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Public Sociology M.A.
Public Sociology applies sociological theory and research to address real-world issues and promote positive social change. Our graduate curriculum emphasizes social justice and environmental sustainability while providing advanced training in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Students gain practical and academic expertise through an emphasis in Practicing Sociology—applied community research—or Teaching Sociology, centered on pedagogy and inclusive teaching and learning.
Why this Program
Develop qualitative and quantitative research skills, as well as nuanced knowledge frameworks for analyzing systems, organizations, programs, and policy.
Apply learning in partnership with faculty, community organizations, and the classroom.
Late afternoon and evening course scheduling that accommodates working professionals.
Application Information
Graduate Coordinator: Mary.Virnoche@humboldt.edu
College of Arts, Humanities, & Social Sciences (CAHSS) Recruitment Coordinator: cahss.grad@humboldt.edu
Program Emphases
Students learn cutting-edge pedagogical practices, and receive both hands-on experience and close mentorship. This is great preparation for teaching at a community college, facilitating and leading groups, designing educational materials, or securing a teaching assistantship in a PhD program.
Students develop into well-trained and valuable applied sociologists. They build their skills through classes, a 240-hour placement with a community partner, paid research opportunities, and their thesis/capstone work.
Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Program
Earn your B.A and M.A. in just five years (three years for transfer students) with our Combined Bachelor’s and Master’s Program.
You can complete either a Sociology B.A. or a Criminology & Justice Studies B.A, then continue on to receive a Public Sociology M.A.
Did You Know?
Graduate students are actively involved in faculty research and social action projects, many of which are linked with community organizations and government agencies.
Our program is structured to move students through the program in a timely manner:students finish their degrees within two years.
Careers
Public Sociology M.A. graduates have gone on to work and lead in the nonprofit sector, activist organizations, social service agencies, higher education, and community colleges, and to further study at PhD programs, and much more! Some alumni careers include:
- Community Organizer & Organizing Director, True North Organizing Network
- Director of Advising, Cal Poly Humboldt
- Deputy Director, California Association of Resource Conservation Districts
- Director of Library & Academic Support Center, EOPS & CARE, College of the Redwoods
- Executive Diversity Officer, South Puget Sound Community College
- Harm Reduction Research Analyst, RTI International Program Director of School Based Wellness Center, Humboldt IPA
- Program Director of School Based Wellness Center, Humboldt IPA
- Program Manager, Latino Network
- Senior Victim Advocate, County of Nevada
- Tribal Government Specialist, Bureau of Indian Affairs
College & University Faculty
American University, Cal Poly Humboldt, College of the Redwoods, Kansas City Kansas Community College, Missouri State University, Northern Essex Community College, Rutgers University, San Diego State University, Southern Methodist University, Tulane University, and more.