Program: Sociology (M.S.) - South Dakota State University

2016-2017 Graduate Catalog

Apr 08, 2025

Program Coordinator/Contact
Mary Emery, Department Head
Meredith Redlin, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Sociology and Rural Studies
Scobey Hall 226, Box 504
605-688-4132
E-mail: jamie.jacobsen@sdstate.edu
http://www.sdstate.edu/soc/

Program Information
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.

Course Delivery Format
Graduate courses are generally delivered face-to-face in small seminar settings. A limited number of courses may be offered via DDN or on-line.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	30 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

SOC 701 - The Research Process Credits: 3
SOC 702 - Sociological Inquiry Credits: 3
SOC 709 - Evaluation Research Credits: 3
SOC 790 - Seminar Credits: 1-4 (1 credit required)

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

SOC 798 - Thesis Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
SOC Research and Theory Electives: 6
SOC Electives: 9

Option B - Research/Design Paper

SOC 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required)
SOC Research and Theory Electives: 6
SOC Electives: 13

Option C - Coursework Only

SOC Research and Theory Electives: 12
SOC Electives: 13

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Required
TOEFL: Required score of 525 paper-based, 100 Internet-based
IELTS: 7.0

Each applicant should have two 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

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

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .