Applied and Public Sociology

Our M.A. program is aimed at providing you with professional skills valued in public and private sectors, especially if you are interested in criminal justice, health and gerontology and community and social justice fields.

As a student earning an M.A. in applied and public sociology, you will use the concepts and theories of sociology, appropriate methodology and a sensitivity to the policy process to connect sociological knowledge with concrete social/economic outcomes for community stakeholders. You'll learn to engage community stakeholders–including neighborhood groups and grassroots organizations, public organizations and private businesses–with the aim of stimulating informed public dialogue.

You'll also employ social science theory and methodology to address public issues in the community, finding ways to expand your scope of orientation by translating theory and research into practical applications and policies accessible to the general public.

Research & the Community 

At the heart of the program is research that extends into the community. As such, you'll apply empirical methods, collect and analyze information and interpret sociological literature to help shape research goals and policy decisions in the public and private sector.

To prepare for a career in the field, you'll master job-related and community-impact skills in such areas as qualitative and quantitative research, problem solving, community engagement, social policies and trends and oral and written communication skills aimed at disseminating knowledge for academic and public audiences.

You'll also engage in practical field experiences for reflexive outcomes in the private/public sectors. These field experiences will include internships, off-campus practicums working with a practitioner research with faculty, and service to the community through individual or class projects.