University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The MA in Sociology combines core training in sociological theory and methods with elective options that reflect the department's regional and topical strengths. Students take advanced courses in social theory, quantitative methods (including regression and survey techniques), and qualitative methods (including ethnography, interviews and content analysis). Electives commonly cover subjects such as race and ethnicity, migration and transnationalism, demography, urban and community studies, social movements, gender and family, environmental sociology and the sociology of education.

The programme typically includes a mix of seminars, methods workshops and independent research. Students undertake either a thesis or a practicum/graduate project depending on their track: the thesis track emphasises original research and is suited to those preparing for doctoral study or research careers; the practicum/project track emphasises applied work with community partners, government agencies or NGOs. Throughout the degree, students develop skills in research design, data collection and analysis, critical writing and presenting research to academic and non-academic audiences.

• Core topics: contemporary social theory, research methods (qualitative and quantitative), statistics for social research
• Common electives: migration and transnationalism, race and ethnicity in the Pacific, demography, urban sociology, environmental and community sociology
• Capstone options: research thesis or applied practicum/project

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor's degree in sociology or a related social science with a good academic record. The department typically expects evidence of capacity for graduate-level work demonstrated through prior coursework, a transcript, and letters of recommendation. A personal statement outlining research interests and fit with faculty expertise is required, and a CV or résumé is normally requested.

Some applicants with degrees in other disciplines may be admitted subject to completing prerequisite coursework in sociology or research methods. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or institutional equivalents where required. Standardised tests (for example GRE) are considered by some applicants but are not universally required; consult the department for current guidance. Relevant professional experience, community engagement, or a clear research focus can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Sociology pursue a range of careers across the public, nonprofit and private sectors as well as further academic study. Typical destinations include positions in social research and evaluation, public policy and planning, community development, health and social services, education, and advocacy organisations. Skills in research design, data analysis and qualitative inquiry also prepare graduates for roles in market research, programme evaluation, demographic analysis and data-driven policymaking.

For those continuing to doctoral study, the MA provides a foundation in theory and methods necessary for PhD programmes. Graduates with applied practicum experience often move directly into community-facing roles with government agencies, NGOs, or local organisations focused on Pacific and Asian communities.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive sociological perspective shaped by its location and regional expertise. Situated in Honolulu on Oʻahu, the department brings particular strengths in research on the Pacific, Asia–Pacific migration, race and ethnicity, indigenous communities and island societies. This geographic and cultural setting affords unique opportunities for fieldwork, community partnerships and comparative research across Pacific and Asian contexts.

Students benefit from a small, research-active faculty with expertise across qualitative and quantitative methods, close mentorship for thesis and practicum projects, and access to campus resources such as specialised library collections, regional research centres and interdisciplinary research networks. The programme's connections with local agencies and community organisations also support applied learning and employment pathways in the region and beyond.