graduate Admissions office.
5. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee. Fee waivers may be available in certain circumstances.
6. Await Admission DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically released by the Graduate Admissions office. The timeline for notification varies by program and application cycle.
Frequently asked questions
What are the degree requirements for the Master of Arts (MA) in Sociology?
+
The MA program requires a minimum of 37 semester hours. It is typically completed within two years, and no MA thesis is required.
How long does the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Sociology take?
+
The PhD program requires a minimum of 24-40 semester hours of coursework plus 19-35 dissertation research hours. A significant portion of the PhD involves original research culminating in a dissertation.
What are the general admission requirements for the MA program?
+
Admission to the MA program requires a bachelor's degree. International students must also meet English proficiency test score requirements.
Where can I find information about tuition and fees for international students?
+
International students should refer to the University's Tuition and Fees page for current graduate tuition rates, which are typically charged per credit hour and are subject to change.
What are the career prospects for graduates of the Sociology program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as University Professor/Researcher, Policy Analyst, Community Organizer, Market Researcher, Data Analyst, Social Worker, and Urban Planner.
How do I apply to the MA or PhD program in Sociology?
+
Applications are submitted online through the UIC Graduate Admissions portal. You will need to prepare academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.