M.A. in Sociology

Entry Requirements for postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

Academic Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: Applicants should hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement for postgraduate admission is typically a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0  is required with no individual band score below 6.5.

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): The minimum overall score required is 94.  

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Kent State University accepts the DET, with a minimum score of 120.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum overall score of 65 is required.

Standardized Test Scores:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum overall GRE score of 295 is required.

Kent State University offers a range of scholarships to international students to help them manage the cost of tuition and make their education more affordable. 

1. Global Scholarship: The Global Scholarship is a merit-based award for undergraduate international students. It ranges from $2,000 to $7,500 per year and is renewable based on academic performance. Applicants are automatically considered for this scholarship upon admission.

2. International Freshman Scholarship: This scholarship is designed for first-time, incoming international undergraduate students. It provides awards ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 per year. Students are automatically considered when they apply for admission.

3. International Transfer Student Scholarship: Transfer students from international institutions are eligible for this scholarship, which offers awards from $4,000 to $9,500 per year. The scholarship is based on academic merit, and applicants are considered upon admission.

4. Kent State University Honors College Scholarship: Exceptional international undergraduate students may apply for the Honors College Scholarship. It covers in-state tuition and offers additional funding for research and study abroad opportunities.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Kent State University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships provide a stipend, tuition waiver, and valuable professional experience.

6. Graduate Dean's Award for Excellence: This award is for outstanding international graduate students and covers partial tuition costs. Eligibility and application details vary by department and program.

7. Global Diversity Scholarship: Kent State recognizes the value of diversity on campus. This scholarship, awarded to incoming undergraduate international students, provides $4,000 per year for up to four years.

8. Other Scholarships: Kent State University also offers various department-specific scholarships and awards. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes, so students should check with their academic departments.

9. External Scholarships: International students can explore external scholarship opportunities, such as government scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international organizations' funding programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Kent State University offers a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Sociology program that equips graduates with a deep understanding of sociological theories, research methods, and analytical skills. This program prepares students for a wide range of rewarding career opportunities in various sectors. An M.A. in Sociology from Kent State University provides graduates with a versatile skill set that is applicable to a wide range of careers.

1. Academic and Research Positions: Many M.A. in Sociology graduates choose to pursue further academic qualifications and become professors or researchers in universities and colleges. They may contribute to the field by conducting sociological research and publishing their findings.

2. Social Research Analysts: Graduates can work as social research analysts for research organizations, government agencies, or private companies. They collect, analyze, and interpret data to provide insights into various social issues, such as public health, education, and social services.

3. Policy Analysts: Sociologists often find employment as policy analysts, especially in government agencies and non-profit organizations. They research and assess the impact of policies and recommend changes or improvements based on their findings.

4. Market Research Analysts: In the business sector, sociology graduates can work as market research analysts. They study consumer behavior, market trends, and competition to help companies make informed decisions about their products and services.

5. Human Resources Specialists: The skills developed in sociology programs, such as understanding human behavior and social dynamics, are highly relevant to roles in human resources. Graduates can work as HR specialists, focusing on recruitment, employee relations, and organizational development.

6. Non-Profit and Advocacy Organizations: Many non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, and NGOs hire sociologists to address social issues, plan and implement programs, and advocate for change in areas such as poverty, homelessness, and social justice.

7. Criminal Justice and Corrections: Some graduates choose careers in criminal justice, working as probation officers, corrections officers, or crime analysts. They apply sociological principles to understand and address issues within the criminal justice system.

8. Community and Social Services: Graduates can pursue roles in community organizations and social services agencies, where they may work as counselors, case managers, or program directors, helping individuals and communities access essential services.

9. Data Analysis and Evaluation: Many industries require professionals who can analyze and interpret data effectively. Sociology graduates can excel in data analysis and program evaluation roles, ensuring that organizations make data-driven decisions.

10. Public Relations and Communications: Understanding social dynamics and cultural factors is crucial in public relations and communication roles. Sociology graduates can work in PR firms, helping clients manage their public image and navigate social issues.

11. Consulting: Sociologists with expertise in research and analysis can become consultants, offering their insights to organizations seeking to address complex social challenges or improve their operations.

12. Healthcare and Social Work: Some graduates choose to specialize in medical sociology or social work, working in healthcare settings or as clinical social workers to address patients' psychological and social needs.