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Master's Degree in Sociology Online

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Prepare for positive career trajectories and advanced doctoral work in sociology.

Engage in hands-on activities that showcase your analytical, communication and data analysis skills to future employers or doctoral programs. UND's online master's in Sociology is a perfect fit for students with a four-year degree in sociology (or a related social science) looking to advance their careers.

Program type:
Master's Degree
Format:
Online
Est. time to complete:
2 -4 years
Credit hours:
30

Why earn a master's degree in Sociology online?

Graduate Application Deadlines
Fall:
Aug. 1
Spring:
Dec. 1
Summer:
May 1

If you're an international student, refer to the international application process for deadlines.

Through UND's online Sociology master's program, you'll work with skilled faculty to create a program of study that aligns with your professional goals and facilitates concrete skill development. You'll cultivate essential skills including the ability to:

  • Synthesize existing information. 
  • Address research questions using diverse methods. 
  • Analyze data statistically at the multivariate level. 
  • Effectively communicate research in both verbal and written formats.

All courses will incorporate activities that allow you to actively engage in sociological skill development. You'll work individually with professors on research that can lead to publications with professors. This unique aspect of the program ensures that you will acquire theoretical knowledge and gain practical insights, preparing you for success in whichever path you choose.

Customize Your Master’s in Sociology

UND’s online master’s degree in Sociology provides a broad overview of sociological concepts and theories, allowing you to explore various aspects of sociology. Plus, with the nine credits of electives, you can customize your coursework. We will work with you individually to create your own custom course load that aligns with your career goals, including careers across human services, higher education, non-profit organizations, government agencies, criminal justice and more.

UND's Online Sociology Master's Program

  • Explore engaging sociological projects led by highly qualified faculty actively involved in sociological scholarship. 

  • All coursework can be completed 100% online. No campus visit is required.

  • Become involved and discover leadership opportunities in Alpha Kappa Delta, the international honor society for sociology.  

  • Work with faculty to create a program of study that aligns with your professional development goals. 

  • Enhance your professional skills at 60+ free workshops offered through the UND School of Graduate Studies. Our goal is to provide you with the workforce skills and job search strategies to succeed.

  • Study at a Carnegie Doctoral Research Institution ranked #151 by the NSF. Students are an integral part of UND research.

What can I do with a master's degree in Sociology?

5%

Job outlook from 2022-2032.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

98K

Average salary for sociologist's with a master's degree.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

A master's in Sociology opens a wide range of opportunities across various sectors. With a strong demand for these types of careers, you will be able to find a position as a: 

  • Data Analyst: Use statistical methods to analyze and interpret social data for informed decision-making in various industries.
  • Manager: Oversee and coordinate activities, applying sociological insights to enhance team dynamics and performance.
  • Nonprofit Director: Lead and strategize the operations of a nonprofit organization.
  • Nonprofit Program Manager: Develop and manage programs that address social challenges within the nonprofit sector.
  • Program Manager: Plan and execute programs addressing social issues.
  • Research Analyst: Conduct sociological research to provide valuable insights into social phenomena and trends.
  • Research Consultant: Offer expert advice to organizations based on sociological research findings, guiding them in decision-making.
  • Researcher: Explore and contribute to the body of sociological knowledge through original research.
  • Sociology Professor: Educate and inspire the next generation of sociologists, sharing expertise through teaching and mentorship.
  • Sociology Teacher: Educate students at various academic levels, fostering an understanding of sociological concepts and theories.

In addition to these specific roles, a master’s in Sociology offers opportunities in newer emerging fields such as: 

  • Advocacy and Lobbying: Champion social causes and influence policy decisions through effective advocacy and lobbying strategies.
  • Diversity and Inclusion Specialist: Promote equitable environments within organizations.
  • Environmental Sociologist: Study and address the social aspects of environmental issues, contributing to sustainable and socially responsible practices.
  • International Development Specialist: Apply sociological perspectives to international projects and promote cross-cultural understanding.
  • Media and Communications Analyst: Analyze societal trends in media and communications, providing insights into cultural dynamics and public opinion.
  • Public Health Analyst: Apply sociological knowledge to public health initiatives that address social determinants and community well-being.
  • Social Media Analyst: Examine the impact of social media on society.
  • Urban Planner: Incorporate sociological perspectives into urban planning, creating socially inclusive and sustainable communities.

Online Master's in Sociology Courses

SOC 510. Sociological Inquiry. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on the processes by which sociologists perceive, understand, and study social phenomena.

SOC 520. Advanced Research Design. 3 Credits.

This course emphasizes the development of research design skills including survey research. Prerequisite: SOC 323 and SOC 326. S.

SOC 521. Advanced Statistical Methods. 3 Credits.

An in-depth examination and application of the following topics as they relate to survey research in sociology: data processing; quantification and analysis of data; analytical statistical design; and procedures. The student will apply the various analytical statistical methods to available data. Prerequisite: SOC 323 and SOC 326. F.

SOC 540. Seminar in Social Policy. 3 Credits.

An examination of special topics with a focus on social policy. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate school or consent of instructor. F, even years.

SOC 538. Seminar in Social Problems. 3 Credits.

An examination of special topics with a focus on social problems and potential solutions. Prerequisite: Admission to the graduate school or consent of instructor. F, odd years.

SOC 528. Seminar in Research Methods. 3 Credits.

An examination of special topics in the field of research methods. Prerequisite: SOC 323. Repeatable to 6.00 credits. On demand.

How is UND's online master's in Sociology offered?

2#

best online graduate programs

EDsmart

1#

best online college in North Dakota

Forbes

Flexible Online Sociology Master's Classes

With asynchronous classes, you do not attend class at a set time. If you need to balance work, family, and other commitments, this flexible format allows you to learn anywhere at any time.

Depending on your instructor, you’ll learn online through:

  • Lesson modules
  • Streaming video content
  • Virtual libraries
  • Posted lectures
  • Online simulations

There will be times when you interact with your instructor and classmates through online discussion boards, polls, and chat rooms.

Your learning revolves around materials that can be accessed on your own time within a set time frame. However, this is not a self-paced course. You’ll have structure and deadlines.

Top-Tier Online Master's in Sociology

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs.

No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

  • Same degree: All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
  • Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
  • Real interaction: You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
  • Your own academic advisor: As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
  • Free online tutoring: We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
  • Unlimited academic coaching: Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
  • Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
  • 24/7 technical support: UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
  • Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

  • Affordability
  • Student satisfaction (retention rate)
  • Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
  • Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

 

Leaders that Do

Students at UND take chances, seek challenges and become leaders in the community.

Explore More Options

Looking to connect with faculty or learn more about the department and graduate school?

Department Contact
Elizabeth (Liz) Legerski
Graduate Director
P 701.777.4414
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