Program: Sociology, (MA) - University of Memphis

Jun 14, 2025

2025-2026 GRADUATE CATALOG

The Department of Sociology at the University of Memphis offers graduate studies leading to the Master of Arts in Sociology. Training in theory, research methods, and statistics is required of all students. In addition, the program offers a wide selection of courses in many substantive areas such as race, class and gender studies; globalization and development; social change; demography; family; deviance; and medical sociology. The Master's program provides opportunities to develop skills and interests in specific specialty areas while obtaining a solid grounding in sociological theory and social research methods. The program offers a high level of student-faculty interaction and the opportunity to participate in supervised research.

MA Degree Program

Graduate students who select sociology as a major should consult with the graduate coordinator.

Program Admission

Multiple criteria are taken into account when considering applicant admission, including, but not necessarily limited to, GPA for the last 60 hours of the undergraduate degree, letters of reference, and the writing sample. Students whose preparation is not in sociology should consult with the Graduate Coordinator regarding any additional sociology coursework needed prior to enrollment in the graduate program.

Program Requirements

Students may choose one of two degree pathways:
1. The thesis pathway requires thirty (30) semester hours of graduate level work, which includes 3-6 hours of SOCI 7996 - Thesis . Students should familiarize themselves with the Thesis/Dissertation Preparation Guide before starting to write. At least 24 semester hours of course work must be in sociology. Students are required to complete an oral defense of the thesis.
2. The non-thesis pathway requires thirty-three (33) semester hours of graduate level work and the successful completion of the culminating experience. Students should consult with the graduate coordinator regarding the requirements for the culminating experience. At least 27 semester hours must be in sociology.
3. The successful completion of the following courses is required of all majors: SOCI 6312 , SOCI 7210 , SOCI 7320 . A minimum grade of “3.0” is required in each.
4. No more than 6 semester hours of SOCI 7912 - Directed Indiv Study , may be counted toward the degree without permission from the graduate coordinator.