MA Sociology at University of Hawaii at Manoa

Programme overview

The MA in Sociology (Plan A, thesis) prepares students for positions involving expertise in social research and provides preparatory training for those aspiring to a doctorate, with a foundation in sociological theory, methods and statistics.

Faculty: College of Social Sciences | Department: Sociology | Duration: Minimum 30 credit hours (Plan A thesis) | Study mode: full-time | Location: Honolulu, HI, United States

What you will study

Students complete at least 30 credit hours including one course each in sociological theory, research methodology and social statistics at 400 level or higher, five substantive courses (four at 600 level or higher), and 6 credits of Thesis Research (SOC 700), with a thesis proposal, thesis and final oral examination. All courses must be passed with a B or better.

Career pathways

Positions involving expertise in social research.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Students are admitted only to the Plan A programme; Plan B is offered only in special circumstances. Graduate Division English proficiency (applicants whose native language is not English; programme minimums may be higher): TOEFL iBT 61 (pre-2026 scale) or 3.5 (2026 scale), IELTS Academic 5.5, Duolingo 90.

Domestic applicants: USD 10,400 a year (2026-27). Graduate tuition for 2026-27 based on a typical full-time load of 8 credits per semester (indicative budget figure from the cost of attendance page); excludes fees ($934), housing, food, books and other costs. Hawaii resident rate. Source

International applicants: USD 22,432 a year (2026-27). Graduate tuition for 2026-27 based on a typical full-time load of 8 credits per semester (indicative budget figure from the cost of attendance page); excludes fees ($934), housing, food, books and other costs. Non-resident rate. Source

Graduate applications are accepted for Summer, Fall and Spring terms; Graduate Division begins processing applications from August 1 for the following Fall and Summer semester and from April 1 for the following Spring semester.

All graduate application deadlines are set by the graduate programmes and vary by programme; some programmes set priority deadlines. Most Fall applicants hear a decision by late March/early April and Spring applicants by November/December. Application fees are non-refundable.

Apply through the official page: https://manoa.hawaii.edu/graduate/

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