How to Apply
Applications and general graduate admission information are available in the Graduate Studies Bulletin and at the Graduate Admissions Web site. A $40 fee ($60 for non-Massachusetts residents) must accompany the application. All applications are sent to the Office of Graduate Admissions; when all materials have been submitted, they are sent to the Graduate Program in Applied Sociology for review.
Admission Requirements
1. A strong undergraduate record in sociology and related subjects, with at least a 3.0 GPA in sociology and related course work; applicants with an overall GPA of at least 3.0 will be preferred and those below 2.7 will not be considered. Applicants who do not hold a BA in sociology should have at least 18 semester credits or the equivalent in undergraduate sociology or another social science field related to program objectives.
2. Successful completion of undergraduate courses in sociological theory, research methodology, and statistics. Candidates admitted to the program who are deficient in any of these areas may be required to complete these undergraduate courses not later than the end of the second semester of residence in the program. In some cases a course with a strong theoretical component can be accepted as satisfying the theory prerequisite.
3. A statement of approximately 1,200 words on academic and career interests in applied sociology, including the applicant’s desired area of specialization in the program.
4. A written sample from coursework in sociology or a related discipline.
5. Results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
6. Three letters of recommendation from individuals acquainted with the applicant's interests who are qualified to evaluate his or her potential for sustained graduate study in applied sociology. At least one of the letters must be from a faculty member with whom the applicant is studying or has studied.
7. International students: Applicants from countries where English is not the primary language are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A Declaration and Certification of Finances form must also be completed. International students should see the Graduate Admissions web site for additional instructions. The University International Student Services Office hosts a student orientation and a mandatory workshop on immigration regulations each term.
Transferring Courses Into the Applied Sociology Program
Before enrollment in the program, students should consult with the graduate program director regarding transfer credits or UMass Boston undergraduate credits if these are intended to satisfy degree requirements. Please note: only two graduate courses can be transferred into the program.
Students may obtain and satisfy degree credits by concentrating in course work in selected other graduate programs. In particular, full-time students in the MA Program in Applied Sociology may pursue a course of study leading to a certificate in gerontology or dispute resolution. Please note: Enrollment in these areas is contingent on approval of the respective program directors.
Graduate Assistantships and Financial Aid
We offer a limited number of graduate assistantships to support teaching, research, and administrative needs. Most graduate assistants work 5 or 10 hours per week during the semester(s) they are supported, although occasionally a student may receive a 15- or 20-hour assistantship. Assistants receive a stipend in addition to tuition remission and partial fee payment. Teaching assistants are expected to complete the program’s seminar on teaching.