Many factors are considered when selecting the best sociology graduate school. These considerations differ for each student, so they should obtain individualized advice from experts like their undergrad professors. In general, some of the things students might consider when choosing a sociology graduate school include the types of degrees offered, admission requirements, departmental focus, school reputation, cost and convenience of attendance.
A reason to consult with professors and perform individual research is due to the individual nature, college background, and skills of each person. College professors well acquainted with a student have a good sense of which sociology graduate school choices will be the best fit. It’s helpful to cultivate excellent relationships with professors during undergraduate study so advice can be easily obtained. Some students pursue graduate studies years after earning an undergraduate degree, and while they might be able to consult former professors, they may instead need to research schools to decide which programs are the best.
Sociology graduate school programs can offer students the choice of master’s and doctoral degrees. Many possible careers need a master’s degree, and it is easier to earn than a doctorate. The PhD opens greater employment opportunities and is generally required if people want top jobs in the field, or work in academia. The doctorate takes longer, from four to seven years, and doctoral programs are usually more competitive than master’s programs. If students can’t decide, they might start with a master’s degree and many other colleges may accept units earned at the master’s level, which can shorten doctoral studies.
Any program considered should be evaluated on the basis of its admission requirements. While all students might want to attend a graduate school in the top ten rankings, this isn’t always realistic. Applicants should look at major, grade, testing and other requirements to gauge likelihood of being accepted. In the end, the best school is the one that will admit the student.
Faculty and departmental focus is another area of consideration. Ideally, the best sociology graduate school has a focus that matches student interest or that is so general, any interest of the student will be supported. A good way to determine focus is by reading faculty biographies and looking at class listings. Departmental web pages or publications can also reveal a lot about program emphasis.
School reputation and accreditation are additional factors to evaluate. Reputation can be partly weighed by success of graduates. Finding out how easily graduates find work and in what fields speaks to the way the professional community views the school. Accreditation should always be verified, especially in non-traditionally structured schools, like those online.
Many students want scheduling options like online or part-time programs, and this is one way to evaluate the best sociology graduate school. Sometimes "best" means most flexible. Cost is another important factor. Some schools have work or stipend funding, but in master’s programs, student loans are the most common funding sources. Students desirous of minimizing expenses might search for schools with low fees or generous stipend or scholarship programs.
