Who doesn’t want to better society as a whole? Those who pursue a Master’s Degree in Sociology are on the road to doing just that. Earning a graduate degree in sociology prepares you to alleviate major social problems that revolve around race, poverty, sexism, and much more using intellectual and analytic tools.
The advanced study of sociology can lead to a variety of career opportunities, including those in social work among various other fields. If you want satisfying work helping people, then earning a Master’s Degree in Sociology may be a wise career step for you.
What is Sociology?
Sociology is the study of human interaction and society as a whole. It focuses on social behavior in a variety of settings, including both small groups, large institutions, and everywhere in between.
Sociology also analyzes other social factors, including race, gender, ethnicity, and social class, and their impact on life chances and social interactions.
Sociology Program Admission Process
Prospective graduate students should begin the application process a year before their desired start date. You will need to submit an application detailing your background and experience.
Applications can require transcripts, personal essays, and letters of recommendation. Sociology programs may also require GRE test scores. Two or three letters of recommendation are required for graduate schools. These letters should come from someone who can speak about your potential, such as former professors or supervisors.
You will need to have completed a bachelor’s degree either in sociology or social sciences. Programs may also accept those with liberal arts backgrounds. Additionally, a certain GPA may be required, typically a 3.0. However, this can sometimes be offset by test scores or work experience.
Lastly, you will need to pay a $50 application fee, but this can sometimes be waived if you require financial aid.
How to Choose the Best Sociology Master’s Program
There are several factors to take into consideration before choosing a program that is right for you. Costs, location, graduation requirements, and delivery methods are just a few factors to consider when selecting a sociology program. Those who attend a graduate program full-time can graduate within two years.
Many students flock to online master’s programs for their flexibility, in both time commitment and curriculum structure. Online programs give students the ability to work full-time jobs while attending school. The most crucial factor in pursuing online degrees is to make sure that the program and college are nationally accredited.
Choosing a program that offers specializations that align with your career goals is also extremely important. It would be best if you choose a program that offers required courses, electives, research projects, and specializations that align with these goals.
What Jobs Can I Get With a Master’s in Sociology?
Careers in sociology continue to grow year after year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for careers in sociology is expected to grow by four percent from 2019 to 2029. This can vary depending on certain occupations in sociology.
For example, research analyst jobs are predicted to grow 18 percent in the same time frame. After you earn your Master’s Degree in Sociology, there will be plenty of possible career paths to pursue.
Below are a few career possibilities with a sociology master’s degree.
Sociologist
Sociologists study and conduct sociological research to examine groups, institutions, organizations, and cultural processes using quantitative and qualitative methods. Using these statistical tools, they study data on race, gender, healthcare, and crime. These research positions require a master’s degree. The median salary for a sociologist is $57,352.
Research Analyst
Research analysts produce and examine quantitative data in organizational settings. They use this information in written and oral reports to explain how organizations should use the information. Research analysts need, at minimum, a bachelor’s degree. The average salary for a research analyst is $56,036.
Human Services Educator
Human service workers, sometimes known as case managers, help clients who may suffer from addictions, such as gambling or alcohol, and work with them to provide resources. As with most jobs in human services, they work to better the lives of those they contact by providing rehabilitation and support services. The median salary for a human service educator or case manager is $39,074.
Social and Community Service Manager
A community service manager is responsible for creating and implementing programs and services for a community. Social and community service managers typically work for non-profit organizations and for-profit government and social service agencies. Planning outreach events, writing events, and ensuring program objectives are met are just a few of their job duties. The median annual salary is around $64,670.
Master’s Degree in Sociology Curriculum
While there isn’t a specific curriculum that every program follows, there are typically a set of courses offered in all sociology master’s programs. A few of those courses include research methodology, classical sociological theory, contemporary sociological theory, critical race and ethnicity, and health and society. A curriculum will typically consist of core classes in theory, research, and analysis.
How Much Does a Master’s Degree in Sociology Cost?
The cost of a sociology degree program can vary depending on several factors. However, the investment is worth it. Graduates of master’s programs typically earn higher salaries and have more job advancement opportunities.
The National Center for Education Statistics reports that tuition can range from $11,303 to $23,919. The cost of tuition, of course, will depend upon if it is an in-state or out-of-state institution. It will also depend on if it is a private or public college.
Private institutions are typically more expensive than public, while out-of-state is usually more expensive than in-state. Online programs typically charge the same for both in-state and out-of-state applicants. However, they may charge technology fees.
Federal loans, grants, and work studies are available as financial aid options. Scholarships may also be applicable in some instances.
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