Program Requirements
The course-based MA program in sociology is an intensive 12 to 18 months of study. Required coursework consists of 24 units, including core courses in social theory, research design, research methods and statistics, SOC 900 , and completion of the mandatory ethics training requirement.
Students identify a Supervisor who will direct their work to complete SOC 900 . The project includes (i) a critical appraisal of the literature and formulation of a research topic in the subject area of interest; and (ii) a research project proposal which demonstrates the student’s ability to work in a scholarly manner.
The supervisor recruits a second reader to review and confirm a pass or fail for the SOC 900 project.
Thesis MA programs require registration in a combination of coursework and thesis research comprising a minimum of 18 units, and completion of the mandatory ethics training requirement. For the thesis MA in sociology, coursework consists of at least 18 units, including core courses in theory, research design, methods and statistics.
For the thesis MA in demography, coursework consists of at least 18 units, including core courses in statistics, methods, theory, and research design.
Candidates will be examined orally on their completed thesis.
The MA in criminal justice program is designed for students who are pursuing a career in one of the components of the criminal justice system. The program requires 24 units at the graduate-level, plus a project equivalent to 3 units, and completion of the mandatory ethics training requirement. Depending on the student’s background, two full-time field placements of four months each may be required. Coursework must include SOC 525 and an additional 9 units in criminology. Coursework in related disciplines is encouraged.
The minimum period of residence for the MA thesis degree in sociology (except for the Criminal Justice program) is two four-month terms of full-time attendance at the University of Alberta.
Length of Program
The time required to complete an MA program will vary according to the previous education of the applicant and the nature of the research undertaken. Normally, the course-based MA degree will be completed in two or three terms, the thesis MA (normally through full-time study) in four to six terms and the MA in criminal justice (normally through part-time study) within four years.