Sociology

Sociology at the University of California offers a comprehensive and dynamic program designed to explore the complex fabric of human society. Through rigorous coursework and innovative research opportunities, students gain a deep understanding of social phenomena, institutions, and processes that shape everyday life. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including social interaction, inequality, culture, social change, and urban dynamics, equipping graduates with critical thinking skills and a nuanced perspective on social issues.

Students in the program have access to experienced faculty members who are leaders in their fields, as well as state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support both theoretical and applied learning. The program encourages active engagement with real-world social problems through community-based research, internships, and collaboration with industry partners. This practical approach prepares students for careers in various sectors such as public policy, social services, research, education, and nonprofit organizations.

The university’s vibrant academic community fosters an environment of inquiry and inclusivity, supporting students from diverse backgrounds and interests. For those interested in advanced study, the program offers pathways to graduate research and specialization in areas like criminology, gender studies, environmental sociology, and globalization. Graduates of the Sociology program are well-equipped to analyze societal structures, advocate for social justice, and contribute meaningful solutions to pressing social challenges.

With a commitment to academic excellence and societal relevance, the Sociology program at the University of California aims to develop not only knowledgeable scholars but also engaged citizens who can make a positive impact on society. Whether pursuing careers in academia, government, or the private sector, students will leave the program with the analytical tools, ethical grounding, and global perspective necessary to navigate and influence the modern world.

M.A.Thesis and Oral Examination Each student must complete a thesis for completion of the master’s degree. This paper reflects the student’s areas of theoretical and substantive interest since entrance into the program, and it is written in a form, content, and style appropriate for publication or presentation to a sociological audience. A three-person faculty committee oversees the evaluation of the paper and the oral defense of the thesis. The thesis must be completed by the end of the student’s sixth quarter of enrollment. The thesis must be submitted electronically to the Graduate Division, following the formatting guidelines provided on the Graduate Division web page. On the basis of a favorable recommendation from the three-person faculty committee, the faculty votes to recommend the awarding of the M.A. degree in Sociology. If the M.A. is awarded or if the student already has an M.A. in Sociology, the faculty then votes on whether the student should continue in the Ph.D. program. If a student is allowed to continue in the Ph.D. program, the faculty then votes on whether to accept the two areas of specialization in which the student requests to be examined.

Professional Development Training Each student must complete the following professional training courses: SOC 232 and SOC 293. Normally SOC 232 (Proseminar in Sociology) is completed in the fall of the first year as part of the core program. SOC 293 (Research Topics in Sociology) is required once each year until a student is advanced to candidacy. In addition. SOC 301: Directed Studies in the Teaching of Sociology is required prior to or concurrent with the completion of teaching assistantships in the program

Period of Specialization After admission to two areas of specialization (see M.A. Thesis and Oral Examination, above), students are expected to consult with faculty who constitute the membership of each standing specialization committee. Under the faculty’s guidance, a student is expected to work out a program of graduate seminars, directed reading courses, and research experiences that prepare the student for examination in the chosen two areas of specialization. The primary areas of specialization offered in the department are as follows:

1. Criminology and Sociolegal Studies
2. Social Psychology
3. Gender Studies
4. Organizations and Institutions
5. Political Economy and Global Social Change
6. Race and Class Inequality
7. Sociological Theory and Evolutionary Sociology

A student’s program must include at least one academic quarter of classroom teaching experience at the college level. A student must complete three courses in a primary specialization area and two courses in a secondary specialization area (see the Graduate Student Handbook on the department’s website for the course requirements and options for each specialization) with a grade of “B” or better in each course. In addition, students are required to take one course outside their two areas of specialization and at least one course (or the equivalent. 4 units) of advanced methods with a grade of “B” or better in each course.

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination The dissertation is normally completed within one year after advancement to candidacy. After the dissertation is prepared according to the rules and format of the Graduate Division and signed and approved by a student’s dissertation committee, an oral defense of the dissertation is held. The defense may be waived in exceptional circumstances. The dissertation must be filed electronically with the Graduate Division.

