The Master of Arts (MA) program trains students in the theoretical approaches, research designs, and analytical skills central to the field of Sociology. It provides extensive background and knowledge valuable for a number of rewarding careers in the public and private sectors. The program also builds a strong foundation in sociological training for those who plan to pursue a doctoral degree in Sociology.
Students have the option of completing the master's degree in one of two ways:
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Coursework (the preferred option for those proceeding to the PhD).
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Coursework plus research paper.
Students can take the program on a part-time or full-time basis.
MA Program (Coursework Option)
Minimum Admission Requirements
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Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Sociology's additional admission requirements stated below.
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An appropriate bachelor's degree with 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) in sociology, with an overall B+ average in each of the last two years of post-secondary education. Those with excellent grades but whose preparation is insufficient will be required to take additional courses.
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Applicants are also expected to have acquired basic research and statistical skills.
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Admission decisions are based on grades and indications of superior qualifications such as letters of recommendation and a sample of the applicant's work.
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In addition to the School of Graduate Studies' online application form, applicants must submit:
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Two letters of reference from instructors or research supervisors.
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A paper, including summary, which the student feels represents his or her best work.
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A one-page, single-spaced typed statement of interest indicating research interests, research experience, and reasons for applying to study sociology at the University of Toronto.
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Proficiency in the English language, demonstrated by all applicants educated outside Canada whose primary language is not English. See General Regulations section 4.3 English-Language Proficiency for minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language and TWE (Test of Written English) scores required.
Completion Requirements
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Coursework: this is the preferred option for those proceeding to the PhD. Students must successfully complete a total of 4.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) or eight half courses including:
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Regardless of option, the MA program is completed in 12 months.
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The choice of courses in all programs must be approved by the department.
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A maximum of 0.5 FCE in reading courses may be counted towards the degree requirements.
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A maximum of 0.5 FCE in elective courses taken outside the department may be counted towards the degree requirements unless approval of the Graduate Coordinator is obtained.
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Students must maintain a B average to be recommended for the MA degree.
Program Length: 3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS); 15 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time
MA Program (Coursework Plus Research Paper Option)
Minimum Admission Requirements
-
Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Sociology's additional admission requirements stated below.
-
An appropriate bachelor's degree with 5.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) in sociology, with an overall B+ average in each of the last two years of post-secondary education. Those with excellent grades but whose preparation is insufficient will be required to take additional courses.
-
Applicants are also expected to have acquired basic research and statistical skills.
-
Admission decisions are based on grades and indications of superior qualifications such as letters of recommendation and a sample of the applicant's work.
-
In addition to the School of Graduate Studies' online application form, applicants must submit:
-
Two letters of reference from instructors or research supervisors.
-
A paper, including summary, which the student feels represents his or her best work.
-
A one-page, single-spaced typed statement of interest indicating research interests, research experience, and reasons for applying to study sociology at the University of Toronto.
-
-
Proficiency in the English language, demonstrated by all applicants educated outside Canada whose primary language is not English. See General Regulations section 4.3 English-Language Proficiency for minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language and TWE (Test of Written English) scores required.
Completion Requirements
-
Coursework. Students must successfully complete a total of 3.0 full-course equivalents (FCEs) or six half courses including:
-
A research paper.
-
Regardless of option, the MA program is completed in 12 months.
-
The choice of courses in all programs must be approved by the department.
-
A maximum of 0.5 FCE in reading courses may be counted towards the degree requirements.
-
A maximum of 0.5 FCE in elective courses taken outside the department may be counted towards the degree requirements unless approval of the Graduate Coordinator is obtained.
-
Students must maintain a B average to be recommended for the MA degree.
Program Length: 3 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS); 15 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time