The curriculum is intended both to acquaint students with the discipline of sociology and provide training in fields of special interest. Of the 14 required courses, six must be in the core courses in sociological theory, statistics, and research methods. Students are given ample opportunity to specialize but the faculty believes that specialization must be preceded by a thorough grounding in a wide range of classical and contemporary theories and proficiency in social statistics and a variety of research methods. The curriculum permits and faculty encourage study in related disciplines. Between 6 and 10 new students enroll each year.
Preference is given to applicants who intend to complete the Ph.D. degree.
GRE Sociology Subject TEST scores are not required. Although an undergraduate concentration in sociology is not a prerequisite, students applying for admission are advised to have taken undergraduate courses in the social sciences and statistics. A personal interview is not required. Applicants, however, should feel free to send questions by email to the Director of Graduate Studies or any member of the faculty specializing in research topics in which the applicant may have an interest. The department can also help coordinate campus visits.