Requirements

• The nonrefundable $100.00 application fee ($125.00 for M.B.A./M.P.Ac./M.Fin./Flex M.B.A. applicants only) must be paid by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, or Discover) prior to submission of your application.
• Applicants are required to submit an official copy of transcripts and degree certificates (in original language accompanied by certified English translations) from each academic institution attended after secondary school. These records should be sent directly from the Registrars Office of the academic institutions you have attended to the academic department to which you are applying. If this service is not available, applicants may also request official copies and send them in the institutions' original sealed and certified institution envelopes. Official records are original documents issued by the institution which bear the actual signature of the registrar in ink and the original wet ink stamp/seal of the issuing institution. The institution envelope must also bear that institution's appropriate authenticity indicator (original wet ink stamp and/or signature, etc.) from the appropriate department at that institution to consider the provided certified transcripts and degree certificates provided by the institution as official. Notarized documents are not acceptable. Credential evaluations by WES (World Education Services) or similar credential evaluation services are also not acceptable.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal History Statement
• Graduate programs require three (3) letters of recommendation. Applicants will be able to enter their recommenders' information directly into their electronic application. Recommenders will be notified electronically and provided instructions on how to submit a letter online. All letters of recommendation must be received electronically so they are attached to the applicants file for review.
• The GRE general test is required of all applicants with the exceptions noted below. Some programs also require applicants submit scores from the Subject Test of the GRE. Consult the program to which you are applying for its requirements. Although current scores are preferred, some graduate programs will accept scores from tests taken within the last five years. 
• All applicants whose first language is not English and who have not earned an advanced degree at an institution where English is the exclusive language of instruction must submit scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). This exam is administered by the Educational Testing Service and offered in nearly every country abroad. This exam must be taken within two years of the time you intend to enroll at UCR. The minimum acceptable scores are: 550 for the written exam; 213 for the computer-based exam, and 80 for the internet-based exam (iBT). We strongly advise you to be aware of the deadline for the program to which you are applying. Dates and information for TOEFL may be obtained by contacting the Educational Testing Service (ETS) at the address below, by calling 1-877-863-3546, or by consulting the TOEFL Web site. Fellowship applicants should take the exam in time to meet the program deadline. Keep in mind that it may take up to two weeks for test scores to reach us from ETS.
• Beginning with the Fall 2011 application cycle, UCR will accept scores from the Academic Modules of the International English Language Testing System IELTS) which is jointly managed by the British Council, IDP:IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations. The exam must be taken within two years of the time you intend to enroll at UCR. The minimum acceptable scores are: overall band score of 7 with no individual section score less than 6. Please request an official Test Report Form (TRF) of your IELTS. 

Scholarships

• Dissertation Research Grant
• Fellowships
• Teaching and Research Assistantships

The Sociology program at the University of California offers students a comprehensive foundation in the study of society, social behavior, and social institutions. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of social structures, social change, and the methods used to study social phenomena. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, including race and ethnicity, gender, class, social inequality, social policy, and global social issues. The program emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and research methodologies, preparing graduates for careers in research, public policy, social services, and education, as well as further academic pursuits.

Undergraduate students can choose from a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Sociology, which typically involves completing a set of core courses in social theory, research methods, and sociological analysis, along with electives that allow specialization in specific areas such as criminology, environment, health, or urban studies. The program encourages interdisciplinary approaches and provides opportunities for students to engage in community-based research and internships. Graduate students can pursue master's and doctoral degrees, engaging in advanced research and contributing original insights to the field.

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty members involved in cutting-edge research, and a vibrant academic community that fosters diversity of thought and experience. Students are supported through advising, research opportunities, and access to various academic resources. The program aims to develop socially conscious graduates equipped with a broad perspective on societal issues, analytical skills, and research competence necessary for leadership roles in various sectors. Graduates from the Sociology program at the University of California have gone on to successful careers in academia, government, non-profits, and the private sector, making meaningful contributions to understanding and improving social conditions locally and globally.