Sociology

Program Information 

Program Description
Masters students receive advanced training in theory, methods, and the practical application of sociological knowledge. At South Dakota State University, master’s students may choose from two academic tracks: thesis, and non-thesis options. Students traveling down the thesis and non-thesis tracks take advanced courses in sociological theory and methods; only the details vary. Students opting for the applied option specialize in community development. The thesis and non-thesis options are detailed in A Guidebook to the Thesis and Non-Thesis Masters Programs in Sociology. Information on graduate assistantships is also available. We also provide a study guide for master’s students nearing the end of their program; this guide helps structure the studying for comprehensive exams.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

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Master of Science	Option A
	Option B
	Option C

A - Thesis Option

• SOC 790 - Seminar
    Credits: 1
• SOC 701 - The Research Process
    Credits: 3
• SOC 702 - Sociological Inquiry
    Credits: 3
• SOC 709 - Evaluation Research
    Credits: 3
• SOC Research and Theory Elective Credits: 6
• SOC Elective Credits: 9
• SOC 798 - Thesis
    Credits: 5

Credits: 30

B - Research Project

• SOC 790 - Seminar
    Credits: 1
• SOC 701 - The Research Process
    Credits: 3
• SOC 702 - Sociological Inquiry
    Credits: 3
• SOC 709 - Evaluation Research
    Credits: 3
• SOC Research and Theory Elective Credits: 6
• SOC Elective Credits: 13
• SOC 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects
    Credits: 1-3

Credits: 32

C - Coursework/Applied Option

• SOC 790 - Seminar
    Credits: 1
• SOC 701 - The Research Process
    Credits: 3
• SOC 702 - Sociological Inquiry
    Credits: 3
• SOC 709 - Evaluation Research
    Credits: 3
• SOC Research and Theory Elective Credits: 12
• SOC Elective Credits: 13

Credits: 35

Additional Admission Requirements

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GRE: Required
TOEFL: Department requirement of 550 paper-based, 213 computer-based, 79-80 Internet-based

Each applicant should have 2 signed letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the student’s academic record as part of the graduate school application process. In addition, we highly recommend that interested applicants submit a writing sample (past term paper for example) and a personal statement. The personal statement should outline the applicant’s academic goals and describe how those goals connect with SDSU faculty expertise and interests.

 

General Requirements (Master’s)

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Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate work.

See Masters Degree Requirements .

Course Offerings

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Sociology and Rural Studies (SOC, ANTH, CD) Courses