Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

The programme combines core training in sociological theory and methods with applied coursework and research. Students normally follow either a thesis or non-thesis track and take a mixture of required and elective modules to tailor their study to interests such as inequality, health and society, race and ethnicity, family and life course, crime and justice, or organisations.

• Core modules: social theory, advanced research methods, and advanced statistics for social research—covering multiple regression, survey methods and research design.
• Methods and analysis: intensive training in qualitative techniques (interviewing, ethnography, content analysis), quantitative modelling, and data management.
• Thematic electives: topics such as race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, urban sociology, health disparities, family sociology, and deviance and criminal justice.
• Research component: thesis option involves an original research project supervised by faculty; non-thesis option typically requires a practicum or applied research project plus a comprehensive examination.
• Applied learning: opportunities for community-based research, internships or practicum placements with regional agencies, school systems or criminal justice organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in sociology or a related social science. Typical admissions documentation includes official transcripts, a personal statement outlining academic and career goals, a current CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation.

• Minimum grade-point average: applicants are expected to demonstrate strong undergraduate performance; a competitive GPA from the baccalaureate is typically required.
• Standardised tests: GRE scores may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis—check the department for current testing policy.
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency through recognised tests (e.g. TOEFL/IELTS) is required where applicable, together with credential evaluation where necessary.
• Additional requirements: applicants with limited sociology background may be asked to complete prerequisite coursework in research methods and introductory statistics.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Sociology pursue a wide range of careers across public, private and non-profit sectors or continue to doctoral study. The programme prepares students for evidence-based work that relies on research, data analysis and understanding of social processes.

• Research roles: social researcher, survey methodologist, data analyst in research institutes, think tanks, or university-affiliated centres.
• Policy and public sector: policy analyst, programme evaluator, community development specialist, roles within local and state government agencies.
• Human services and non-profit sector: programme manager, grant analyst, community outreach coordinator for NGOs and social service organisations.
• Criminal justice and health: positions in corrections, victim services, public health departments, and organisations addressing health disparities.
• Further study: strong foundation for PhD programmes in sociology and related disciplines, or professional degrees where social research skills are valued.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a personalised graduate experience with faculty who actively engage in applied and theoretical research across a range of sociological topics. The department emphasises methodological training and community engagement, providing students with opportunities to work on funded projects and local partnerships.

• Faculty mentorship: small cohort sizes support close supervision for thesis work and practicum placements.
• Applied connections: the university’s regional relationships create practical placement and research opportunities with local governments, schools, health organisations and non-profits.
• Research and training resources: access to statistical software, social science research labs, and workshops in advanced methods and grant writing.
• Flexible delivery: options for on-campus study and courses that accommodate working professionals and part-time students.