Graduate
Whether you’re interested in teaching, research or deepening your understanding of sociological issues, our graduate program equips you with critical skills for any path you want to pursue.
Our department offers a Master's of Science degree that includes a first-of-its-kind concentration in digital sociology, along with a post-baccalaureate graduate certificate in applied social research.
All graduate courses are offered fully online, and students are not required to come to the VCU campus at any time during their studies.
Programs
M.S. in Sociology
The M.S. in sociology focuses include anti-racism, public sociology, inequality, social problems, policy alternatives and strategies for change. The program includes a concentration in digital sociology.
Certificate in Applied Social Research
The 18‐credit certificate in applied social research may be earned separately or simultaneously with the M.S. Students gain knowledge and skills in applied social research without necessarily pursuing a graduate degree.
Why a Master's?
Admissions
- Students interested in a sociology graduate program must apply through the VCU admissions portal.
- The sociology department no longer requires Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores. Candidates must have earned an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university, preferably in sociology or a related field.
- The Graduate School requires that all admitted students have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0. Additional factors, such as performance in the last 60 hours of coursework, will be considered in the admissions assessment.
- Candidates for admission must submit a personal statement describing their reasons for wanting to pursue graduate education in sociology at VCU and three letters of recommendation from instructors or professional references.
- Students who wish to participate in the digital sociology concentration should indicate their interest on the application form and in their essay/personal statement.
- The admissions deadline the M.S. program is June 1. Any applications received after this date will be considered for admission the following year.
Funding and Support
Many graduate students are eligible for financial aid which is available in various forms, including loans, grants, scholarships, and work‐study funding. Visit Student Financial Services for more information.
In addition, the sociology department offers paid teaching assistant positions to highly qualified applicants. The exact amount and condition may vary for each semester. Graduate students of funding must register for 9 credit hours per semester.
If you would like to be considered for a funding opportunity please submit your application early. Note on the admissions requirements and deadlines bulletin page that funding will be offered beginning in March.