BA/MA in Sociology

2 students listening in a sociology class room

The combined Bachelor of Arts/Master of Arts in Sociology is an excellent opportunity for undergraduate students to pursue graduate education in sociology on an accelerated timeline. BA/MA students complete nine graduate credits as part of their undergraduate studies, which count toward both degrees. They are eligible for the Grad2Grad tuition benefit, and can work as graduate instructional assistants.

Students in the BA/MA in Sociology program must earn a B or better in all graduate courses and complete the required graduate thesis.

Application Requirements

1. Apply directly to the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS), [email protected].

Send all material (see below) in one email to [email protected] with an appropriate subject line. If possible, please combine all the documents in a PDF with the exception of the Combined Degree Application Form.
- Please note the specific instructions for the letters of recommendation.
An online application in the GWU Student Portal is not required.
You do not need to complete the GRE nor do you need to pay an application fee.
You are encouraged but not required to meet with the DGS for further information and to discuss your application.

2. Submit the following materials to the DGS:

Statement of purpose

Your statement of purpose should be a well-written document of about 250-400 words that explains why you want to get an MA in Sociology or Criminology. Discuss how you would benefit from the Master’s (e.g. research, career aspirations), how you would contribute to our program, and any aspect of our department (e.g. classes, faculty research interests) that meet your goals. Note other background and accomplishments if relevant (e.g. collegiate, professional, and community activities). Avoid key life moment ‘stories’ unless they help to explain your goals.

Letters of recommendation

Three letters of recommendations from professors whose class(es) you have taken; two of these should be from Sociology Department courses. A fourth letter from a non-academic source, e.g. athletic coach or employer, is optional.
Letters are sent directly from the recommender to the DGS at [email protected]. Candidates do not see these letters.

Writing sample

Choose a well-written example of your writing, preferably relating to your current major and/or intended masters.. Course papers are appropriate, as are other genres

Resume Unofficial undergraduate transcript(s) Combined degree application form

Complete the Combined Degree Appliction form, including with the signature of Sociology’s Director of Undergraduate Studies (DUS), Dr. Daina Eglitis ([email protected]). If admitted, the DGS will forward the form to CCAS Graduate Studies (Phillips Hall, Suite 215, [email protected]), and that office will email you an admission letter. If denied, the DGS will notify you by email and include [email protected].

Course Requirements

Students take nine graduate credits as part of their undergraduate program. All requirements for both the BA in Sociology and the MA in Sociology must be fulfilled.