The Master of Arts in Sociology program at Boston University provides a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of social life. Designed for students seeking to deepen their understanding of social patterns and dynamics, the program equips graduates with the research skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to critically analyze contemporary social issues.
Graduate study in Sociology at Boston University includes both a master's and a PhD program. Building on core knowledge in social theory and in research methods, students specialize in diverse subfields within Sociology. Students pursue original research that contributes to the field, laying a foundation for academic and non-academic careers.
The interests of our students reach from the city of Boston and New England to Europe, Asia, Latin America and Africa. Recent dissertations and current work have explored such topics as gentrification of two Boston neighborhoods and the role that middle-class families with children play in this process, diversity and privilege through the eye of young people growing up in an elite suburban community in Massachusetts, cultivation of refined tastes in US elite food consumption, earthquake risk-driven urban transformations in Istanbul, Turkey and their effect on precarious service workers, transnational aid programs reliance on local labor in Jordan, role of transgender community in Thailand in ushering transnational medical tourism to this country, public health programs to combat non-communicative disease burden in Sierra Leone, war-related volunteer work in contemporary Ukraine, and suppression of religious pluralism in post-Soviet Central Asia.
Degree requirements: To earn a MA in Sociology from Boston University, students typically complete a rigorous course of study. This includes core coursework in sociological theory, research methods (both qualitative and quantitative), and specialized electives aligned with their research interests. The program culminates in a master's thesis that requires original research and a substantial contribution to sociological knowledge.
Learning outcomes: Graduates develop a strong foundation in sociological theory, research methods, and data analysis. They are equipped to conduct independent research, interpret social trends, and effectively communicate findings to diverse audiences. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and a commitment to social justice, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, policy, or other social impact-oriented fields.
The master's program requires eight courses, including ones in theory and in research methods. Students also research and write a master's thesis. The master's degree normally requires one-and-a-half to two years of full-time study.
