Overview
Our Master’s program in Sociology provides students with critical training in research methods and sociological theories. Together with the M.A. in Criminology, the Masters graduate program has three thematic clusters: Culture and Community, Migration and Population, and Crime and Justice. Students may pursue an M.A. through either a thesis or course work option.
With innovative course offerings and faculty engaged in diverse research projects, our program provides a unique opportunity to pursue research on critical issues of our era. A Master’s degree prepares students for work in research settings including community-based or market research, work in public policy in government or non-governmental organizations, and work in the private sector in areas relating to human resources, equity and community development. It also provides a solid foundation for pursuing research interests through a PhD program.
Application & Admissions
For admission to the MA program in Sociology or Criminology, applicants must hold an Honours degree in Sociology or Criminology (respectively), or a related discipline from a recognized university, or a 4-year equivalent college degree. The minimum cumulative average in the final two years of study (full-time equivalent) of the 4-year undergraduate degree must be 77%.
Possession of the minimum academic requirements does not ensure acceptance. Applicants will be assessed with respect to their academic qualifications, achievements, and letters of recommendation. The specifics of the application process are outlined below.
All applications must be received by February 1st for consideration for the following September (Fall term) admission.
Applicants who have completed and paid for their application through IApply, but have not yet submitted it in full via UWinsite Student – Graduate Application System may still have their application considered after the February 1st deadline, provided space and funding are available.
All supporting documents and reference letters must be submitted for the application to be considered complete and ready for review.
Applications and supporting documents are completed online through the new electronic Graduate Application System (UWinsite Student – Graduate Application System).
Application information can be found on the Graduate Studies website.
Applications must include (all documents are submitted online through UWinsite Student – Graduate Application System:
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, which must include the institution's grading scale (unofficial transcripts in PDF format will be uploaded to your application in UWinsite Student – Graduate Application System, however official transcripts sent directly from the institution(s) will be required upon acceptance into the program);
- Letter from the applicant indicating a statement of interest or plan of study (normally a page or two);
- Note: If applying to Thesis stream, students are encouraged to identify one (1) or more members of the department's graduate faculty with whom they would like to work.
- Two academic Referee Assessment Forms (referees will receive an automatic email notification to complete the forms electronically once the applicant submits the application);
- A resume or CV;
- Program Stream Option Form (Word. doc format) (this form is required for your application)
- English language proficiency score, if applicable.
The Graduate Committee will review all applications. Ranking of all applicants will be based on the committee's assessment of the quality of their application and the availability of graduate faculty to advise, supervise, and provide funding for research training in conjunction with their own research projects and the diversity of subject areas represented in the applicant pool. If you have a B+/A- average (GPA 78% or better) we strongly encourage you to apply. Successful applicants will receive an official letter of admission from the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
For more detailed information on admission requirements and application procedures please see the Faculty of Graduate Studies Future Students website.
