Sociology, MA
Are you interested in advanced study on social behavior and the structural factors that contribute to social injustices? By pursuing an MA in sociology from the University of Tennessee, you will acquire the intellectual tools to identify and critically analyze social phenomena and trends, along with the methodological tools to conduct rigorous research. These tools will better equip you to understand human society so that you can make a positive impact that moves the needle in your career and community.
Program Overview
The Sociology MA teaches specialized knowledge of sociological theories, preparing them for careers, doctoral study, or position in higher education.
With five available concentrations—including an applied sociology concentration that specifically prepares students to work in social-change organizations—students can choose the area of study that best fits their research and career interests.
Our program provides students with an understanding of sociological theories, inequalities in society, and how to apply theory in real-world and research settings. Whether you’re interested in political economy, environmental sociology, criminology, or critical race and ethnic studies, we offer pathways where collaboration and the sharing of ideas not only strengthen your intellectual curiosity but also prepare you to tackle urgent challenges.
Concentrations
Our program offers five different concentrations, all requiring students to complete a thesis project.
Our current selection of concentrations include:
- Applied Sociology
- Criminology Concentration
- Critical Race and Ethnic Studies Concentration
- Environmental Sociology Concentration
- Political Economy and Globalization Concentration
If you’re interested in applying research to real-world problems or advocating for people’s civil rights, then criminology and applied sociology might be the right fit for you.
Our three remaining concentrations prepare students to learn about power, the relation between social institutions and behavior, as well as the production and consumption of goods and services. Whatever your unique interests, our concentrations give you the flexibility and versatility to stand out.
Accelerated Combined BA / MA Program
Our program also offers an accelerated combined BA/MA program that allows students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in sociology in five years. Undergraduate students take up to 9 credit hours of graduate coursework that counts towards both their BA and MA degrees. Students must have an overall 3.4 GPA for admission to the program.
Honors pathways are available for all of the BA/MA programs.
Our current selection of BA/MA offerings includes:
- Sociology, BA – General Sociology concentration with a Sociology, MA
- Sociology, BA – Criminology and Criminal Justice concentration with a Sociology, MA
- Sociology, BA – Critical Race and Ethnic Studies concentration with a Sociology, MA
- Sociology, BA – Environmental Sociology concentration with a Sociology, MA
Why Study Sociology?
At UT, you’ll have the opportunity to work with world-class faculty in the Department of Sociology through a required thesis project. Each MA student in the sociology program will complete a thesis in their chosen concentration, which they can tailor to their specific research interests. Faculty-mentors will be there every step of the way, guiding your growth through dedicated support and collaboration.
Our program also offers a unique opportunity for students interested in applied sociology, a pathway for students pursuing professional careers. In addition to completing a thesis, students complete a practicum experience, working with nonprofits, community, or social organizations that provide them with experiential learning opportunities.
What Can You Do with an MA in Sociology After Graduation?
The MA in sociology is intended for students planning to pursue a doctorate or law degree but also offers pathways, such as applied sociology, for those interested in professional careers. Students might go on to work as civil rights or immigration lawyers, policy analysts, and even as employees in nonprofit or community organizations. For those pursuing doctoral studies, many students go on to become academic researchers and professors at leading higher education institutions.
At UT, we encourage students to understand the value that our Sociology MA program can have when combined with a law degree. You’ll graduate with an in-depth understanding of the complexity of laws, civil rights, and the legal system.
Featured Courses
SOCI 541 Collective Behavior, Social Movements, Social Change
This course introduces students to basic theory and research on conditions of social unrest in human collectivities and efforts of collectives to change existing society.
SOCI 654 Theories and History of the Carceral State
Students will learn about the historical, theoretical and empirical literature on the rise of the carceral state. They will also learn the extent to which punishment and social control logics have permeated state governing institutions beyond the formal criminal justice system.
SOCI 616 Advanced Topics in Race and Ethnicity
This course contains rotating topics on race and ethnicity including but not limited to environmental racism, policing and race, race, terror and genocide, intersectionality, health disparities, immigration and ethnic change, disproportionate minority contact, and advanced Critical Race Theory.
SOCI 661 Environmental Theory
This course teaches students the historical and contemporary studies of interaction between humans and their environment.
Complementary Minors and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
Looking For More Options?
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