Sociology (MA/MS)
Gain critical insights into social dynamics, inequality and cultural influences to address the modern world’s pressing challenges.
- Offered 100% Online.
- 2 years
- 30 credit hours
- Non-thesis only
- No foreign language credits required
Tackle Global Social Challenges with Confidence
How can you transform your understanding of society into real-world change? This core question guides your studies with a master’s in sociology as you explore human behavior, social structures and cultural dynamics. You'll critically examine issues like inequality and social justice, gaining the skills to address these challenges. With a blend of theory and practical application, you'll be ready to make a meaningful impact in research, policy and advocacy.
$500/Semester Quick Start Grant
You may be eligible for this renewable $250 or $500 grant if you are a new student starting your master’s degree program in Summer 2026, Fall 2026 and Spring 2027.
What Are My Job Opportunities?
A master’s in sociology opens career paths in social research, policy analysis, community development, social work and nonprofit or government sectors. It also provides a foundation for further academic study or teaching opportunities.
Career Possibilities
Current Median Salaries from US DOL Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2023
Program Details
Our program provides advanced training in sociological theory, research methods, and social issues, preparing you for careers in research, policy and community development.
What Will I Learn?
You will have the opportunity to gain experience in a number of key areas.
Sociological Theory
Deep dive into classical and contemporary sociological theories to understand social structures and behaviors.
Research Methods
Mastery of qualitative and quantitative research methods, including data analysis and statistical tools.
Social Inequality
Analysis of social stratification and inequality based on class, race, gender and other factors.
Applied Sociology
Practical application of sociological research to address real-world problems in communities, social services and policy.
Taking Classes
You have the freedom to create a schedule that works best for you while still engaging in high-quality coursework.
Online
Our fully online master’s degree program is specifically designed to meet the needs of both working professionals and full-time students. This format ensures you receive a comprehensive, flexible and enriching educational experience, no matter where you are.
For an up-to-date list of current course offerings, please check the schedule of classes, which is subject to change.
Curriculum
Our fully online program requires 30 semester hours, focusing on sociological theory, research methods, data analysis, and report writing to develop strong analytical and research abilities. Completion of a Comprehensive Exam is part of the curriculum. The program supports preparation for diverse professional paths in higher education, public service, nonprofits and further study.
Adding Value with Certificates
Add value to your degree by earning a graduate certificate and enhancing your career prospects in the field of sociology.
Criminal Justice Management Graduate Certificate
This certificate is designed to attract student practitioners seeking to advance within the decision-making and leadership roles within their field. The courses in this plan focus on management and policy issues. This certificate is ideal for you if you wish to specialize in management issues, such as evaluating, planning, organizing, staffing, directing, coordinating, reporting and budgeting.
Criminal Justice Studies Graduate Certificate
If you are seeking to gain general knowledge in the field, whether you are new to concepts in criminal justice or are currently working in the criminal justice field, this might be the best fit for you. The flexibility of this certificate allows for a great deal of latitude in customizing courses to suit individual professional interests.
Public History Graduate Certificate
This certificate helps you develop specific skills related to public history. The practical, theoretical and analytical training provided in the certificate program will enhance your ability to compete for jobs in museums, historical societies, cultural resource centers, parks and historic preservation.
Women’s and Gender Studies Graduate Certificate and Minor
The Graduate Minor and Graduate Certificate in Gender Studies provide the opportunity for students to focus on the interdisciplinary study of issues that shape and define our understandings of masculinity, femininity and sexuality. The study of gender enhances knowledge of the global world historically and across cultures.
Finding My Community
We believe that education thrives in an environment where collaboration, support, and mutual respect flourish. Our community of students and professors embodies these values, creating an enriching and dynamic atmosphere for learning and growth. Our students come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wide range of experiences and perspectives to the table. Our professors are not only experts in their respective fields but also dedicated mentors who are committed to guiding and nurturing the next generation of scholars.
Nicole Farris, Ph.D.
Faculty
Zachary Palmer, Ph.D.
Faculty
Student Organizations
East Texas A&M proudly hosts the Alpha Kappa Delta International Honors Society and the Sociology and Criminal Justice Society (SACS). Both organizations are designed to advance scholarship, foster integrity and professionalism, and promote the growth of its members. Joining a student organization opens doors to networking, presenting at conferences and more.
I’m Looking For Something Different
Is this program close, but still not right for you? Check out our related degrees!
Financing My Future
Financial Aid
Financial aid includes a variety of programs, like scholarships, federal and state grants, and federal and state work-study programs. Find out how you may be eligible for scholarships, grants, loans and/or a graduate assistantship. Financial Aid and Scholarships
On-Campus Employment Opportunities
Enhance your expertise through on-campus employment opportunities.
