Training in mathematics is encouraged. A student must demonstrate competence in social theory. 230.643 Sociological Analysis is a seminar designed to acquaint the student with how sociologists deal with important theoretical issues, using a variety of methods and sources of data. It must be passed with a grade of B- or higher. In addition to the core curriculum outlined above, nine elective courses are required, up to four of which may be taken outside the department.
Elective courses allow students to tailor the curriculum to their personal needs.
Students ideally will take advantage of the opportunity to become acquainted with the range of expertise and research styles represented on the faculty while also studying intensively in areas of personal interest. The student must show competence in one foreign language in which a substantial body of sociological research has been published. French, Spanish, and German are common choices, but others are also eligible. Competence is normally demonstrated by a written test based on translations from the relevant language into English. The University requires a minimum of two semesters of full-time residence.