Master of Science in Sociology

Saint Louis University's Master of Science in Sociology provides students with the analytic and administrative skills to advance in leadership positions in the public, private and government sectors. The program is distinctive in its blend of academic and practical skills. Combining outstanding scholarship and practical experience, SLU's sociology faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research and bring this expertise to the classroom to enrich the educational experience of students. Interdisciplinary faculty from sociology and public policy teach courses, integrating the theory, practical experience and empirical skills needed in 21st-century organizations. SLU's M.S. in sociology degree requires a total of 30 credits of graduate study with a minimum of 24 credits of coursework. The M.S. can be completed either through a thesis or non-thesis track. The thesis track includes up to six thesis credits while the non-thesis track includes six additional credits of coursework. Through teaching, research and service, sociology students at SLU examine different ways people relate to one another through the organization of society and how it influences lives. SLU's M.S. degree in sociology trains students to identify and document insights into these social processes and structures in their careers. Students explore large- and small-scale organizations, families, beliefs and social classes with opportunities for hands-on experience. Graduates will be able to critically assess sociological literature and sociological theories. Graduates will be able to appropriately apply major research methodologies utilized in sociology. Graduates will be able to apply the sociological imagination to the study of social issues in a broader societal context.  Graduates will be able to clearly articulate scholarly research activity, for professional and/or general audiences, in written, oral or visual formats. Graduates will be able to evidence scholarly and/or professional ethical integrity in their research of social issues. 

Career Path 

Graduate career path includes Teaching Assistant Supervisor, Community Education Program Coordinator, Curriculum Developer (Social Sciences Programs),Academic Advisor (Humanities/Social Sciences Focus), Secondary School Teacher (Advanced Social Studies), Scientific Journal Editor (Sociology Focus), Policy Analyst (Social Policy Focus), Research Assistant (Sociology/Interdisciplinary Studies), Social Services Program Coordinator, Government Affairs Specialist, Public Information Officer, Cultural Affairs Officer, Public Health Analyst (Social Determinants Focus), Community Development Specialist, NGO Program Coordinator (Community/Development), Legislative Researcher (Social Issues), Human Rights Officer, Advocacy Specialist (Social Justice/Equality), Social Justice Program Director, Global Migration Analyst, Community Outreach Coordinator, International Development Specialist, Corporate Social Responsibility Specialist, Humanitarian Aid Program Specialist.