Sociology (M.S.)

Program Coordinator/Contact

Mary Emery, Department Head
Meredith Redlin, Professor/Graduate Coordinator
Department of Sociology and Rural Studies
Hansen Hall 004
605-688-4132

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 all 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 on the department website.

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 501 - The Research Process Credits: 3
SOC 504 - Sociological Inquiry Credits: 3
SOC 590 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1-3 (1 credit required) (Orientation)
SOC 707 - Sociological Practice and Public Policy Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

SOC 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
SOC Electives Credits: 15

Option B - Research/Design Paper

SOC 788 - Master’s Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-3 (3 credits required)
SOC Electives Credits: 19

Option C - Coursework Only

SOC Electives Credits: 25

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

Additional Admission Requirements

GRE: Required
TOEFL: Required score of 575 paper-based, 90 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.5

Each applicant is required to provide 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 require 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.

Accelerated Master’s Program

The accelerated Master’s program will be available to eligible SDSU students conditionally admitted to the graduate program. Up to 12 credits applied to the B.S. program may be used to satisfy graduate credit. Once students complete SOC 501 - The Research Process , SOC 504 - Sociological Inquiry , SOC 590 - Seminar (COM) (1 credit required Orientation), SOC 594 - Internship (COM) (2 credits required in the Data Center), and a SOC Elective (3 credits required approved by the advisor) with B or above grades, and graduate with a Bachelor’s degree, they will by fully accepted into the program.

In order to apply, students must:

be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Sociology;
have earned 90 undergraduate credits with a GPA of 3.25 or higher;
meet all degree requirements as stipulated by Regental or University policy;
submit to the Department of Sociology and Rural Studies, a statement of interest identifying how the Master’s degree in Sociology will contribute to their academic and career goals;
submit at least two letters of reference regarding his/her ability to participate in the program;
submit a writing sample to the Department of Sociology and Rural Studies;
submit scores for the GRE; and
submit the application for admission to the graduate school.

General Requirements

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

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