MA Course-Based Program
The course-based MA program in Sociology provides students with an opportunity to earn a graduate degree in 8 to 12 months. It offers specialized graduate-level training in small classes (avg. 8-12 students).
The program requirements include:
1. Seminar in Research Design - 3 units
2. Seminar in Contemporary Sociological Theory - 3 units
3. Quantitative Methods in Social Research - 3 units
4. Qualitative Methods in Social Research - 3 units
In addition to these core 12 units, students must also complete one of the two following options to fulfill the degree requirements:
5. Course Option (12 units): Four (4) additional courses, two of which can be taken outside the Department
OR
6. Capstone Option (12 units): Two (2) courses, which can be taken within or outside the Department (6 units) + a capping project (6 units). Capping projects () can vary and may include a literature review and project proposal; an independent empirical research project; a practicum; or community-based research. Unlike the Course Option, student in the Capstone Option works with a supervisor to complete the capping project.
Program Total: 24 units
The time required to complete the MA program will vary. It can be completed in 8 to 12 months, or over a longer period (part time options are also available).
Students in the course-based MA are eligible to be hired as teaching or research assistants subject to available funding. These positions provide unique training opportunities for students to further develop their skills for the modern workplace. Course-based students are also eligible for select entrance scholarships.
The course-based program is ideal for students who are interested in developing specialized graduate-level skills to provide a strong foundation for future careers in a diversity of professions.
All students must also complete INT D 710 to fulfill the Ethics + Academic Citizenship requirement. As well, students must fulfill the IDP and PD requirement as set by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (GPS).
Students in the MA and PhD programs are also expected to attend a series of Professional Skills Workshops hosted by the Department.
Note: Changes to the course-based program from the 2025 - 2026 are currently in governance pending approval for the 2026 - 2027 academic year beginning in the Fall 2026 term.