We offer the following graduate programs:

• Master of Arts (MA) – Course and Major Research Paper Option 6 courses plus a 40–60 page research paper. This option is designed to be completed in 1 year of full-time study.
• Master of Arts (MA) – Thesis Option 5 courses plus a thesis. This option typically takes 2 years to complete.
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) 5 courses plus a dissertation. Normally completed in 4 years of full-time study.

For more information, see: www.mun.ca/soc/home

Applicants must meet the following departmental requirements:

• A Second Class Upper undergraduate degree or equivalent
• A minimum GPA of 75% (B+ average)
• Prior coursework in sociology, particularly in social theory and research methods
• A research statement (for MA) or research proposal (for PhD) that clearly explains:
  • What you plan to study
  • Why this research matters
  • Where, how, and with whom you will conduct your research

Applications must be submitted through the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) online portal.

In addition to the standard SGS requirements, the Sociology Department requires:

• A strong statement of research interest (MA) or full research proposal (PhD)
• An academic writing sample (required for all applicants)

The departmental deadline is February 1 of the year you intend to begin your program. All materials must be submitted and complete by this date. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

The general SGS minimum requirements are:

• A GPA of 68 (approximately 68%)
• A degree from a recognized post-secondary institution

Although we review and consider all applications, please note that the Department of Sociology rarely admits applicants below a minimum of 75%.

Yes. All applicants must submit a clearly written and detailed research statement or proposal. This should include:

• Your research questions and area of focus
• The groups, communities, or sites involved (if applicable)
• Your intended research methods
• Where the research will be conducted
• The potential contribution of your research to the field

No, a confirmed supervisor is not required at the time of application. However:

• You should consult our faculty profiles to identify potential supervisors whose research aligns with your proposed topic.
• We recommend contacting only one faculty member at a time to request feedback on your proposal.
• A faculty member’s advice does not guarantee supervision. However, we do not admit students unless supervision is available and appropriate.

Applications are reviewed by the department’s Graduate Admissions Committee. We evaluate:

• Academic background in sociology (especially theory and methods)
• GPA (normally 75% or higher)
• Letters of reference
• A clear, well-developed research statement or proposal
• Fit with faculty research expertise
• An academic writing sample (required for all applicants)

Memorial University provides baseline funding packages to all academically eligible PhD students, with amounts varying based on availability and academic eligibility. However, baseline funding alone is not sufficient to cover the cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador. Students are strongly encouraged to seek additional financial support, including internal and external scholarships, research assistantships, and teaching-related opportunities. For current information on tuition, fees, and other funding opportunities, visit the School of Graduate Studies Fees and Funding page.

Admissions decisions are typically made by April of the application year.