University of Northern Colorado

What you'll study

The programme emphasises rigorous training in sociological theory and research methods alongside opportunities to specialise in substantive areas such as social inequality, family and life course, community and regional studies, organisations and work, and crime and deviance. Students typically take core courses in advanced sociological theory and in quantitative and qualitative methods, followed by electives that reflect faculty expertise and current social issues.

• Core theory and methods: advanced social theory; research design; quantitative analysis (including multivariate techniques); qualitative methods (interviewing, ethnography, content analysis).
• Substantive electives: race, class and gender; health and society; family dynamics; organisations and work; criminology and justice; urban and community sociology.
• Applied components: students choose between a research thesis, a capstone project, or an applied practicum/internship with community partners or government agencies. The applied option emphasises professional research skills and agency collaboration.
• Colloquia and professional development: regular departmental seminars, opportunities to present research, and training in grant writing, data management and ethical research practice.

The programme can be completed through a combination of coursework and a research component; typical degree structures allow part-time study and accommodate students who are working in related fields.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in sociology or a related social science field. Admissions decisions consider undergraduate GPA, academic references, a statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals, and a sample of written work. Relevant professional experience may strengthen an application, especially for those applying to the applied practicum path.

Additional requirements may include official transcripts and a CV. Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) are determined by the department and may be waived or optional; applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of public, private and non-profit roles where analytic, research and critical-thinking skills are valued. Typical career paths include:

• Applied social researcher or data analyst in government agencies, think tanks, market research or non-profit organisations.
• Policy analyst or programme evaluator focusing on health, education, criminal justice, community development or social services.
• Community organiser, project manager or coordinator for NGOs and community-based organisations.
• Human resources, organisational development or labour relations roles within public and private sectors.
• Academic careers or further research training through doctoral study in sociology or related disciplines.

The programme’s applied options and community partnerships support students seeking internships and workplace experience that facilitate transition into these careers.

Why study at University of Northern Colorado

The University of Northern Colorado offers a supportive graduate environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty engaged in both theoretical and community-based research. The department’s emphasis on methodological training equips students with practical skills in both quantitative and qualitative approaches, preparing them for diverse roles.

Located in Greeley and close to urban and rural communities across the region, the university provides strong opportunities for fieldwork, internships and collaborative projects with local agencies and organisations. Students benefit from departmental mentoring, opportunities to present research, and a programme structure that accommodates full- and part-time students and those pursuing applied or academic career paths.