Graduate Assistant/Research/Teaching
Graduate assistant teaching (GAT), graduate assistant research (GAR), and graduate assistant non-teaching (GANT) assistantships at East Texas A&M offer financial support and professional development for graduate students. Assistantships are available in academic and non-academic departments.
Cost Before Financial Aid
East Texas A&M is one of the most affordable colleges around the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Our tuition rates are some of the most competitive in Texas.
$3,669
for Texas residents
/
$7,341
For non-residents
Tuition and fees for graduate students taking nine credit hours are $3,669 for Texas residents and $7,341 for non-residents. But don’t worry: there are
Additional Fees May Apply
- Online Courses ($50 per hour)
- Remote Locations ($20 per hour)
- Lab Fees ($5 – $30 per course)
How Do I Get Started?
If you have not already done so, complete the Request Information form. You will be connected with your enrollment specialist, who can answer your questions. When you’re ready, go ahead and follow the steps below to apply.
Admissions Requirements
To be considered for admission, you must first meet the following criteria.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Admission Process
Note: This program is not currently available to International students.
Deadlines
- Fall admission consideration: May 10
- Spring admission consideration: October 15
- Create an ApplyTexas account or login if you already have one
- Complete your profile section first once you log into your account
- Select “School Search” and select East Texas A&M
- Choose the semester you wish to begin
- Pay the $50 application fee.
Wait to receive an application confirmation email before proceeding to the next step.
- Within two business days of your application, the Graduate School will send a confirmation email to the personal email account you used for ApplyTexas.
Submit the following documents after you receive an application confirmation email.
- Upload your documents at myLeo > Apps > Check Admissions Application Status & Test Scores or email your documents to your graduate coordinator unless otherwise specified below.
Your Graduate Coordinator
Domestic Transcripts
Contact your previous institution(s) and request that they send your official transcripts to your Graduate Student Services Coordinator. We accept transcripts officially via email (directly from the institution), through Parchment, and any other official transcript providing agency. If your university does not offer an electronic transcript service, you may request them to be sent via regular mail to:
East Texas A&M University
Attn: Graduate School
2600 S. Neal St.
Commerce, Texas 75428
If your degree is from East Texas A&M University, you do not have to order a transcript. We will access your transcript.
If we already have your transcript, we will reuse it for a new application as long as it is still on file.
International transcripts
WES ICAP evaluations will be required for certain countries; those are listed below:
- Transcripts/Degrees from universities in Nigeria
- Transcripts/Degrees from universities in China that do not come from CSSD (formerly CHESICC)
- Any country where the official transcript is not in English
For all other countries, an evaluation is not initially required. Original official transcripts are required for admission consideration.
Please know that upon receipt of your official transcript, the Graduate School reserves the right to require an external evaluation at that time.
Contact your previous institution(s) and request that they send your official transcripts to:
East Texas A&M University
Attn: Graduate School
2600 S. Neal St.
Commerce, Texas 75428
We will need official/original documents.
If those documents are the only copies you have, the Graduate School can mail them back to you upon request. Contact your graduate coordinator for more information.
Answer these prompts in 500-1000 words:
- Why do you want to study that particular area? “I am interested in these types of theories because…”
- What do you hope this degree leads to?
- What are your short-term and long-term goals?
- Why are you a good fit for our university?
Submit a resume or curriculum vitae (CV) which includes your academic and professional history and achievements.
Submit an academic piece on any topic that demonstrates your ability to write at a graduate level (no more than 10 pages).
Request one reference contact, from a professional who can attest to your goals and ability to succeed in the program. That individual should:
- Email the letter to your graduate coordinator or
- Send the letter to you. Then, you will utilize the upload system: myLeo > Apps > Check Admissions Application Status & Test Scores
Look for application updates in myLeo > Apps > Check Application Status
- Once an admission decision has been made, you will receive an email to your student email account at myLeo > Apps > Leomail.
- Apply for scholarships and graduate assistantships once you are admitted.
- Apply for financial aid by submitting a FAFSA and sending it to school code 003565.
- Contact your financial aid advisor with any questions.
Once registration opens and you are eligible to enroll, your graduate enrollment specialist will contact you to complete registration.
- View your degree plan in DegreeWorks.
- To register for classes, go to myLeo > Student Resources > Registration Menu.
Contact your graduate enrollment specialist if you have any questions regarding your degree plan and registration.
Your Graduate Enrollment Specialist
I Still Have Questions
We are here to help! Send us an email. We can answer your questions and assist you in the application process.
Contact the Department
- Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice
- 903.886.5332
- 903.886.5330
- P.O. Box 3011
- Commerce, TX 75429-3011