M.S. in Applied Sociology -- Required Courses

Explores the strengths and weaknesses of the paradigms (interrelated epistemological, theoretical, and methodological ideas) that shape sociological practice. Emphasizes classic and contemporary paradigms rooted in empiricism, materialism, and subjective idealism. Encourages students to pursue integrative approaches to the formulation, execution, and evaluation of interventions.

SOC 532 Methods of Research: Survey and Experimental Design (3)

Places emphasis on positivist approaches to social research processes in applied settings. Applies hypothesis construction, research design, and data collection and data analysis to needs assessment and evaluation requirements of organizations. Utilizes the Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) to construct and analyze real world databases. Prerequisite: Undergraduate Statistics with a B- or better.

SOC 533 Methods of Research: Statistical Analysis (3)

Reviews causal logic and uses descriptive statistics, cross-tabulation and regression analysis, as well as other relevant inferential statistical techniques, to analyze social data with emphasis upon program outcome and evaluation data. Examines the significance of the requisite assumptions and interpretation of findings for specific statistical techniques. Relies on computer based analysis using SPSS. Prerequisite: SOC 532.

SOC 595 Practicum in Sociology (3)

Integrates academic and practical experience during one semester placement in an appropriate social service, criminal justice, or work-related community setting. Involves execution of a social practice project, negotiated among student, staff, and placement supervisor. This requirement is waived if the student has appropriate experience in a practice setting.

SOC 597 Seminar in Applied Sociology (3)

Supports completion of a viable independent scholarly project. Students will work with an advisor to design, develop, conduct, and present an independent scholarly project for review and approval. A two-semester sequence allows students to develop their independent scholarly work from start to finish within a structured context. Students are required to take this two-semester course sequentially fall/spring and with instructor's permission. Grade of B or better required. At least 21 credit hours toward the degree including SOC 510, SOC 532, SOC 533 and a grade of B or higher in SOC 532.

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SOC 598 Independent Project Supervision (1-3)

Supports completion of a viable project. Students must work with an advisor to develop an acceptable project proposal, to implement that proposal, and to evaluate its result. Students will be asked to maintain on-going enrollment in project supervision by signing up for one credit each semester. A maximum of 3 credits will count for degree credit.

(OR)

SOC 599 Thesis (1-3)

Supports completion of a viable thesis. Students must work with an advisor to develop an acceptable thesis proposal, to implement the thesis proposal, and to evaluate its effectiveness. Students will be asked to maintain on-going enrollment in thesis supervision by signing up for at least one credit after the first semester of enrollment. A maximum of three credits count toward the degree.