Sociology, MA

Program Coordinator: Colin Campbell (413-A Brewster Building; 252-328-6092; campbellco16@ecu.edu)

The Department of Sociology offers a master of arts (MA) in sociology. The Sociology, MA prepares graduates for a range of professions including professional research, college-level teaching, social services, and social or political advocacy, or to pursue a doctor of philosophy.

Students applying to the program must meet the admission standards set by the ECU Graduate School, which include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution and a minimum GPA. Nonnative speakers must submit an acceptable score on one of the language tests approved by the Graduate School or evidence of at least one year of college/university study in the United States. Additionally, the application requires two letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.

Two of the program’s core courses are currently delivered online.

The degree requires 31 or 37 semester hours as follows:

1. Core - 13 s.h.

2. Electives - 12 s.h.

At least 6 s.h. of graduate sociology courses unless waived by the director of graduate studies.

3. Options - 6 s.h. or 12 s.h.

Choose one of the following options:

a. Nonthesis practicum option - 6 s.h.

Students choose between a research practicum in preparation for positions in applied research or a teaching practicum in preparation for teaching positions.

SOCI 6992 - Practicum

b. Nonthesis coursework option - 12 s.h.

Students complete an additional 12 s.h. of graduate elective courses with the approval of the director of graduate studies.

c. Thesis option - 6 s.h.

SOCI 7000 - Thesis

Comprehensive Assessment Requirement

All ECU graduate programs require students to successfully complete a comprehensive assessment. This program requires students to submit a portfolio following completion of the required core courses.